How to Download Output Files from API Requests
Overview
When you process a file using PDF.co APIs, the result is provided as a temporary output URL in the API response. This article explains how to access, preview, and permanently store your output files.
Step 1 – Locate the Output URL
After making an API call, check the response body for a field called url.This is a temporary link to your processed file.
Example Response:
{
"status": "success",
"message": "Success",
"outputLinkValidTill": "2025-08-11T17:09:13.263623+00:00",
"jobId": "Q92F33DZJZBQ0O5WXQK96YAHMBZTWSZG--103-600",
"credits": 2,
"remainingCredits": 152247,
"duration": 83
}
Step 2 – Understand the Expiration Time
The temporary URL expires after 60 minutes by default.
If you are on the Business 2 plan or above, you can extend the expiration time up to 1440 minutes (24 hours) by setting the expiration parameter in your API request.
Step 3 – Preview the Output File
Copy the temporary URL from the API response.
Paste it into your web browser’s address bar and press Enter.
Your file will open or download depending on your browser’s settings.
Step 4 – Permanently Store Your Output
Since the temporary link will expire, we recommend saving the file to a permanent location, such as:
Google Drive
OneDrive
Dropbox
Amazon S3
Your own server or database
Quick Tips
If you need more time before the link expires, set the expiration parameter when making the API request (Business 2 plan+).
For large-scale or automated workflows, immediately download and store files after processing to avoid expiration issues.
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