How to attach a file to an email in Mailchimp

You’ve probably done it a thousand times: click the little paperclip, add a file, and hit send. Traditional email makes attaching files feel effortless.

However, email marketing platforms—like Mailchimp—play by different rules. There’s no paperclip button. No drag-and-drop. So, how do you send a file?

Let’s start with the obvious question:

Why would you want to attach a file?

This comes up a lot. People want to attach things like:

• PDFs of flyers or brochures
• Lead magnets like guides or checklists
• Event details or printable resources
• Forms, worksheets, or other downloadable docs

In a regular email, that’s no problem. But Mailchimp isn’t built for one-to-one communication—it’s built for sending to groups. That means things work a little differently.

Why Mailchimp doesn’t support traditional attachments

There are a few technical reasons—all rooted in keeping your emails deliverable, secure, and efficient.

1. Attachments raise spam flags

Mass emails with attachments often get flagged by spam filters. Even simple PDFs can trigger them—especially when sending to large lists.

2. Attachments slow things down

Every file increases the size of your email. That can cause issues with:

• Load speed (especially on mobile)
• Email rendering (some clients clip large emails)
• Deliverability (some inboxes reject large emails outright)

3. Attachments carry risk

Files—especially unknown ones—can carry malware. To protect recipients and your sender reputation, platforms like Mailchimp don’t allow direct attachments.

So, how do you send a file through Mailchimp? 

Instead of attaching a file, Mailchimp lets you upload and link to it. That way:

• The file is safely hosted
• The email stays lightweight
• You can track who clicks the link

It’s the same end result: someone receives your email, clicks a link, and downloads the file. You just get there a different (and better) way.

Step-by-step: how to include a file in your Mailchimp email

Here’s how to link a file in your email content using Mailchimp’s “new builder” that launched in 2024:

1. Start a new campaign or edit an existing one

Log into Mailchimp, go to “Campaigns,” and click “Create,” then click “Edit Design.”

2. Pick a template design

Pick whatever starting point strikes your fancy. If you’re not yet on the “new builder” from 2024, click the button that says “Create Email in New Builder.”

3. Select a content block (typically a button)

You can link a file from a text link or a button—whichever fits your design. I’ll assume you’re using a button.

4. Click to edit the button

Click the block to edit, and the options will pop up on the left in a sidebar.

5. Select file and 

Click the “Link to” dropdown menu in the options sidebar and select File. Then click the “Add file” button and the “Upload from device” option.

6. Upload your file

In the file browser, select your file and click the “Open” button. The file must be under 10 MB in size.

7. Finish email and test

Now finish the email, and preview and test your file download.

When to use this approach

Linking to a file works great when you’re:

• Sending a downloadable resource
• Sharing printable materials
• Following up with a lead magnet
• Delivering files without overloading inboxes

Just be sure the file adds value—and the email clarifies what they’re getting.

Need help setting up Mailchimp or creating better-performing emails? Contact us to discuss email marketing. We’d be glad to see if we can help.