---
title: "Remove files"
canonical_url: "https://www.nutrient.io/guides/document-engine/file-management/remove/"
md_url: "https://www.nutrient.io/guides/document-engine/file-management/remove.md"
last_updated: "2026-05-14T21:57:26.836Z"
description: "Learn the step-by-step process to remove files from asset storage effectively. Optimize your storage and manage assets with ease."
---

# Remove files

To remove files from asset storage in Document Engine, you can use either the single file removal or bulk deletion feature, depending on your needs.

## Removing a single file

To delete a specific document, use the [delete functionality](https://www.nutrient.io/api/reference/document-engine/upstream/#tag/Documents/operation/delete-document) with the document’s ID. When you send a delete request, Document Engine will remove the document and its associated assets from storage.

If the deletion is successful, you’ll receive a `200 OK` response. If the document cannot be found or accessed, an appropriate error message will be returned.

## Removing multiple files

For removing multiple documents at once, use the [bulk deletion feature](https://www.nutrient.io/api/reference/document-engine/upstream/#tag/Documents/operation/bulk-delete-documents). This is useful for cleaning up large sets of documents based on filters such as title, document ID, or creation date range.

If no filters are provided, the request will be rejected with a `400 Bad Request` error to prevent accidental mass deletion.

## Keep in mind

- **Use filters wisely** — When performing bulk deletions, always specify filters to target the correct documents. This helps prevent accidental deletion of unintended files.

- **This is permanent operation** — Deletion is permanent and cannot be undone. Consider backing up important documents before deletion.

- **Date format** — Use the ISO 8601 format for date parameters (e.g. `2025-05-13T17:00:00Z`).

This will help you efficiently manage and clean up your asset storage in Document Engine.
---

## Related pages

- [Create a document from a URL](/guides/document-engine/file-management/create-a-document-from-url.md)
- [Create a document from an upload](/guides/document-engine/file-management/create-a-document-from-upload.md)
- [File management overview](/guides/document-engine/file-management.md)
- [List documents with pagination](/guides/document-engine/file-management/list-documents.md)
- [Working with password-protected PDFs](/guides/document-engine/file-management/password-pdfs.md)
- [Store user-uploaded files](/guides/document-engine/file-management/store-user-uploaded-files.md)