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How to Send Large Files with WeTransfer

Tap each step to follow along in order.

  1. Open the WeTransfer website or app

    Go to the WeTransfer website or open the app to get started.

  2. Select the files you want to send

    Tap 'Add your files' and choose the files or folders you want to transfer.

  3. Enter the recipient's and your email address

    Type in the recipient's email address along with your own, so a copy of the transfer confirmation reaches you too.

  4. Tap Transfer to start the upload

    Once you tap 'Transfer,' the upload begins, and when it finishes the recipient receives an email with a download link. Using link mode instead of email mode gets you a shareable link you can paste anywhere.

  5. Why is this useful?

    For files too large to attach to an email, a file-transfer service lets you send a simple download link instead, without needing to create an account first.

When email attachments won't cut it

Most email providers cap attachments at a fairly small size, so once a video, a batch of high-resolution photos, or a design file goes past that limit, attaching it directly just isn't an option. A file-transfer service sidesteps the limit entirely by uploading the file once and handing out a link instead of an attachment.

Email mode vs. link mode

Most of these services offer two ways to send a file: enter the recipient's email address and let the service deliver the download link directly, or generate a shareable link yourself and paste it into a chat app, a text message, or anywhere else. Link mode is handy when the recipient's email address isn't on hand, or when you'd rather send the file through a messaging app instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a size limit on the free plan?

Yes -- free plans typically cap the size of a single transfer, and a paid tier raises that limit substantially, so check the current limit on the service you're using if your file is very large.

How will I know the recipient downloaded the file?

Many transfer services send the sender a notification email once the recipient opens the download link, so you can confirm the file actually arrived without having to ask.