Some emails may be too large to send due to size restrictions set by inbox providers (Gmail, Outlook, Apple Mail, etc.). If an email exceeds these limits, it becomes undeliverable.
Why Does This Happen?
Inbox providers set size limits for emails, but these limits vary. Unlike email clipping (where part of the message is hidden behind a "View entire message" link), this issue prevents the email from being sent entirely. The total size includes all text, images, design elements, and underlying code. Even if an email looks visually short, excessive formatting or high-resolution images can push it beyond the limit.
Best Practices to Avoid Clipping
The key to avoiding clipping is to keep your email's HTML size as small as possible. Here are some best practices:
- Keep your email content concise: Avoid unnecessary text and get straight to the point. Shorter emails are less likely to be clipped.
- Optimize images: Large images are a major contributor to email size.
- Compress images: Use image compression tools to reduce file sizes without significantly impacting quality.
- Use appropriate file formats: JPEGs are generally suitable for photographs, while PNGs are better for images with sharp lines and text.
- Resize images before uploading: Don't upload a massive image and then scale it down in your email. Resize it to the actual dimensions it will be displayed at.
- Be mindful of special characters: Certain special characters can add to email size. Use them judiciously.
Design Elements to Prioritize Removing to Reduce Clipping
If you're facing clipping issues, these are the design elements to focus on removing or simplifying:
- Excessive Images: Images are the biggest culprits. Start by optimizing or removing large or unnecessary images.Too many images or high-resolution images can make emails too heavy. Optimize images by reducing file size before uploading.
- Text Length: Long emails with excessive text can contribute to size issues. Consider breaking up lengthy content or linking to full articles.
- Dividers & Design Elements: Several dividers can add unnecessary bulk. Simplify when possible.
By following these best practices and prioritizing the removal of these design elements, you can significantly reduce the chances of your emails being clipped and ensure that your message reaches your audience in its entirety. Remember to always test your emails thoroughly before sending them to your list!