This article explains why digital uploads can fail on Etsy, the exact limits and supported types, and how to replace incorrect files without losing your listing.

Etsy limits at a glance

• Files per instant digital listing: up to 5 files
• Max size per file: 20 MB (each)
• Supported file types (direct upload): .bmp, .doc, .gif, .jpeg, .jpg, .mobi, .mov, .mp3, .mpeg, .pdf, .png, .psp, .rtf, .stl, .txt, .zip, .ePUB, .iBook
• File name rules: you can’t rename after upload; max 70 characters; allowed characters are letters, numbers, periods, underscores, and hyphens
• Variations: not supported for digital item listings
• Made-to-order digital orders (sending files later): when completing the order you can attach up to 5 files, 20 MB each
• Revoking access after purchase: canceling the order is the only way to revoke a buyer’s access to a purchased file

Symptoms

• Upload stalls or gets stuck near completion.
• Error about unsupported or invalid file type.
• Upload completes but the buyer can’t open the file.
• The wrong file (e.g., a preview image) is attached to the listing.

Common Causes

• Exceeding limits: more than 5 files, or any file over 20 MB.
• Uploading a format Etsy doesn’t accept directly (for example, .ai, .psd, .brush, .brushset, .sketch). Use a ZIP instead.
• File name violations (too long or disallowed characters) or trying to rename after upload.
• Corrupted files, missing embedded fonts, or unflattened effects causing compatibility issues.
• Choosing the wrong listing type (Physical/Made to Order vs. Instant Digital) which hides the digital upload control.
• Browser problems (extensions interfering, expired session) or unstable connection during large uploads.

Quick Checks Before You Retry

• Count files (must be ≤ 5) and confirm each is ≤ 20 MB.
• Ensure the file type is on Etsy’s supported list. If not, package deliverables in a ZIP.
• Rename files before uploading: keep names short; only letters, numbers, periods, underscores, and hyphens.
• Verify the listing is set to “Digital files” (not Physical) if it’s an instant download.
• Try a modern desktop browser or a private/incognito window with ad blockers/VPNs disabled.

Step-by-Step Fixes

1. Export to a supported buyer-friendly format.
   
   • Printables: PDF (embed/subset fonts), high-resolution JPG or PNG.
   • Cutting files: SVG, PNG; optionally include DXF or EPS inside a ZIP.
   • 3D: STL is supported directly; include a readme with units and scale.
2. Package unsupported or multi-file deliveries in a ZIP.
   Place native/source formats (.ai, .psd, .brushset, etc.) and extras in a ZIP with a README (license, instructions, contact).
3. Reduce file size safely.
   Compress images, flatten transparencies, subset/embed fonts in PDFs, and remove unused layers. For very large bundles, split into multiple ZIPs (remember: max 5 files per listing).
4. Normalize compatibility.
   Export for screen delivery in RGB where appropriate; flatten complex effects that can break across apps; outline or embed fonts.
5. Sanitize file names before uploading.
   Use short names with only letters, numbers, periods, underscores, and hyphens. Example: boho-wedding-invite-set-v1.zip
6. Upload in sequence.
   Large files are more reliable when uploaded one at a time rather than all at once.
7. Refresh your session and browser.
   Sign out/in, clear site data for Etsy, and try another browser or a private window.

Replacing the Wrong File Without Losing the Listing

1. Open Shop Manager and edit the digital listing.
2. Remove the incorrect file from the “Digital files” section.
3. Upload the correct deliverable and save. (You can’t rename files after upload.)
4. If buyers already purchased the wrong file, message them with the corrected file and update your listing files so future buyers receive the right version. If you must revoke access, cancel the order.

Best Practices for Digital Deliverables

• Include a README with usage instructions, license, and contact info.
• Clearly labeled folders inside ZIPs (for example, “Print,” “Cutting,” “Mockups”).
• Consistent versioning in filenames (for example, v1_2) and a brief changelog.
• Offer both vector and raster when relevant, and document intended use (print size, dpi, dimensions).
• Avoid shipping massive source files unless necessary; provide optimized end-user assets.

Troubleshooting FAQ

How big can my files be and how many can I add?

Up to 5 files per listing; each file must be 20 MB or less.

Can I upload native formats like .ai, .psd, or Procreate brushes?

Those aren’t on Etsy’s supported upload list for instant downloads. Put them in a ZIP and include a PDF/PNG/SVG version and a README.

Why do I get a file name error?

File names must be short and simple: letters, numbers, periods, underscores, and hyphens only. Rename the file before uploading; you can’t rename once it’s attached.

Can I offer variations (e.g., different sizes) on a digital listing?

No. Variations aren’t supported for digital item listings. Provide multiple sizes/types inside your ZIP or create separate listings.

I don’t see the upload button.

Make sure the listing type is set to “Digital files.” Selecting “Physical item” or certain made-to-order options will hide the digital upload panel until you change the type.

Summary

Most digital upload problems come down to Etsy’s limits (≤5 files, ≤20 MB each), unsupported direct formats, or file name rules. Export to supported formats, package extras in ZIPs, compress and flatten where needed, keep names clean, and use a stable desktop browser. If you attached the wrong file, replace it in the listing and proactively send the corrected version to any affected buyers; cancel the order only if you need to revoke access.