Process Large Files with PDF.co and Zapier

Step 1: Understand Zapier and PDF.co Time Limits

Zapier Time Limit:

• Testing/Editor Mode: 30-55 seconds limit.
• Published Mode: 1-minute processing limit in general (45 minutes on latest versions)

PDF.co API Time Limit:

• Up to 45 minutes for file processing in asynchronous mode.

Step 2: Use the Latest Version of PDF.co App

Ensure your Zap is set up with the latest version of PDF.co App on Zapier. The new version supports processing using webhooks.

• In Published Mode (Behind the scenes):
  • The Zap will trigger a request to PDF.co API.

The Zap's status will change to “Delayed” while PDF.co processes the file.

Once processing is complete, PDF.co sends a POST request to Zapier's webhook URL, allowing the workflow to continue.

Step 3: Skip Testing for Large Files in Zapier Editor

When testing in Zapier Editor Mode:

1. Avoid large file processing due to the 30-second limit.
2. Use the "Skip Test" option instead:
   • This outputs sample data from PDF.co’s API.
   • The sample data includes a sample output URL.
   • Use this sample output URL for testing subsequent modules.

Step 4: Special Case: Using PDF.co Document Parser or AI Invoice Parser

Document Parsers often require mapping specific data fields. Here’s how to handle it for large files:

1. Split the PDF File:
   • Use only the first page of the document in Zapier Editor for testing.
   • Process the first page to map the output fields properly.
2. Test Mapping:
   • Verify that the output matches the fields you need.

1. Switch to Full Document Before Publishing:
   • Replace the test input with the full PDF document or invoice file.
   • Publish the Zap. The Published Mode allows up to 45 minutes for processing.

Step 5: Publish the Zap

• Once all testing and mapping are complete:
  1. Publish the Zap.
  2. Monitor the workflow to verify that the full document is processed successfully.