Gmail’s delayed delivery feature allows you to schedule emails to be sent at your preferred time and date. This is incredibly useful for sending reminders, managing international communications, or simply organizing your email workflow more efficiently. Whether you’re using Gmail on desktop or mobile, this 2025 guide walks you through exactly how to schedule emails, manage your scheduled messages, and troubleshoot common issues.
Why Use Gmail’s Delayed Delivery Feature?
Boosts Productivity
Schedule emails when it’s most effective, even if you’re not online at the time of sending.
Supports Time-Zone Differences
Communicate with people in different time zones without waking up early or staying up late.
Helps Maintain Professionalism
Avoid sending late-night or weekend emails that may seem unprofessional.
Let’s walk through how to use this valuable Gmail feature.
How to Use Gmail Delayed Delivery on Desktop
Gmail’s web version makes it easy to schedule emails in just a few clicks.
Compose a New Email
Go to gmail.com and sign in. Click “Compose” in the top-left corner.
Write Your Email
Enter the recipient’s email address, subject, and body content like usual.
Click the Arrow Beside “Send”
Instead of clicking “Send,” click the arrow icon next to the Send button.
Choose “Schedule Send”
Click “Schedule send” and select one of the preset options (like tomorrow morning) or pick a custom date and time.
Confirm Schedule
Click “Schedule send” to confirm. Your email is now saved in the Scheduled folder and will be sent at the designated time.
How to Use Gmail Delayed Delivery on Mobile (Android & iOS)
Scheduling emails from your phone is equally simple.
Open the Gmail App
Launch the Gmail app and tap the Compose icon.
Draft Your Email
Fill in the recipient, subject, and message body.
Tap the Three Dots (More Options)
In the top-right corner of the email draft screen, tap the three-dot menu.
Choose “Schedule Send”
Tap “Schedule send” and select your preferred time or set a custom schedule.
Done!
Your email will be queued in the Scheduled folder and sent automatically.
How to View and Manage Scheduled Emails
Sometimes you may need to check, edit, or cancel scheduled emails.
Desktop Method
- Click on the “Scheduled” label in the left sidebar.
- Click the email to view its details.
- To cancel, click “Cancel send” — the email will move back to Drafts for editing.
Mobile Method
- Tap the three-line menu icon, then scroll to Scheduled.
- Open the email you want to manage.
- Tap “Cancel send” to return it to your drafts for further changes.
Tips for Using Scheduled Emails Efficiently
Align with Time Zones
When emailing internationally, use scheduling to send messages during your recipient’s business hours.
Prepare in Advance
Draft and schedule emails for later to save time during your busy hours.
Use for Reminders
Send scheduled emails to yourself for task reminders, future events, or follow-ups.
Avoid Weekend Sends
If it’s Friday night and you want your email seen Monday morning, scheduling helps you appear professional and considerate.
Common Issues with Gmail Delayed Delivery (and Fixes)
Scheduled Email Not Sending
Solution: Check your internet connection and ensure the email hasn’t been moved or deleted from the Scheduled folder.
Scheduled Time Zone Misalignment
Solution: Gmail uses your device’s time zone. Double-check your settings before confirming the schedule.
“Schedule Send” Option Not Visible
Solution: Update your Gmail app or browser. The feature may not appear in outdated versions.
Email Sent at the Wrong Time
Solution: This is usually a time zone setting issue. Verify both Gmail and device time zones are correct.
Best Practices for Gmail Email Scheduling
Be Strategic
Use scheduled emails for maximum engagement mornings and early afternoons often yield higher open rates.
Proofread Before Scheduling
Once scheduled, it’s easy to forget about the email. Make sure it’s error-free and professional.
Label Important Scheduled Emails
Use Gmail labels to organize scheduled emails by project, client, or topic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I edit a scheduled email in Gmail?
Yes. Cancel the scheduled email, and it will go to Drafts. Edit and reschedule from there.
Where do I find scheduled emails in Gmail?
All scheduled emails are stored in the Scheduled folder in both desktop and mobile versions.
Can I schedule recurring emails in Gmail?
Not directly. However, you can use third-party add-ons or tools like Google Workspace scripts for automation.
What time zone does Gmail use for scheduled emails?
Gmail uses your device’s local time zone when scheduling emails.
Is Gmail delayed delivery available on free accounts?
Yes, scheduling emails is available to all Gmail users, including those on free plans.
Mastering Gmail’s delayed delivery feature is a game-changer for both personal productivity and professional communication. It helps you stay organized, appear more professional, and make sure your emails are read at the right time. With just a few taps or clicks, you can plan ahead without stress.
