How to Share AutoCAD File Easily and Securely

To share an AutoCAD file, save it in .dwg format and send it via email or cloud storage. For multiple files or dependencies, use eTransmit to package all related files into a single folder or ZIP file for easy sharing.

Syntax

Sharing an AutoCAD file involves these main steps:

• Save File: Use Save or Save As to create a .dwg file.
• Use eTransmit: Run the eTransmit command to bundle the drawing and all linked files.
• Share: Send the file via email, cloud storage, or file sharing services.

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SAVEAS "filename.dwg"
eTransmit

Example

This example shows how to use the eTransmit command to package your AutoCAD file and its dependencies for sharing.

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1. Open your drawing in AutoCAD.
2. Type eTransmit in the command line and press Enter.
3. In the eTransmit dialog, choose <strong>Transmittal Setups</strong> or create a new one.
4. Select the destination folder or ZIP file option.
5. Click <strong>OK</strong> to create the package.
6. Share the resulting folder or ZIP file via email or cloud.

Output

A ZIP file or folder containing the main drawing and all linked files ready to share.

Common Pitfalls

• Missing linked files: Sharing only the .dwg without external references (Xrefs) causes broken links.
• Large file sizes: Sending large files via email may fail; use cloud storage or compress files.
• Version incompatibility: Ensure the recipient's AutoCAD version supports your file format.

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Wrong way:
Send only the .dwg file without packaging.

Right way:
Use eTransmit to include all dependencies before sharing.

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Notes
1	Save drawing as .dwg	Use Save or Save As command
2	Run eTransmit	Packages drawing and dependencies
3	Choose output (folder or ZIP)	Select based on sharing method
4	Share file	Use email, cloud, or file sharing service
5	Confirm recipient can open file	Check AutoCAD version compatibility

Key Takeaways

Always use eTransmit to package all linked files before sharing.

Save your drawing in .dwg format for compatibility.

Use cloud storage or ZIP files for large drawings.

Confirm the recipient's AutoCAD version supports your file.

Avoid sending incomplete files to prevent broken references.