How to Send a File Attachment With Gmail

Jonathan Fisher is a CompTIA-certified technologist with more than 10 years of experience writing for publications like TechNorms and Help Desk Geek.

It's easy and efficient to attach a file from your computer and send it in Gmail. Sending multiple files is just as easy, and it works with documents you cannot easily re-create in an email (such as videos, images, and spreadsheets) as well.

Gmail can send files up to 25 MB ​large. For larger files, or if the recipient's email service doesn't allow for files that big, you can use a file sending service instead.

Send a File Attachment With Gmail

To attach a file to an email you send from Gmail:

1. Select Compose to a new email message or create a reply to a message you received.

Select the Attach Files paperclip icon on the message window. An Open dialog box opens.

Select the file or files you want to send and choose Open. The file or files are attached to the email message.

Send Google Drive Attachments in Gmail

If the file or files you want to send in a Gmail message are stored on Google Drive, you have the option of sending them as an attachment or sending a link.

1. Select Compose to a new email message or create a reply to a message you received.

Choose the Google Drive icon on the message window to insert files using Google Drive. A new window opens.

Any files stored in Google Drive can be sent as links. Only files that weren't created using Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, or Forms can be sent as attachments.

Select Insert. Send the message whenever you're ready.

Adding Attachments Quickly by Dragging and Dropping

To add a file to a Gmail message as an attachment using dragging and dropping:

1. Start with a new message.

If you don't see such an area, your browser doesn't support drag-and-drop attachments. See the above instructions for attaching files in Gmail.

Remove a File From a Message You're Sending

To cancel an attachment you added to a message, select the Remove Attachment button next to the undesired file.

Sometimes when you add an attachment, like when dragging an image into the as just described, it will be placed inside the body of the message and not as an attachment. To remove those, just select the item and choose Remove.

Have Gmail Remind You About Attaching Promised Files

If you include the right words in the body of your message, such as: "please find the files attached," Gmail can remind you to attach promised files.

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