Need to send an extra big file to somebody? Well, if you’re like a lot of people, you’ve got a bit of a dilemma.

Can you email something that big? Well, maybe not. For example, Gmail has a maximum email size of 25MB, and that’s only internally to Gmail. So, if you’re on Gmail and the person you’re sending to isn’t, they might have a different limitation and the file still might not get through.

Plus, sending huge files as attachments also risks pissing off the receiving party. If they’re not expecting a big file, they might think something is seriously messed up when it takes a lot longer than usual to get their email. Especially if they’re not using a web-based service.

So, how are we going to do it?

#1 – DropSend

DropSend allows you to email files up to 2 GB using your existing email account. Basically, you’re sending the email via Dropsend, but you can still enter your own return address, message, etc.

The service is free for up to 5 files per month. After that, you pay for more sends as well as some online storage space to keep the files.

#2 – Dropbox

If you don’t yet have a Dropbox account, get one. It is insanely useful. But, in terms of transferring files, you’ve got a couple of ways you can do it…

First, if the person you’re sending the file to has a Dropbox account, then you can simply share the file with them. It will then simply upload the file to THEIR Dropbox account and you don’t even have to fudge around with email. Yay.

OR… you can upload the file to your public folder on you Dropbox account. Then, right-click on the file and copy the public access link to your clipboard. Open an email and paste the link. In this case, you’re not emailing them a file… you’re emailing them a link to the file. And they can just download it from Dropbox.

#3 – Box.Net

Pretty much a Dropbox alternative. Works pretty much the same way.

#4 – Use One Of The Integrated Web-Based Storage Options

They work just like Dropbox, but they’re more tightly integrated with web-based email. Namely, SkyDrive and Google Drive.

If you’re a Gmail user, you can send files directly from your Google Drive and you’re not limited by the typical attachment limitations.

And, if you’re on HotMail, you can do the same thing using SkyDrive.

Sending a new message in Gmail

#5 – WeTransfer

WeTransfer works all in-browser. It is like a sexier version of DropSend. You can send up to 2GB files and you don’t have to register for anything.

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As you can see, the way to email large files is not to email large files. In other words, don’t use attachments. Use one of the many online storage solutions out there, then just email a link.

Or bypass email altogether and just share files internally.

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