Shared Hosting Email Maximum Message Size Allowed

The maximum message size for email on shared hosting accounts is 20MB (20000KB) per email. This size limit includes the headers, body of the email, any attachments, and the space needed to encode the message. When the mail server encodes the attachment, it can sometimes increase 20-30%, so the actual attachment size can be no more than 15-16MB.

For users that need to transfer files larger than the 15MB limit please use the web space included in your shared hosting account. You can transfer the file to your web space using FTP and allow the recipient to download the files using anonymous FTP. 

Send Files with Web-Based File Sending Platforms

The easiest way to get around the size limitations of e-mail providers and avoid "bounces" is to use one of many Web services that deal with transfer of big files via e-mail. Usually the sender uploads his file using a simple Web client and provides an e-mail address of the recipient. After the file is uploaded, the recipient receives a short message with a download link.

Some providers support unlimited file sizes, although free users are usually only able to send up to 2GB. The file is available for a limited time, after which the download link expires.
  • SendSpace. This simple and popular site features an easy drag&drop uploader. The free user can only send files 300MB large, but Pro account raises the limit to 4GB. The free user uploads stay on the servers for 30 days, and Pro users get an unlimited time. Very large files are handled via friendly uploader application for Windows, Mac OS and Linux.


  • Filemail. Filemail is a popular platform that allows free users to send messages up to 2GB in size without signing in or registration. The file limit for the Pro account is 30GB, and Business users can send files of virtually any size. Filemail features simple upload and download pages without ads or distracting elements. It also offers a mobile application, an API and Thunderbird / Outlook plugins that handle sending big attachments from within the email client.

  • WeTransfer. The clean, inviting homepage of WeTransfer features a simple sending widget with a good help option. The users are able to send up to 2GB of data without registration using a free, ad-supported version. A premium Plus account allows for 5GB transfers, branded download pages, and gives users access to a secure sending channel. Files stay on the servers for 7 days, although Plus account holders can save up to 50GB in the cloud, for as long as they wish.

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