All about merging PDF files

All about merging PDF files

If you’reused to working with multiple documents at one time, you’ve likely wondered how to combine PDFs into one document. Despite there being many tools on the market for managing PDFs, it’s not easy to find one that fits your needs exactly. Plus, searching for these tools is exhausting and time-consuming. In this article, we’re going to go over how to deal with this reality by suggesting the best services for you and teaching you how to merge PDFs like a pro.

PDF is an abbreviation for Portable Document Format. It's one of the most commonly used file types in the world. The main reason for its popularity is that PDF is the only format that allows users like you to create documents with fixed layouts and includes various text, fonts, images, vector graphics, links, tables, comments, and almost any other information (except for videos). There are many out there that say that using Microsoft Word and saving DOC/DOCX files is a better alternative, but it’s not the solution for streamlined document management. Need some proof? Keep reading for deeper insight.

Word does make it easier to combine text files because all you have to do is copy information from one file and paste it into another one. However, it only looks simple. In fact, standard formats usually depend on the version of the user's software. If you create a document in Microsoft Word 2019, a recipient with Microsoft Word 2010 will run into some issues with processing the file you sent them. Tables, pictures, and fonts will most likely look broken; some functions won't work, especially if the doc owner forgets to enable the compatibility mode. If you send a Word file to a Mac owner, the number of possible problems only grows.

So, what's the solution to this type of issue? Use Portable Document Format! PDF fixes elements in their places so that the file looks the same on all devices, whether it’s a computer, smartphone, tablet, or any other gadget out there. We’re talking about more than just documents created from scratch. Modern scanners save scanned papers as PDFs by default. However, scanning so many documents individually can become a nightmare when it comes to storing, archiving, and sending. Your recipients will be grateful for you merging PDF files into one document and eliminating unnecessary clutter. Combining PDFs does not harm the resulting file’s quality if a good converter is used, and again, with the right tools, you can always split them back into separate samples.

The advantages that make a PDF combiner worth your hard-earned dollar

Portable Document Format has its own pros and cons (just like anything else in this world). PDFs are primarily used for viewing, not editing, which means having the right tools to combine PDFs and edit them is extremely valuable. Is PDF a format worth having a specialized tool for? Of course. Let's learn more about why.

As we mentioned earlier, the format fixes all elements in their places. Every time a PDF is generated or shared, you don’t have to worry about broken layouts.

With Portable Document Format, you never need to worry about a recipient's software or the type of device they’reusing. It can be easily opened in Windows and macOS, on a computer, and/or on a smartphone or tablet.

PDFs support the inserting of fillable fields and allow users to work with templates without the need to print hard copies, fill anything out by hand, or physically sign. Place the cursor where you want to add your content and click. Plus, some professional services can even automatically export filled information to databases and CRM systems to accelerate data processing.

The only opportunity to reliably certify text documents in Word format is by using digital signatures, however, they aren't so popular because of their complexity. Unlike Word files, PDF files can be easily certified with an electronic signature – any data type that is logically associated with other data in electronic form and can be connected to an individual or entity to show intent to sign and do business electronically. It means that you can draw, type, or upload your very own unique signature to the system and use it for certifying docs.

Portable Document Format has different security layers. To protect your sensitive information or the document as a whole, you can choose various methods of protection: adding passwords and watermarks, electronic signatures, or even digital signatures.

PDFs can be easily compressed without losing quality, making it so that they can be efficiently archived on your hard drive or in the cloud for later use.

Why you should combine PDFs for better document management

If you’re not the most technical person, and you're still wondering if using pdfFiller and Portable Document Format is right for you, we're here to remind you why having a tool that allows you to easily merge PDFs online is in demand in the modern business world.

You already know that PDF is a convenient file format that’s used universally. But in addition to that, it’s ideal for sharing and printing. With that said, here are 5 reasons why you should have a simple solution to combine PDF files for your business.

Picture this, you're starting a new project with your team. Every member is working on their own documents to contribute to the project including contracts, proposals, and various reports that are stored in DIffevent file formats. Keeping files in one folder makes sense but when everything is in different formats it makes collaboration difficult because of platform/software compatibility issues.

Fortunately, there’s a simple solution. Save your files as PDFs and merge them together to create one cohesive document. Keeping your files in a single record that can easily be read and found by your growing team is a big plus for streamlined collaboration.

