How to Send Large Files with WeTransfer
WeTransfer lets you send large files by uploading them at wetransfer.com, entering the recipient's email address, and sending. The recipient gets a download link by email, and you don't need to create an account for the basic flow. This works well for one-off transfers where you just need to get files to someone quickly, rather than for ongoing file storage or collaboration.
What you need before you start
- A browser with JavaScript enabled. WeTransfer's site requires JavaScript to load its main interface; if it's disabled or blocked by a firewall or proxy, you'll see an error page instead of the upload screen.
- The files you want to send, ready on your device.
- The recipient's email address.
- A stable connection, since uploads depend on your upload speed rather than download speed.
Step-by-step: sending files
1. Open wetransfer.com
Go to wetransfer.com in your browser. The site loads a transfer interface where you choose between sending files and other options. If the page shows an error instead of the upload area, check that JavaScript is enabled and that your firewall, proxy, or browser settings aren't blocking parts of the site.
2. Add your files
Select the option to send files, then add the items you want to transfer. You can typically add multiple files or a folder in one transfer, so group related files together rather than sending several separate transfers.
3. Enter the recipient's email and your own
Fill in the recipient's email address so they receive the download link. You'll also provide your own email address so the service can confirm the transfer and notify you when the files are downloaded.
4. Send the transfer
Confirm and send. WeTransfer uploads your files and then emails the recipient a link to download them. The upload has to finish before the link is delivered, so larger files take longer.
5. Recipient downloads
The recipient opens the email and clicks the download link. Depending on the transfer, the link stays available for a limited period, after which the files are removed. If they need the files later, they should download and save them rather than relying on the link.
What to expect and common snags
| Situation | What happens / what to do |
|---|---|
| Page shows an error instead of the upload screen | JavaScript is likely disabled or blocked. Enable JavaScript and check firewall/proxy settings. |
| Upload seems stuck | Large files take time; upload speed limits how fast it finishes. |
| Recipient didn't get the email | Ask them to check spam, and confirm you entered the address correctly. |
| Link no longer works | Transfers expire after a set period. Send a new transfer. |
When WeTransfer is the right choice
Use it when you need to send a large file or a batch of files to someone once, without setting up an account or shared storage. It's less suited to situations where you need the files to stay available indefinitely, where you need version history, or where you're collaborating on the same files repeatedly — for those, a shared drive or cloud storage folder fits better.
The key limitation to plan around is expiry: treat a WeTransfer link as temporary, and make sure the recipient downloads the files before the link lapses.