How to send large files by email (without size limits)

Need to send files larger than 25MB by email? You’re not alone. Gmail, Outlook, and most email services impose strict attachment limits, making it nearly impossible to email large videos, PSD files, or high-resolution artwork.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to send large files by email and discover 4 proven ways to share big files without email limits—from simple cloud links to secure tools built for creative and packaging workflows.

Whether you’re a designer, marketer, or packaging team member, these methods will help you send large files faster, safer, and without frustration.

Quick answer: how to email large files

If your file is over the email attachment limit, here’s what works best:

1. Upload the file to cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox) and email a share link

2. Use a one-time file transfer service (WeTransfer, Smash) for quick delivery

3. Compress the file into a ZIP (works mainly for documents, not videos or PSDs)

4. Use a secure sharing tool with previews and comments if the file needs review or approval

Below, we’ll break down each option—when to use it, when to avoid it, and what works best in real workflows.

Can I Send Large Files via Email?

Short answer: not directly.

Most email providers cap attachments at around 20–25MB. Anything larger either fails to send or forces workarounds.

Email attachment limits

What this means:
If you’re sending videos, layered PSD/AI files, or folders of assets, email attachments won’t work reliably. Links—not attachments—are the only practical solution.

Why Email Fails for Large Files

Email was never designed for file delivery at scale. Common problems include:

• Bounced emails with no clear error message

• No previews, forcing recipients to download blindly

• Version chaos when files are resent multiple times

• Limited security, once the file leaves your inbox

That’s why even Gmail and Outlook now default to cloud links for larger attachments.

Option 1: Cloud Storage Links (Best Overall)

Uploading files to cloud storage and emailing a share link is the most common and flexible workaround.

Popular options

• Google Drive – 15 GB free, native Gmail integration

• Dropbox – strong sync and version history

• OneDrive – ideal for Microsoft 365 users

• iCloud Drive – convenient for Apple ecosystems

Pros

• No file size limits (often several GB)

• Easy to send via email

• Permission controls (view, edit, download)

Cons

• Folder clutter can cause version confusion

• Links can expire or be overwritten

• Limited preview and annotation for complex artwork

Best for: general file sharing, presentations, internal collaboration
Less ideal for: artwork approvals or print-critical files

Option 2: One-Time File Transfer Tools

For quick, one-off transfers, file transfer services are popular.

Common tools

• WeTransfer – easy, up to 2 GB free

• Smash – unlimited size on free tier

• Send Anywhere – peer-to-peer transfers

Pros

• No account required

• Fast and simple

• Supports large files

Cons

• Links expire (often in 7 days)

• No previews or comments

• No version control or audit trail

Best for: ad-hoc, non-sensitive transfers
Not ideal for: ongoing collaboration or approvals

Option 3: Compress Files with ZIP or RAR

Compressing files can help—but only in specific cases.

When compression works

• Text-heavy documents

• Spreadsheets

• Simple file bundles

When it doesn’t

• Videos

• Images

• PSD, AI, or design files (already compressed)

Pros

• Built into most systems

• Combines multiple files into one

• No external tools required

Cons

• Minimal size reduction for creative files

• No preview or feedback

• Recipients must extract files

Best for: internal sharing, archiving
Rarely effective for: creative or media files

Option 4: Secure Sharing for Creative & Approval Workflows

If your file needs review, feedback, or approval, basic links and transfer tools often fall short.

In these cases, teams benefit from tools that allow:

• Browser-based previews (no downloads)

• Visual comments directly on files

• Version tracking

• Controlled access

Some teams use platforms like Cway’s QuickShare for this type of workflow, while others rely on similar proofing or artwork-sharing tools. The key advantage is context: recipients see the file clearly, comment in one place, and approvals don’t get lost in email threads.

Best for: packaging artwork, design reviews, print-ready files
Overkill for: simple one-time transfers

Use Cway® QuickShare App – Purpose-Built for Creative Teams

If you’re sending artworks, pack graphics, 3D pack shots, or complex visual files—email, cloud drives, or one-time transfers just don't cut it. Enter Cway® QuickShare, app of the Cway® platform—the market leader in artwork management for FMCG and consumer brands in Scandinavia.

QuickShare = Instant, secure, tracked file sharing with visual feedback tools – all browser-based. No sign-up required for recipients.

What Makes QuickShare Different?

1. No File Size Limits

Upload files of any size—from layered Adobe Illustrator files to full 3D pack shots. QuickShare doesn't impose arbitrary limits.

2. Instant Previews in the Viewer

Recipients can view, zoom, and inspect files (including artworks and videos) directly in their browser—no software required.

3. Version Control and Comments

Need feedback? QuickShare ties into the Cway's Viewer, where collaborators can comment directly on the file or compare versions. It's perfect for artwork approvals, design iterations, and marketing collaboration.

4. Brand-Safe and GDPR Compliant

Cway® is enterprise-grade. That means encrypted storage, secure file sharing, and compliance with GDPR and your internal brand guidelines.

5. No Account Needed to Receive

The recipient just clicks the link. No login, no learning curve—just the file.

Real-World Example: Sending Artwork to a Printer

Let’s say your team just finalized a new packaging design for a product launch.

• The artwork file is 1.2 GB.

• It contains Pantone references, dielines, and multiple layers.

• Your printer is waiting.

If you use email? It’ll bounce.
Use cloud storage? The printer might download the wrong version.
Use a file transfer service? They can’t preview the file before downloading.

With Cway's QuickShare App:

• You drag and drop the final file.

• The link is sent.

• The printer opens it, reviews the design in-browser, adds comments, and confirms approval—all in minutes.

No chaos. No zip files. Just clarity.

Security and Speed Matter—Especially for Sensitive Files

Many marketing and packaging teams deal with confidential product launches, brand assets, and regulatory artwork. That means you can’t afford:

• Public links floating around

• Expired or broken file access

• Files sent through unsecured email servers

Cway's QuickShare is built for professional workflows, not consumer use. It gives you:

• Audit logs

• Access tracking

• Controlled sharing environments

Your artwork deserves more than a download button—it needs a system.

Bonus: Combine QuickShare with Cway’s Media Center App

QuickShare is just one part of the Cway ecosystem. For long-term storage, project management, and artwork versioning, your files can flow seamlessly into the Media Center App (DAM)—no duplication needed.

This means:

• All shared files are still tracked and organized.

• You can re-use artwork versions without re-uploading.

• Your file library grows cleanly and efficiently.

Send Big Files the Smart Way

Sending large files shouldn’t be stressful. Whether you're sharing:

• a pack graphic to a supplier,

• a 3D pack shot with marketing,

• or a print-ready file to production,

...you need a fast, secure, and visual way to deliver.

Generic tools might get the job done once. But if you care about brand control, feedback, accuracy, and speed, it’s time to switch to a tool made for you.