Carnegie Mellon University

Box File Request

A Box File Request offers a convenient method for collecting content from individuals both inside and outside of CMU. Create a File Request for any folder choosing the File Request option and Box will generate a landing page that individuals can use to upload content. Submitters simply drag and drop their files or collections of files right onto your custom file request page which is accessible even to those without a Box account. Upload files up to 5GB or up to 32GB (depending on account type).

Generating a File Request Link

Follow the steps below to generate a file request link:

  1. Navigate to or create a folder where you would like the submitted files uploaded to.
  2. Click on the ellipses (upper right) and select File Request.
  3. You can copy the link to share, embed the code in your website, or customize what others will see when they visit your File Upload link.
  4. The following options are available:
    • Specify Title - enter a custom title for the submission.
    • Add Instructions - include custom instructions that those uploading should follow.
    • Allow users to add a description - permit custom descriptions per upload.
    • Require users to provide email - require an email address for each submission.
  5. Click Preview to preview the File Upload link. The page wll load, allowing visitors to drag and drop files.

Once files are uploaded, the folder collaborator(s) will be notified based on their own personal notification preferences. This feature works on both Box.org and personal Box folders.

Deactivating a File Request Link

Follow the steps below to deactivate a file request link:

  1. Navigate to the folder that you've linked a file request to.
  2. Click on the ellipses (upper right) and select File Request.
  3. Choose Deactivate to deactivate the File Request link.
  4. Choose Reactivate to reactivate the File Request link.