Sending files across the globe comes with unique challenges. Distance introduces latency, internet infrastructure varies wildly between countries, and some regions have restrictions on data transfer. Here’s how to send large files internationally without the headaches.
Why International Transfers Are Different
When you send files locally, data travels through nearby servers. Send to another continent, and that data crosses undersea cables, passes through multiple networks, and may hit bandwidth bottlenecks along the way.
Common issues:
- Slow upload/download speeds across continents
- Connection timeouts on long transfers
- Restrictions in certain countries
- Time zone coordination challenges
- Unreliable connections in some regions
Use CDN-Backed Services
The biggest improvement for international transfers is using services backed by Content Delivery Networks (CDNs). CDNs have servers worldwide, so files are stored closer to recipients.
How CDNs help:
- You upload to a nearby server
- Files replicate to global edge locations
- Recipients download from their nearest server
- Faster speeds for everyone
Services with strong global CDNs:
- FileGrab (Cloudflare global network)
- Google Drive (Google’s global infrastructure)
- Dropbox (AWS + Cloudflare)
- WeTransfer (AWS global)
Best Practices for International Sharing
1. Choose the Right Time
Upload when your local internet is fastest (usually off-peak hours). Recipients download when their internet is fastest.
2. Compress Wisely
Smaller files transfer faster internationally. Compress what you can:
- ZIP folders of documents
- Reduce video resolution if full quality isn’t essential
- Use efficient image formats (WebP over PNG)
3. Use Resumable Uploads
Connections can drop on long international transfers. Choose services that resume where they left off:
- FileGrab (chunked uploads)
- Dropbox (automatic resume)
- Google Drive (resume support)
4. Consider Time Zones
When sharing with someone 12 hours ahead, they might not see your files until you’re asleep. Use expiration times that account for time zone differences.
5. Test the Connection First
Before sending critical files, test with a small file. Verify the recipient can access and download successfully.
Dealing with Restricted Countries
Some countries block certain file sharing services or restrict data transfer. If your recipient is in a restricted region:
- Use multiple services as backup
- Consider services with local data centers in that region
- Avoid services known to be blocked
- VPNs can help but aren’t always reliable
FileGrab’s Global Advantage
FileGrab runs on Cloudflare’s global edge network with servers in 300+ cities worldwide. Whether your recipient is in Tokyo, Sao Paulo, or London, they’re downloading from a server nearby.
The link-first model also helps internationally:
- Create the link instantly
- Share via email/message
- Upload on your schedule
- Recipient downloads when convenient
No coordination required. No timezone juggling.