Skip to main content
A manual split divides a PDF into sub-documents using the exact page ranges you define. Use a manual split when you already know which pages belong together, such as a standard packet layout, a file someone has reviewed, or page ranges supplied by another system.
Box Doc Split is available through the Box API only. To split documents, work with your development team or see Manual split in the Box Developer Documentation.

Before you begin

Make sure you have:
  • Box Doc Split enabled. See Enabling Box Doc Split.
  • A source PDF already stored in Box
  • A destination folder in Box that you can write to
  • The page ranges for each output document
If you are unsure which pages to use, review the PDF first. If the boundaries depend on content or markers rather than fixed page numbers, use a smart split instead.

What you define

A manual split request includes the following: Each page range creates one output document. Page numbers start at 1, and both the start page and the end page are included in the output.

Example

You have a 14-page sales packet and want 2 files:
  • Pages 1 to 5 for the order summary
  • Pages 6 to 14 for the exhibits and terms
The split definition looks like this: After Box Doc Split runs, Box saves both files to the destination folder.

Best practices

  • Use page ranges that do not overlap, so each page belongs to only one output document.
  • Order your ranges by page number to match the reading order of the source PDF.
  • Choose a manual split whenever you already know the page numbers, because the results are the same every time.
  • Give destination folders meaningful names, such as Splits / Customer A / 2026-07, so reviewers can find the output quickly.

When to use a smart split instead

Choose a smart split when:
  • QR codes or separator pages mark the break points.
  • You need to keep only certain types of content, such as signatures and ID proofs.
  • Page ranges vary from file to file and are easier to describe than to calculate.
Last modified on September 23, 2026