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How to Send Large PDFs [3 Simple and Effective Methods]

Need to send a big PDF? This guide shows 3 easy ways to do it. Use AnyViewer for quick and safe transfers, compress your files to make them smaller, or split your PDF into parts. Sending large PDFs has never been easier.

By @Ellie Last Updated June 18, 2025

How do I send a PDF file that is too large?

Most PDFs are compact enough to send via email without a hitch, but what happens when the file size pushes past 20MB? That's where things get tricky. Many people struggle with how to send large PDFs because email providers typically cap attachment sizes, making it impossible to send hefty PDF files directly.

Even if your email provider allowed it, sending large PDFs via email is not always the safest method. Email isn't inherently secure; messages in transit and at rest are often unencrypted. So, if your PDF contains private or sensitive details, it could be vulnerable to interception.

Luckily, there are smarter, safer alternatives for sharing oversized PDF files. Here are some of the most reliable methods available today to help you solve the problem of how to send large PDF files easily and securely.

How to send large PDFs [3 ways]

Need to send a large PDF file but keep hitting size limits? Here are three simple and effective ways to get the job done without frustration.

Way 1. Transfer large PDFs remotely using AnyViewer

If you're dealing with oversized PDFs, AnyViewer offers a fast, secure, and user-friendly way to transfer them between computers, with no upload limits and no hassle. It's a remote desktop and file-sharing tool trusted by professionals to share files of any size without compromising security.

Unlike email, AnyViewer uses end-to-end encryption to ensure secure and encrypted file transfers. And thanks to its intuitive interface, even non-tech users can get started in minutes. With no size cap and a streamlined process, it's a top-tier solution for moving large files, perfect if you're looking for a better way than how to send large PDF files via email.

Why AnyViewer Is a Smart Choice:

  • Lightning-fast speed: Transfer files at up to 10 MB/s
  • Multi-thread transfers: Up to 5 concurrent threads
  • No file quantity limits: Send unlimited files at once
  • Massive file support: Share single files up to 1 TB
  • Cross-network compatibility: Works even if devices aren't on the same network
  • User-friendly: Designed for simplicity, no tech skills required

How to Send Large PDFs Using AnyViewer

Step 1. Go to the AnyViewer website. Download and install the app on both computers.

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Step 2. Open the app and create a free account. Log in with the same account on both devices.

Step 3. On the receiving computer, click the Device tab. Find and select the other computer, then click File Transfer.

Step 4. After connecting, find the PDF file and use the arrows to send it. You can also drag and drop files between the two computers.

Way 2. Compress your PDF files before sending

If your PDF is just slightly over the size limit, compression might be all you need. Dozens of reliable online tools are available that can shrink your PDFs quickly and without much hassle.

For files under 50MB, compressing them to meet email attachment limits, like the common 20MB cap, is usually no problem. But if you're frequently working with multiple large PDFs, compressing each one manually can become time-consuming and inefficient.

One of the go-to options for compression is Smallpdf. Their tool allows you to upload several PDFs at once, compress them in bulk, and download the reduced versions, all in just a few clicks.

Compression typically cuts file sizes by 20% to 80%, depending on the content. However, be cautious: heavy compression may lead to a drop in quality. Always double-check the final version to ensure your text remains sharp and images stay clear.

After compressing a PDF, emailing it becomes much easier; you can avoid annoying bounce-back errors caused by exceeding attachment limits. This is a great option if you want to learn how to send large PDF files via email effectively.

Way 3. Break a PDF into smaller segments

If you're using the premium version of Adobe Acrobat DC, you have the option to divide a PDF into smaller, more manageable sections, ideal for sending files separately.

Step 1. Start by launching Adobe Acrobat DC on your computer.

Step 2. Navigate to Tools and choose Organize Pages.

Step 3. From there, upload the PDF you want to split.

Step 4. Click on Split, then decide how many pages each new file should contain. For example, if your PDF has 8 pages and you set it to split every 4 pages, the document will be divided into two files.

Once the split is finished, the new PDF files will appear in the same folder as your original document. This method is useful for those searching for alternate ways of how to send large PDFs in smaller pieces.

Conclusion

If you've been wondering how to send large PDFs without running into file size limits or security concerns, you're not alone, and you're not out of options. From using a reliable tool like AnyViewer for direct transfers, to compressing or splitting files for easier sharing, there are several effective ways to get the job done. Whether you're dealing with a massive report or a detailed eBook, these methods ensure your PDFs reach their destination quickly, safely, and hassle-free.