When it’s time to share documents, you want to be sure to submit a compact file format like PDF to make sending and receiving attachments easier. Large files above 25 MB cannot be sent, creating a lot of headache if you’retrying to email a lot of information. Aside from that though, no one wants to receive an email with a bunch of attachments, and you're bound to attach the wrong file by accident. Thus, yet again to combine PDFs into one document is a great solution.

With your project’s information combined into a single file, you can share, archive, and send it out for review conveniently with confidence.

Merging PDFs is extremely useful to help you stay organized. If you're constantly searching for related documents on your computer, it’s probably time to consider cleaning up your files and combining PDF files into one. This cuts the time you would typically spend simply looking for documents. By organizing your records, you’re also reducing computer clutter, so you can have more space for saving what’s more important.

The number one reason why people and businesses turn to PDF combiners and editors like pdfFiller is to save time. While many starts with trying to edit and combine PDFs manually, they quickly discover just how time-consuming it can be. Files in Portable Document Format are DIfficult to manipulate manually. Tools like pdfFiller help simplify the process. If you're a lawyer for example, who has many documents to manage for a client: receipts, contracts, agreements, etc., you’ll want to merge them into one file before sending them to your client. This will save time for everybody involved and help make your business practices much smoother.

Taking your first steps towards a paperless business is more important than ever. If you're ready to take the plunge, a tool like pdfFiller that can help you combine PDFs. All you have to do is start by converting your paperwork into a digital format. Save your data in a PDF format to ensure all your documents are accessible and secure. Once you’ve done that, merge PDF documents into one file in order to keep everything as organized and compact as possible.

Once you realize that using PDF combiners is a good idea whether they’re online or offline, it’s time to dig a little deeper into what’s actually available to you. Here’s a big tip on choosing the best service. Look at the services’s complete set of capabilities. Do your best to avoid single-functionality software to prevent overpayment and slow, unorganized processes.

We’re a little biased here but pdfFiller is a comprehensive solution for professional document management. Handle any PDF-connected issues from finding forms to editing original content and adding fillable fields in one secure environment.

To begin, create your account on the pdfFiller website. Click the Start Free Trial button and complete a simple registration procedure. After that, you’re ready to merge PDF documents like a professional. Convert your sample into another file format, design your records, and even share them without switching tabs.

Learn how to combine PDF files and merge PDFs by following the guidelines below.

Log in to your newly created account at pdffiller.com and find your Dashboard. From your Dashboard, you have access to a variety of different tabs and features pdfFiller users have available to them. On the left side of the screen, you can see your folders and integrations. Note the Documents tab in the left sidebar. This is where you’ll need to navigate to complete the final step of this guide and merge your samples. On the right side, you can see export and workflow features. At the center of the screen, you can access your recently added or edited documents. Once you're familiar with your Dashboard, head to the next step, and let's start uploading documents.

To begin, click the Add New button in the top-right corner of your screen.

At this stage, you can choose the most suitable importing method:

Once your file is uploaded, it’ll automatically open in your browser. Now, simply hit Done to head back to your Dashboard, where you can upload more files!

If you’ve made it this far, you’ve uploaded your first document, and you can do it again. Click Add New and repeat the previous step as many times as you need to. The objective is to upload all the documents you want to see in your merged PDF file. You can merge two, five, ten samples together! Get creative and organized, and have fun uploading all the essential documents you need. Once all your pieces are uploaded, you're ready for the next step and that much closer to having your files combined into a single PDF.

When all the files you want are uploaded to pdfFiller and available in your Documents folder, you're ready to get your complete file. To start, simply select the samples you want to merge by checking the white box on each file you need.

If all the documents you wish to merge are now selected, you're ready to complete the process. Run your cursor over the More option (you can find it on the gray toolbar) and click Merge. In the pop-up window, check the order of your files and create a name for the new file. After a few seconds, the service will open the merged file and offer you a chance to rearrange the pages in it. If everything is in order, just close the pop-up. If the document still needs to be changed, do your manipulations and click strong>Apply. To exit the editor, select Done in the top right corner of the screen.

