Merge PDF in Google Drive

May 8, 2025 8 min read

Google Drive is a widely used cloud storage and collaboration platform, allowing users to store, share, and access files from anywhere. As workflows become increasingly digital, the need to manipulate and manage PDF documents within Google Drive has grown significantly. One common task is merging multiple PDFs into a single document for improved organization and streamlined sharing. BreezePDF provides a convenient and secure solution for merging PDFs directly within your browser, offering an alternative to other methods.

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Why Merge PDFs in Google Drive?

Merging PDFs offers several key advantages for users working within the Google Drive ecosystem. Consolidating multiple documents into a single PDF enhances organization, making it easier to locate and manage related information. Instead of juggling several files, you can keep everything in one place, which improves efficiency and reduces clutter. Check out how BreezePDF works with PDFs, including the features to add an editable text box to PDF documents.

Simplifying sharing and collaboration is another significant benefit of merging PDFs. Instead of sending multiple files to colleagues or clients, you can share a single, cohesive document. This streamlines the review process, reduces confusion, and improves overall communication. You can also use BreezePDF to add fillable fields to PDFs online, further enhancing collaboration.

Archiving and storage efficiency are also important considerations. By merging related PDFs, you can reduce the number of individual files stored in Google Drive. This simplifies archiving, makes it easier to back up important documents, and helps optimize storage space. Using merged PDFs makes managing a high volume of documents simpler and more streamlined.

Methods to Merge PDFs in Google Drive

While Google Drive doesn't offer a native PDF merging feature, there are several workarounds. These include using add-ons, leveraging Google Docs for images, or utilizing Google Apps Script. Each method has its own set of steps and limitations.

Method 1: Using PDF Merge and Split Add-on

  1. Install PDF Merge and Split: Navigate to the Google Workspace Marketplace and install the "PDF Merge and Split" add-on.
  2. Select PDF Files: In Google Drive, select the PDF files you want to merge.
  3. Open with Add-on: Right-click on the selected files and choose "Open with" followed by "PDF Merge and Split."
  4. Create PDF Function: Within the add-on, use the "Create PDF" function to prepare the files for merging.
  5. Merge PDFs: Click the "Merge PDF" button to combine the selected files into a single document.
  6. Save or Download: Save the merged PDF back to Google Drive or download it to your computer.

Method 2: Using Google Docs (for Images)

  1. Upload Images: Upload the image files you want to combine into Google Drive.
  2. Create a Google Doc: Create a new Google Docs document.
  3. Insert Images: Insert the uploaded images into the Google Docs document in the desired order.
  4. Download as PDF: Download the Google Docs document as a PDF file.

Method 3: Google App Scripts

Google App Scripts allows you to automate tasks within Google Drive using JavaScript. While powerful, this method requires coding knowledge.

Note: Providing the complete code snippets is beyond the scope, but generally involves these steps: authentication, mounting the Google Drive, finding the relevant files, and moving them to a new merged file within the drive.

Limitations of Google Drive Native PDF Merging

These methods, while functional, have limitations. The add-on method can be slow and inefficient, particularly with large files. Security concerns may also arise when using third-party add-ons. Consider the privacy of your documents when granting access to these extensions.

File size limitations can also be a problem, especially when dealing with high-resolution PDFs. Some methods may struggle to handle large files, leading to errors or slow processing times. The image method using Google Docs is only relevant for merging images, and does not work for merging PDFs. Moreover, you can use BreezePDF for all of your other document management tasks such as how to create fillable PDF Adobe.

Google App Scripts can be complex and requires programming knowledge to implement. It's not a user-friendly solution for individuals without coding experience. This makes it a less accessible option for many users.

BreezePDF: A Better Solution for Merging PDFs

BreezePDF offers a more efficient, secure, and user-friendly alternative for merging PDFs. As an online tool, BreezePDF eliminates the need for software downloads or installations. Simply access the tool in your browser and start merging your PDFs immediately.

BreezePDF is designed for ease of use, with an intuitive interface that makes merging PDFs a breeze. Its accessibility is across devices, and with the drag-and-drop functionality, you can quickly upload and arrange your files. Our security features, including TLS encryption and automatic deletion of files after processing, ensure the confidentiality of your data. BreezePDF is 100% private, meaning your documents are never sent to a server.

BreezePDF is compatible across devices, including Mac, Windows, Linux, and mobile. Whether you're working on a desktop computer, laptop, or smartphone, you can easily merge PDFs using BreezePDF. Preview and organization features, such as thumbnails and page rearranging, allow you to fine-tune your merged document before downloading.

How to Merge PDFs Using BreezePDF: A Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Access the Tool: Go to the BreezePDF Merge PDF tool.
  2. Upload Files: Upload your PDF files by dragging and dropping them into the designated area or by selecting files from your computer.
  3. Arrange and Rotate: Arrange the pages in the desired order and rotate them as needed.
  4. Complete and Download: Click the "Merge" button to combine the PDFs, and then download the merged PDF to your device.
  5. Save to Google Drive: You can then save to Google Drive or share with others.

Addressing Common Questions

Users often have questions regarding file formats, file size, and offline options when merging PDFs.

  • Supported File Formats: BreezePDF supports various file formats for merging, including PDF, Word, Excel, JPG, and PNG.
  • Merging PDF and JPG Files: You can easily merge PDF and JPG files using BreezePDF.
  • Reducing the Size of a Merged PDF: BreezePDF often optimizes the merged PDF to reduce file size without compromising quality.
  • Offline PDF Merging Options: BreezePDF requires an internet connection to function, as it's a browser-based tool. However, third-party offline software options are available if you prefer to work offline.

Conclusion

While there are several methods for merging PDFs in Google Drive, BreezePDF offers a superior solution in terms of ease of use, security, and versatility. BreezePDF provides a more streamlined experience than using Google Drive native merging.

BreezePDF's online platform requires no downloads and offers advanced features, making it the ideal choice for merging PDFs quickly and securely. Its accessibility across devices and robust security measures provide additional peace of mind. Check out BreezePDF and you will see the benefits of not having to create fillable forms in Docusign and just doing it all from your browser.

Experience the convenience and security of BreezePDF for all your PDF merging needs. Try BreezePDF today and simplify your document management workflow!