Box File Request gives you enterprise-grade security for collecting documents from anyone. The feature requires a Box Business plan but provides advanced controls perfect for regulated industries.
Select your destination folder
Navigate to the Box folder where you want collected files to appear.
Open the sharing panel
Click the folder to select it, then look for the sharing panel on the right side.
Create the file request
Under File Request, click Create Link.
Enable and configure the link
Toggle the link to Enabled if it isn’t already. Click Edit to access configuration options.
Set security options
Configure based on your security needs:
Add metadata fields
Box lets you collect additional information:
Copy your link
Copy the generated URL and store it in a Tallyfy short text field.
Box provides enterprise-level security options:
Identity verification - Require uploaders to sign in with a Box account (free accounts work). This captures their verified email address with every upload.
Email validation - Even without Box login, you can require uploaders to provide and verify their email address.
Access controls - Your Box administrator can enforce organization-wide policies for all file requests.
Virus scanning - All uploads are automatically scanned before they’re accessible.
When someone accesses your Box file request:
Box’s metadata feature adds powerful capabilities:
Example metadata setup:- Uploader Email: [Required]- Document Type: [Dropdown: Contract, Invoice, Receipt]- Reference Number: [Text field]- Description: [Text area]This metadata appears with the uploaded files, making organization and searching easier.
For simple collection - Store one Box file request link per process and share it in multiple tasks.
For categorized uploads - Create multiple file requests for different document types:
For maximum security - Generate unique file requests for each process instance and set short expiration windows.
Box provides APIs for advanced automation:
Track your active file requests:
Folder organization - Create a clear folder hierarchy that mirrors your process structure.
Naming conventions - Use consistent naming like [Process]-[Date]-[Client] for easy identification.
Regular cleanup - Disable old file request links quarterly to maintain security.
Monitor usage - Review Box’s audit logs to track who’s uploading files.
Business plan required - File requests aren’t available on personal Box accounts.
Single folder destination - Each file request points to one folder (can’t split uploads dynamically).
No conditional logic - Can’t show/hide metadata fields based on previous selections.
For trusted partners with Box accounts:
This approach provides more features but requires Box accounts.
“Access denied” errors - Check if your organization’s admin has restricted file requests.
Missing metadata - Ensure required fields are configured in the file request settings.
Upload failures - Verify file size limits (5 GB default, configurable up to 250 GB).
Link not working - Confirm the link is enabled and hasn’t expired.
Box file requests are included with Business plans but count toward your storage quota. Monitor usage if you’re collecting large files regularly.
Box file requests excel in enterprise environments where security and compliance matter most. The ability to require authentication, collect metadata, and maintain detailed audit trails makes it ideal for regulated industries. While it requires a paid Box plan, the security features justify the investment for sensitive document workflows.
File Request Links > Dropbox file requests
Document Management > File request links
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File Request Links > Google Drive file requests