ai vector file pdf export with nested indd files

[Timo320652679kfd]

Following setup (all apps at most recent 2026 versions):
indd with linked indd including vector ai files. 

when working cross platform (win and mac), the linked indd file needs to be opened and saved once in order for the vector files to export properly (otherwise they'll just export as white rectangles). once with the other platform again, the indd needs to be saved again for proper pdf export. 

[Frans v.d. Geest]

That can happen if the placed indd still was from an InDesign 2025 (or earlier)  version.

[Willi Adelberger]

There can be several reasons:

1. Placed INDD is on a remote drive and the connection is not reliable from different reasons.
2. The placed INDD is from a different version.
3. Placed Assets in the placed INDD are broken.

That is why I recommend to export a PDF/X-4 and place this file instead.