What does eTransmit collect, and what still needs review?
Autodesk's AutoCAD 2025 documentation describes eTransmit collecting reference and support files with drawings and displaying them in Files Tree and Files Table. It also describes transmittal settings such as file organization and drawing conversion. Check your installed edition because interfaces and options may differ.
That collection is a starting point. Review which files are actually selected, what the recipient is entitled to receive and whether project-specific resources outside the package are needed. DWG Conversion is independent and is not affiliated with Autodesk.
Sources: Autodesk: Package Drawings for Transmittal, AutoCAD 2025 documentation
Which checks belong in the acceptance manifest?
Use actual filenames, drawing numbers and revisions. Avoid a manifest that merely says all files included: it gives the recipient no way to identify a missing dependency.
| Check | Manifest entry | Acceptance evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Main drawings | Drawing number, filename and issued revision | Matches the delivery index |
| External references | Expected reference file and path treatment | Resolves in the unpacked delivery |
| Images and underlays | Filename and authorized distribution status | Visible where used in the drawing |
| Plot resources | Approved plot setup and distributable resources | Output compared with issued reference PDF |
| Drawing version | Requested format and conversion setting | Recipient confirms supported version |
| Excluded resources | Filename, reason and replacement instruction | Recipient understands the limitation |
| Reopen check | Delivery folder and review date | No dependence on the source working folder |
How should the clean-folder check be performed?
Keep the original working files unchanged. Produce the transmittal using the agreed settings, then unpack a copy in a separate review folder. Open the delivered main drawings from that folder and review the reference status, layouts, visible underlays and agreed plot output.
Compare a representative electrical sheet with its issued PDF. Review device identifiers, legends, drawing references and sheet extents. A drawing that opens without an error can still show the wrong revision of an external reference.
Illustrative example. A fictional switchboard sheet opens in the delivery folder but its cable schedule still points to a source-drive path. Record that dependency, correct the agreed package settings or file paths, then rebuild and recheck the delivery. Do not declare the first archive accepted because the author's computer could resolve the path.
When should files be withheld or a delivery held?
Do not redistribute fonts, images or third-party resources solely because the tool can collect them. Confirm the applicable permission or license and record an agreed alternative for anything withheld. Do not include unrelated customer drawings or hidden working files.
Binding references or changing drawing versions can alter the delivered structure. Use the recipient's agreed requirements and review the result rather than applying a default to every electrical package.
Close the transmittal with an issue note listing drawing revisions, known limitations and the manifest location. Engineering sign-off remains with the registered engineer on the job; a file-package check does not approve the underlying design.
Common questions
What else should the bid team know?
Does eTransmit replace a drawing review?
No. It packages files; the delivered drawings and references still need review.
Must every reference be bound?
No. Agree the required reference structure with the recipient before choosing package settings.
Should the original working folder be overwritten?
No. Check a delivered copy and preserve the controlled source files.