Resize pdf in AI so that file is less than 150mb for printing service requirements.

[caroline920]

I have to reduce my file size so that it is 150mb or less in order to upload to the printing service website. I have deleted swatches, duplicate layers, etc and still my file is over 700mb. Ugh! Would greatly appreciate any assistance. 

[Brad @ Roaring Mouse]

When you save out as PDF for the printer, uncheck "Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities".

[Doug A Roberts]

What's in the file?

If you check Audit Space Usage in Acrobat DC, what is taking up that space?

[caroline920]

I did try the optimization on a couple of files and it helped! However, I have one file that has a large amount of "document overhead". I have no idea what that means nor have I been able to find out what that means. Do you know and how would I go about changing it?  Thank you

[Doug A Roberts]

If you discard user data, does that amount change?

[Brad @ Roaring Mouse]

What are your PDF export settings?

The reason I mentioned the "Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities" checkbox, is if that is checked, you're essentially saving a PDF with two parts: the PDF part AND the original full bore Illustrator file along for the ride. The Illustrator side of it can be quite large, especially if you have lots of images, especially embedded images. This can make your PDF huge.

This is why it's important to save a PDF with that option unchecked.

Even trying to optimize this in Acrobat will only gain so much. It's better to do it when the PDF is exported.