How to Reduce the File Size of Your Elevation Certificates

Introduction

Managing the file size of Elevation Certificates (ECs) is crucial for faster uploads, sharing, and streamlined compliance processes. Large files, particularly those with high-resolution images, can slow down processing times. Follow these techniques to minimize the size of your ECs.

Option 1. Optimize Image Sizes Before Attachment (Recommended)

Reducing the file size of images before attaching them to ECs is recommended as it will preserve all digital signing information. FEMA recommends using images 300kb or less.

For PC:	For Mac:
Navigate to the file on your computer. Right-click the image file and select "Edit" or open the image in an application like Paint. Click on "Resize" and reduce the size of by choosing a smaller percentage or changing the dimensions. "Save As" and choose JPEG.	Open the image in Preview. Select "Tools" from the menu bar, then choose "Adjust Size." Adjust the resolution to 72 dpi and reduce the overall dimensions. Save the file as a JPEG using the "Export" option from the File menu.

Option 2. Re-export the EC file as a PDF

Please note that this option may result in the loss of digital signing information.

For PC:	For Mac:
Open the EC file and choose "Print" and select "Adobe PDF" as the printer. In the printer dialog box, click on "Properties," then choose "High Quality Print." Save the new PDF.	Open the image in Preview. Select "File" from the menu bar, then choose "Export." Select the PDF format and "Reduce File Size" from the "Quartz Filter" menu. Save the new PDF.

Option 3. Use Online Tools for Additional Compression

You may also use online compression tools like Adobe Compress PDF. Please note that these tools vary in quality and may not be used on encrypted PDFs.