You can send photos and PDF files directly within an existing conversation. One important restriction applies when first making contact: you cannot add an attachment to your first message. The attachment function only becomes available after the other person has replied to your message.
When can I send an attachment?
First, start the conversation with a normal text message. Briefly explain what your enquiry relates to and why you would like to send a photo or PDF file. As soon as the other person has replied, the option to add files using the paperclip icon appears in the conversation.
If you have not yet received a reply, the missing attachment function is therefore not a technical error. First wait for a response. The article How do I send a message to a user and how do I receive messages on suchen.expert? explains how to start a conversation.
Sending a photo or PDF file step by step
If a reply has already been received, proceed as follows:
- Open the ‘Messages’ section in your account.
- Select the conversation in which you wish to send the file.
- Click on the paperclip icon next to the text box.
- Choose whether you want to take a photo or add a photo or PDF file from your gallery or files.
- Before sending, double-check that you have selected the correct file and the correct conversation.
- Send the attachment using the send button.
It’s best to include a short accompanying message. A note such as ‘Here you can see the damaged area on the back’ is more helpful than a file without an explanation. If you’re sending multiple attachments, you can briefly describe what can be seen in each image or in the PDF file.
Which file formats and limits are displayed?
The message view currently lists the following supported formats: .jpg, .jpeg, .png, .tiff, .jfif, .webp, .avif and .pdf. It also displays ‘Max. 12 MB / 4 files’ next to the input field. Therefore, select no more than four files and observe the displayed size limit of 12 MB.
If a file is not accepted, first check the file extension, the size and the number of attachments selected. For very large photos, it often helps to save a smaller version or to select only the images you really need. Do not simply change the file extension manually, as this does not convert the actual file format.
Which attachments are useful when making arrangements?
A good photo can avoid follow-up questions and make a decision easier. For an item being offered, for example, show its general condition and important details. If there are signs of use or a defect, the affected area should be clearly visible. For a service, suitable examples of your work can be helpful, provided you are allowed to show them.
PDF files are suitable for supplementary information that is genuinely needed for the specific arrangement. However, do not send extensive documents merely as a precaution. A clear text message and a few informative images are often sufficient.
Protect personal data before sending
Check every photo and every PDF file carefully. Addresses, number plates, faces or personal belongings may be visible in the background of images. Documents may contain full names, addresses, signatures, customer numbers, bank details or other information that is not required for the arrangement.
Remove or obscure such details before sending. Never send passwords, TANs, confirmation codes, full payment details or copies of ID documents via the messages section. Also, make sure you have selected the correct contact. An attachment that has already been sent may be saved by the recipient.
Open and assess attachments safely
Only open files that are relevant to the current conversation and the advert in question. Ask for clarification if an attachment arrives unexpectedly or the explanation provided is unclear. Be particularly cautious if you are put under time pressure or if a file or link is allegedly required for a payment, registration or account verification.
Where possible, keep questions about the offer, price, handover and documents sent in the message history on suchen.expert. This makes the context easier to follow. Further guidance can be found in the User Communication Guidelines section.
What can I do if sending a file isn’t working?
First, check whether the other person has already replied. Then check the format, size and number of files. Reload the page, reopen the conversation and try sending the files again. If your connection is unstable, it may help to send the attachments one at a time and wait for each one to upload before sending the next.
If the problem persists, use the contact form. State the file format used, the displayed file size and the point at which sending fails. Do not send passwords, access codes or unnecessary personal documents to support.
