Outlook 2007 stops you from sending a specific message when the item’s file size exceeds the server’s limit. You see the error “Can not send this item” and wonder what went wrong. This problem is common, but you can fix it with simple steps.
Many users hit this issue when attaching large files or embedding images. The error message is vague, but the cause is usually a size restriction. Let’s break down why this happens and how to resolve it.
Understanding The “Can Not Send This Item Outlook 2007” Error
This error appears when Outlook 2007 cannot send a message due to file size limits. Your email server or Exchange server sets a maximum size for outgoing items. If your message exceeds that limit, Outlook blocks it.
The error might also occur due to corrupt data files, add-ins, or profile issues. But size is the most common culprit. Let’s explore the main reasons and solutions.
Common Causes Of This Error
- Attachments larger than your server’s limit (often 20-25 MB)
- Embedded images or objects that bloat the message size
- Corrupt Outlook data files (.pst or .ost)
- Conflicting add-ins or antivirus software
- Damaged Outlook profile or send/receive settings
How To Fix “Can Not Send This Item Outlook 2007”
You have several ways to solve this problem. Try these methods in order, starting with the easiest.
Method 1: Reduce The Message Size
Large attachments are the main reason for this error. Compress or remove them to bring the size down.
- Open the unsent message in Outlook 2007
- Remove large attachments by right-clicking and selecting “Remove”
- Compress files using a tool like WinRAR or 7-Zip
- Re-attach the compressed files
- Try sending again
If you need to send many files, use a cloud service like OneDrive or Google Drive. Insert a link instead of attaching the files.
Check Your Server’s Size Limit
Most email servers allow attachments up to 20-25 MB. But some have smaller limits. Contact your IT admin or check your email provider’s settings.
For Exchange servers, the default limit is often 10 MB. You can check this in Outlook by going to Tools > Account Settings > Double-click your account > More Settings > Advanced. Look for “Maximum message size.”
Method 2: Compress Images In The Message
Embedded images can make a message huge. Outlook 2007 has a built-in compression tool.
- Open the message with images
- Click on any image to select it
- Go to the Format tab under Picture Tools
- Click “Compress Pictures”
- Choose “E-mail (96 ppi)” option
- Click OK
This reduces image resolution without losing much quality. The message size drops significantly.
Method 3: Create A New Outlook Profile
A corrupt profile can cause sending errors. Creating a fresh profile often fixes the issue.
- Close Outlook 2007
- Go to Control Panel > Mail
- Click “Show Profiles”
- Click “Add” and name the new profile
- Set up your email account again
- Select “Prompt for a profile to be used”
- Open Outlook and choose the new profile
- Try sending the message
If this works, you can delete the old profile later.
Method 4: Disable Add-Ins
Add-ins can interfere with sending. Disable them temporarily to test.
- In Outlook 2007, go to Tools > Trust Center
- Click “Add-ins” on the left
- At the bottom, select “COM Add-ins” from the dropdown
- Click “Go”
- Uncheck all add-ins and click OK
- Restart Outlook and try sending
If the error goes away, enable add-ins one by one to find the culprit.
Method 5: Run The Inbox Repair Tool
Corrupt data files can cause sending failures. The Inbox Repair Tool (Scanpst.exe) fixes these issues.
- Close Outlook 2007
- Go to C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office12
- Find SCANPST.EXE and double-click it
- Browse to your .pst file (usually in C:\Users\[YourName]\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook)
- Click “Start” to scan
- If errors are found, click “Repair”
- Restart Outlook and try sending
Note: The repair tool may not fix all issues. Back up your .pst file first.
Advanced Solutions For Persistent Errors
If the basic methods don’t work, try these advanced fixes.
Check Antivirus Integration
Some antivirus programs scan outgoing emails and cause conflicts. Temporarily disable the email scanning feature.
- Open your antivirus software
- Find the email or mail protection settings
- Disable scanning of outgoing messages
- Restart Outlook and test
If this fixes the error, keep the feature disabled or switch to a different antivirus.
Repair Office Installation
A damaged Office installation can cause Outlook errors. Run a repair.
- Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features
- Find Microsoft Office 2007
- Right-click and select “Change”
- Choose “Repair” and follow the prompts
- Restart your computer
This may take a few minutes. After completion, test Outlook.
Use Safe Mode To Isolate Issues
Starting Outlook in Safe Mode disables add-ins and customizations. This helps identify the problem.
- Hold the Ctrl key and click the Outlook shortcut
- Click “Yes” when prompted to start in Safe Mode
- Try sending the message
- If it works, an add-in or customization is the cause
In Safe Mode, you can disable problematic add-ins permanently.
Preventing Future “Can Not Send This Item” Errors
Once you fix the issue, take steps to avoid it happening again.
Keep Attachments Small
Always compress large files before attaching. Use cloud links for files over 5 MB.
- Compress images to 96 ppi for email
- Use PDF instead of Word documents when possible
- Split large files into smaller parts
- Use file sharing services for big attachments
Regularly Maintain Outlook
Keep your Outlook data healthy with routine maintenance.
- Run Scanpst.exe every few months
- Compact your .pst file to reduce size
- Archive old emails to keep your mailbox lean
- Update Outlook with the latest service packs
Monitor Server Limits
Know your email server’s size limits. Ask your IT department or check your provider’s documentation.
For Exchange users, the default limit is usually 10 MB for outgoing messages. Some organizations set it lower. You can request an increase if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Does Outlook 2007 Say “Can Not Send This Item” Even With Small Attachments?
This can happen due to corrupt data files, add-ins, or profile issues. Try the methods above, starting with creating a new profile and disabling add-ins.
How Do I Check The Size Of My Outlook Message?
In the message window, go to File > Properties. Look for “Size” in the Properties dialog. This shows the total size including attachments.
Can I Increase The Server Size Limit For Outlook 2007?
No, you cannot change server limits from Outlook. Contact your email provider or IT admin to request a higher limit. For Exchange, the admin can adjust it on the server side.
Does This Error Affect All Email Accounts In Outlook 2007?
It can affect any account type (POP3, IMAP, Exchange). But the cause and fix may vary. Exchange accounts often have stricter limits set by the server.
Will Upgrading To A Newer Outlook Version Fix This?
Newer versions like Outlook 2016 or 365 have better handling of large files. But server limits still apply. Upgrading may reduce some issues but not eliminate them entirely.
Final Thoughts On The Error
The “Can not send this item” error in Outlook 2007 is frustrating but fixable. Start with reducing message size and compressing attachments. If that fails, move to profile repair and add-in troubleshooting.
Most users solve the problem with the first method. Large files are the primary cause. Keep your attachments under 20 MB and use compression tools regularly.
If you still face issues after trying all methods, consider upgrading to a newer Outlook version. But for now, these steps should get your emails sending again.
Remember to back up your Outlook data before making major changes. This protects you from data loss during repairs or profile resets.
With these solutions, you can overcome the “Can Not Send This Item Outlook 2007” error and get back to productive work.