To send a file in a Zap, you need to use a file object or certain types of URL links.
File objects are the bundles of data that represent the actual file. This is different from the name of the file or other file attributes. For example, the actual image of an apple is the file object, while the file name might be “apple.jpg”.
If you’re using a URL link to a file, it has to be:
- Publicly-accessible: it can’t require a login to be accessed.
- Downloadable: the app you’re sending it to must be able to upload it to their server.
Some apps will create a text (.txt) file if you enter text values into a field that accepts files.
Limitations
- Some file fields may not accept text.
- Files larger than 100 MB may result in a time out error.
- You can only add 1 file per field. If you need to add additional files, you’ll need to add separate action steps.
TipYou can test your URL link by opening it in a private or incognito browser window. If it prompts you to download a file, the link can be used. If it prompts you to log in to an app, loads directly in the web browser instead of downloading, or results in an error code, the link can’t be used.
1. Check if your previous step provides a file
- If a previous step has a File field with an (Exists but not shown) value, that is a file object.
- If a previous step has an Attachments field, it may have a file object or a URL link to a file that you can use.
2. Add a file to your action step
- If your field accepts files, you will see a file
icon. - Insert your file into the field by selecting it from an earlier step.
If you need additional help using files in Zaps, contact Zapier support.
