How to Transfer OneDrive Files and Folders to Another OneDrive Account
If you are migrating from one Microsoft OneDrive account to another, you probably want to transfer all your OneDrive files and folders to the new account quickly and with no hassle. While copying the entirety of your OneDrive account may seem like a tough task, the process can actually be easy.
This comprehensive, up-to-date guide will explain how you can transfer all files from OneDrive to another account automatically and manually in 2024.
We start with the automatic option because it's so much easier than the manual process, especially if you have a large OneDrive account. But if you have plenty of time to spare and are ready to take up the challenge, you can consider the manual option as well.
Option 1. Use VaultMe to transfer OneDrive files to another account automatically without downloading
VaultMe is an online application for copying files and folders between OneDrive accounts. It makes moving to a new account as easy as it can be.
VaultMe can transfer both personal and OneDrive for Business accounts to another Microsoft account.
Here are some of VaultMe's advantages:
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VaultMe is fully automated and works in a browser (no need to download and install any software).
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VaultMe migrates both "My Files" and shared OneDrive documents, including files from Sharepoint libraries.
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The VaultMe app preserves the folder structure of the copied account. All your files and folders will stay organized.
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VaultMe is trusted by individuals and businesses worldwide. Read our reviews and see for yourself!
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It takes only a few minutes to set up and works fast.
Option 2. Migrate OneDrive files from one account to another manually
This option involves downloading the files to your hard drive and uploading them to your new Microsoft 365 OneDrive account.
To move your OneDrive data to another account manually:
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In a browser, download the files from your old OneDrive to your computer.
Select the file or folder you want to download and click the "Download" button in the top menu.
How to download files and folders from OneDrive -
Upload the files to your new OneDrive.
How to upload files and folders to OneDrive
Alternatively, you can install the OneDrive desktop app and sync your OneDrive with your computer to download the files. However, the app does not support connecting two OneDrive accounts, so you may need to upload the files manually anyway.
The manual method described in this section has several significant downsides. Consider the following before you begin:
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The download and upload process will be very slow and may take up to several days or even weeks (especially if you have a large account with over 10 GB of content).
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You will have to do additional work to organize the downloaded files and folders.
When you download multiple files or folders, Microsoft puts them in zip archives. If you want to preserve the folder structure of your old account, you'll have to unzip and reorganize all files and folders before you upload them to the new account.
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You need to have enough free storage space on your hard drive for copies of all your files and folders.
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You will need to have a stable broadband connection and keep the computer powered on during the complete download and upload process. Interruptions to the internet connection and power supply may cause download and/or upload errors.
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You will have to download the files and folders that are shared with you separately.
When someone shares a file or folder with your OneDrive account, it appears in the "Shared" section of your OneDrive. You can either download these files and folders separately or you can add them to your Drive before you start downloading the content of the account.
How VaultMe compares to the manual method
| Features | VaultMe | Manual download and upload |
|---|---|---|
| Fully automated |  |
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| Doesn't need hard drive storage | |
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| Works online | |
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| Preserves folder structure | |
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| Is recommended for both small (<10 GB) and large (10+ GB and/or 10,000+ items) accounts | |
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| Generates a detailed migration report | |
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| Free option | |
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FAQs about moving OneDrive files to another account
Is there a way to transfer all OneDrive files to another account?
You can create copies of all OneDrive files in another account using automated migration tools. VaultMe is one such tool, and it can transfer all OneDrive files while retaining the original dates, formatting, and folder organization.
How do I transfer ownership of OneDrive files to another account?
This isn't possible. However, you can migrate all of your OneDrive files to another account. The copies in the destination account will be owned by that account. Consider using an automated tool like VaultMe to accomplish this.
Are OneDrive and SharePoint the same?
OneDrive and SharePoint are not the same, although they are both Microsoft cloud storage solutions and are often used together. OneDrive is mainly used for personal storage, while SharePoint facilitates team collaboration and documentation management. Files stored in OneDrive can be moved to SharePoint for collaboration.
How can I transfer all files from one Microsoft 365 account to another?
Using an automated paid tool that can copy both owned and shared files is the recommended option, as the automated process saves a lot of time and effort. However, you can consider the manual method as well, especially if you have a small account and a few shared items.
How do I merge two Microsoft accounts?
For security reasons, Microsoft does not offer the functionality to merge two Microsoft / OneDrive accounts. However, you can move emails and OneDrive files from one account to another using the methods outlined in this article and then close the unneeded account.
Can I move files from a personal OneDrive to OneDrive for work or school?
Yes, you can use Microsoft's recommendations to do that, but keep in mind that this approach comes with several limitations:
- Files must be moved in batches.
- Shared files cannot be transferred.
- Metadata is not preserved.
To simplify the process and avoid these challenges, consider using an automated tool like VaultMe.
Conclusion
If you want to migrate all OneDrive files and folders to another account, you have two options: you can transfer your OneDrive files and folders automatically usinga migration tool (this will allow you to migrate OneDrive content without downloading) or you can download and upload them manually.
The easy way to move your OneDrive files to another account is to use VaultMe. The VaultMe app saves the structure of the OneDrive account, provides precise results, and works fast. The app can be used to transfer OneDrive files to another account by an admin or by a user of the account. It is a paid service but it may cost you more in time and effort to migrate your content manually.
Still, owners of small accounts may benefit from the manual option. If you decide to go this route, you should be prepared for many challenges.
Related articles
Need to merge several OneDrive accounts? Learn how you can do that: Merge Two or Multiple OneDrive Accounts.
Want to transfer OneDrive files to Google Drive? There are several ways to do so: Three Ways to Transfer OneDrive Files to Google Drive.