Embedded Files
Exporting a packaged design from Adobe InDesign ensures all necessary components of your design are organized and included (fonts, images, links, etc.) for sharing or printing. Follow these steps:
Check for Errors
Check for Errors
Open your InDesign document.
Go to Window > Output > Preflight to open the Preflight Panel.
Verify there are no errors (e.g., missing fonts, links, overset text). If there are errors, fix them before packaging.
Access the Package Option
Access the Package Option
Go to File > Package.
In the Package Summary dialog box, review the details:
Fonts used
Linked graphics and images
Colors and inks
Print settings
If everything is correct, click Package.
Save the Package
Save the Package
In the Create Package Folder dialog:
Choose a destination folder for your package (e.g., your desktop or project folder).
Name the folder appropriately.
Check these options:
Copy Fonts: Ensures all fonts used in the document are included.
Copy Linked Graphics: Includes all external files linked to the document.
Update Graphic Links in Package: Updates paths to linked graphics in the package folder.
Include IDML: Exports an InDesign Markup Language file for compatibility with older InDesign versions.
Include PDF (Print): Generates a print-ready PDF version.
Click Package.
Handle the Font Licensing Warning
Handle the Font Licensing Warning
If prompted, acknowledge the warning about font licensing. Fonts packaged are intended only for the recipient to view or print your design.
Verify the Packaged Folder
Verify the Packaged Folder
Navigate to the folder where you saved the package. It should contain:
The InDesign file (.indd)
A folder of Links (images, graphics)
A folder of Document Fonts
Optional PDF and IDML files
Share the Package
Share the Package
Compress (zip) the package folder to keep it intact.
Share the compressed file via email, cloud storage, or a file-sharing service.
When to Package Files in InDesign
When to Package Files in InDesign
Packaging files is essential when sharing your InDesign project to ensure that all necessary elements are included. You should package files in the following situations:
Sending the File to a Printer
Sending the File to a Printer
Some printers require the InDesign file, fonts, and linked images to ensure accurate output and adjustments if needed.
Packaging ensures that all fonts and images used in the document are available for the printer.
Sharing the File with a Collaborator
Sharing the File with a Collaborator
If you’re working with someone who needs to open and edit the InDesign file, packaging includes all the assets they need (e.g., fonts, images, and links).
Archiving a Project
Archiving a Project
When storing a completed project for future use, packaging ensures you have all the assets in one place, avoiding missing files later due to folder reorganizations or deletions.
Working Across Different Devices
Working Across Different Devices
If you’re switching devices, packaging ensures that all necessary components are included and accessible on the new device.
Preparing for Compatibility with Older InDesign Versions
Preparing for Compatibility with Older InDesign Versions
Packaging includes an IDML file, allowing collaborators or clients with older versions of InDesign to open the project.
Protecting Against Missing Links or Fonts
Protecting Against Missing Links or Fonts
Packaging prevents errors like missing fonts or broken links when a document is moved to another system or shared externally.
Last updated by Abigail Green - November 2024
Page updated
Report abuse