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How to use Dropbox Transfer to easily send large files

4 min read

Nov 14, 2024

Person in a creative workspace, surrounded by projects and a laptop, illustrating the need to send large files efficiently.

What is Dropbox Transfer?

Dropbox Transfer is a specialized tool that simplifies the process of sending large files quickly and securely. Whether you're sharing a set of high-resolution images, a video project, or large datasets, Transfer allows you to send files up to 250 GB in size (depending on your plan) to anyone. They don’t even need to have a Dropbox account to receive the files. This makes it an ideal solution for sharing large files with clients, colleagues, or collaborators who might not be Dropbox users.

If you’re still collaborating on your files, create a shareable link instead. That way, recipients can still edit the original files. But if your work is finished, approved, and ready to deliver, use Transfer to send a copy of your files—so your originals stay intact in your Dropbox account.

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The benefits and features of Dropbox Transfer

 

Easy and secure file sharing

One of the key features of Dropbox Transfer is its ease of use. You can drag and drop files directly into the transfer window, and once the file is uploaded, Dropbox generates a secure link that you can share with your recipient.

Depending on your plan, Transfer offers several features that help you control who accesses your files. You can set passwords and expiration dates for the transfer link, ensuring that only authorized users can download the files in a certain timeframe. This is particularly useful for sensitive or time-bound projects, providing peace of mind that your files won't be available indefinitely.

 

Large file capacity

With support for transfers up to 250 GB, Transfer outperforms many traditional file-sharing methods like email, which typically limits attachments to 25 MB. 

This capability is especially useful for professionals in industries such as design, video production, and software development, where project files are often large and complex. It also eliminates the need for compressing files or using multiple third-party services to split and share large datasets.

 

Tracking and managing transfers

Another standout feature of Dropbox Transfer is its ability to track file deliveries. Once you’ve sent a file, you can monitor whether it’s been accessed and downloaded, providing greater visibility into the file-sharing process. For businesses and freelancers working on tight deadlines, this tracking feature can be essential. Knowing exactly when a client or team member has downloaded a file helps keep projects on track and facilitates timely feedback.

 

Professional presentation

In addition to functionality, Transfer allows you to present your files in a polished and professional manner. Depending on your plan, you can customize the transfer page with your company’s logo or branding. This makes the file delivery process a more seamless extension of your business and gives a client a great impression of your professionalism.

How to send large files with Dropbox Transfer

You can create and send transfers wherever you use Dropbox—be it dropbox.com, the desktop app, or the mobile app for iOS and Android.

To create and send a file with Dropbox Transfer on dropbox.com:

  1. Click More in the left sidebar.
  2. Click Transfer from the menu that appears.
  3. Click Create transfer on the right.
  4. Add files to your transfer in one of the following ways:
    1. Drag and drop files from your computer.
    2. Click Upload files.
    3. Click the dropdown next to Upload files.
      1. To choose folders from your computer, select Upload folders.
      2. To choose files or folders from your Dropbox account, select Add from Dropbox.
  5. Click the edit icon (pencil) to rename your transfer if you’d like.
  6. Click the gear icon to set an expiration date or password.
  7. Click Create transfer.
  8. Click Send email or Copy link.

Your recipient(s) will receive a shareable link that they can click to download the file(s) or folder(s) you’ve sent them—and they don’t even need a Dropbox account to do so. After sending a file transfer, you can view and manage your sent transfers on dropbox.com.

Hassle-free delivery for large files with Dropbox Transfer

No more worrying about email file size limits. You can use Dropbox Transfer to deliver final files (up to 250 GB) to your clients and collaborators—even if they don't have a Dropbox account. That makes it easier to send large files to anyone. 

You can also set a password to control access, set expiration dates, receive download notifications, and see who’s viewed your file. Creating a customized download page with a logo and a background image lets you incorporate your brand into your transfer for a professional touch.

So, what are you waiting for? You can create a transfer in just a few clicks—and it doesn’t even use up space in your Dropbox account.

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