Safety Checkpoints When Choosing a PDF Merge Tool
Key points
- First check whether files are uploaded to a server
- If they are, look up retention and deletion
- In-browser tools carry less transmission risk
PDFs such as transcripts and résumés contain addresses and birth dates. Before choosing a merge tool, consider these points.
Checkpoints
- Is the file uploaded to a server? An "Upload" button, or processing that takes a while, suggests it is.
- Retention and deletion: for services that upload, how many hours until deletion, and is the method stated?
- Is sign-up or login required? If you must enter an email address, check how your data is handled.
- Are the operator and privacy policy stated? Avoid services without contact information.
What an in-browser tool is
It runs a program inside your browser and merges files without sending them out. This site works that way and needs no registration.
Good habits
- On shared computers, delete saved PDFs when you finish
- Double-check the address when sending the merged PDF
- Delete PDFs you no longer need from your device
Tools that go well with this
- Compress PDF: Shrink a PDF to fit under a size you choose, for upload limits.
- Add Page Numbers to PDF: Add page numbers to a PDF, choosing position and style.
- Extract or Delete PDF Pages: Keep only the pages you need, or remove the pages you don't.
More guides for this tool
- How to Combine Several PDFs into One (Phone and Computer)
- How to Choose the Order When Merging PDFs and Rearrange It Later
- What to Do When a Merged PDF Becomes Too Large
- Why a PDF Can't Be Merged or Shows an Error
- Tips for Combining Job Application Documents into One PDF
- How to Combine Photos and PDFs into One File