SOLIDWORKS Pack and Go: How to Quickly Bundle Your Project Files

Stefan S.

Published:

January 9, 2025

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5 min

Last updated:

When you need to share or archive a SOLIDWORKS project, simply sending a part or assembly file isn’t enough. You also need to include all associated files—like referenced parts, drawings, and appearances. That’s where Pack and Go comes in. It’s the easiest way to gather everything your project depends on into one folder or zip file.

What Is Pack and Go?

Pack and Go is a built-in utility in SOLIDWORKS that collects an entire project’s file structure—including drawings, parts, assemblies, subassemblies, and even decals or design tables—and packages them together. It ensures that when you send the files to someone else or move them to another location, nothing is missing.

When to Use Pack and Go

Sending files to a client or collaborator
Backing up a complete project
Moving a project between computers
Preparing for long-term storage or archive

How to Use Pack and Go in SOLIDWORKS

Open the top-level part, assembly, or drawing you want to package.
Go to File > Pack and Go.
In the Pack and Go dialog:
- Choose whether to include drawings, simulation results, toolbox components, or decals.
- Click the double arrows to see the full list of included files.
Choose the output:
- Save to a folder for easy access and editing
- Save as a zip file for emailing or uploading
Click Save and SOLIDWORKS will copy all files to the selected location.

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Here's quick tutorial:

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Advanced Options

Add prefix or suffix to filenames for tracking versions or edits.
Include suppressed components if you want the entire model structure, even unused parts.
View file references before export to double-check everything is included.

Best Practices

Always use Pack and Go before sending assemblies to avoid broken references.
Store Pack and Go zip files as clean backups of final designs.
Use meaningful prefixes (e.g., project name or date) when sharing across teams.

Wrap-Up

SOLIDWORKS Pack and Go is a must-have tool for anyone working with multi-file projects. It prevents missing references, simplifies collaboration, and ensures your entire design package stays intact. Whether you’re sending a file to a colleague or backing up a finished assembly, Pack and Go gives you a reliable way to keep everything together.

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