Once you've done all the actions above, it’s time to export your file. pdfFiller has several ways you can get your file or send it out. On the Dashboard or in the Documents folder, click on the document once to select it and look at the right sidebar. In the Send To section, you can see options for sending a doc in by email, fax, or USPS. You can also send it to the notary or IRS (applicable for W-2, 1099-MISC, 1099-NEC, or 941 forms). You can save a PDF by clicking Download or export it in another format by clicking Save As.

After that, the process of combining multiple PDFs is complete.

Tips to help you merge PDF documents more efficiently

As we mentioned above, consider finding a service that will be more than just a PDF combiner. Try to utilize a platform where you'll be able to edit files, design them, and convert them to other formats. If you're on this page, you don't have to search too far: pdfFiller is perfect for all your document management needs. So let's learn what you can do in addition to merge PDF files.

Did you mix up the order of your documents while combining multiple PDFs? If you’reusing pdfFiller, that’s not a problem! Open a document and select the Rearrange option from the top of the left sidebar, above the page thumbnails. Next, a pop-up window will open, and you'll be able to drag and drop your pages to change their order. Don't forget to click the orange Apply button to save your changes.

Sometimes, when you merge PDF files, you can accidentally attach unnecessary samples. This issue can be solved in a few clicks too. Open the Rearrange window once again, find the thumbnail of the unnecessary page, select it (or a few by holding down the CMD/CTRL key), and click Delete.

In the same menu, you can also duplicate pages, rotate them, or add new ones.

pdfFiller is better than any other PDF combiner because it supports multiple other features. With the tools from the top toolbar, you can quickly edit original content or add new. Insert new images or shapes. Erase or blackout sensitive information. There’s no need to edit the original file and merge PDF files from the very beginning.

If you’ve combined PDFs into one, you’ll most likely have a large document with many pages. It’s helpful to number them. When you add page numbers, you increase readability and simplify navigation in the doc. In pdfFiller, users can choose the placement of page numbers in the corner or center and choose the format and size.

To add page numbers to your merged PDF file, just open your document, and click on the vertical red Add Watermark panel on the right of your screen. This will open a new menu. Check the Page Numbering box to customize the numbering method. Choose the appropriate format, placement, and adjust the size.

An electronic signature is not actually something new but a must-have feature for modern business tools. It significantly accelerates your document management processes and eliminates the usual routine associated with paperwork. Plus, if you combine PDF documents for filing, you’ll probably have to certify them. pdfFiller assists you with this process and offers the chance for users to design records without printing, scanning, or leaving your home or office.

Let's learn how to combine multiple PDFs into one and design them online without even switching tabs. First, open your sample in pdfFiller. Then, click the Sign tool from the top toolbar, and choose your preferred signing method: typing, drawing, or uploading. Follow the tips in the pop-up to create your unique autograph, select Save and Use, and click on the document where the signature must be. After that, adjust its size and placement if required.

You don’t have to create a new signature every time. pdfFiller can store several at one time, and in the future, you'll be able to place them on documents in a couple of clicks from any device.

'How can I get my files back after combining PDFs?' That's the question pdfFiller users never worry about. They know that they have multiple exporting options. If they need a file in Portable Document Format, all they have to do is just click Download. If they need to use advanced exporting capabilities like using a form with fillable fields, downloading files in DOCX, XLSX, or PPTX formats, they click Save As and indicate these wanted options.

Merge PDFs online and print a new document right from your browser! pdfFiller allows you to send any file for printing from the export menu.

The bottom line

It's not a question of liking Portable Document Format or not liking it. It’s a fact that it’s a globally used format and will remain a necessary file format for businesses of all sizes as well as individuals for years and decades to come. Despite the fact that it’s a convenient file format to create and send, they should also be edited with specialized software. That's why you need an all-in-one solution that helps you edit and combine PDFs with ease and effimainly. Editing documents manually or with single-functionality services is simply too time-consuming and restrictive.

The need to combine PDF files is one of the most common tasks, and you definitely should know how to do it. If you don't want to spend your internal memory installing a heavy program with its own software and hardware requirements, consider using a web-based solution that can be opened from any browser. Among dozens of platforms, pdfFiller is an ideal solution to help you combine PDF documents while offbring various editing tools to allow you to work with this particular file format. If you work with PDF files often, a tool like pdfFiller is the best solution to help you work with ease.

Never wonder how to edit and combine PDF documents again. The solution is right here. Start your free trial now!