SharePoint Document Issues

Fix SharePoint Move To Operation Already in Progress Error

Tauseeq Magsi Oct 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

A user is unable to move folders in SharePoint due to an error stating that a Move To operation is already in progress.

How to Fix SharePoint Move To Operation Already in Progress Error

Product: Microsoft SharePoint
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Moving folders or files within SharePoint after a previous move attempt was interrupted or the browser was refreshed.
Observed behavior: The system blocks new move attempts because the source folder remains locked by a stalled background move or copy process.

Before you start

Do not initiate repeated move or copy operations on the same source folder, as this can further complicate the stalled background process and delay recovery.

Solution 1Recommended

Report the Stalled Operation to Your Microsoft 365 Administrator

Since the stalled move operation is locked in the SharePoint backend, end-users cannot forcefully terminate it. Your administrator must escalate the issue to Microsoft Support.

When a browser is refreshed during a SharePoint 'Move To' action, the source folder remains tied to an incomplete background process. SharePoint cannot verify the destination, leaving the files locked. Only Microsoft engineering can inspect the background operation logs to clear or complete the stalled migration.

Gather necessary operation details

Note down the exact source folder name, the intended destination folder name, the approximate time the move was initiated, and the specific error message displayed.

Contact your IT administrator

Reach out to your organization's IT department or the assigned Microsoft 365 Administrator and provide them with the collected details.

Open a Microsoft Support ticket

Request that your administrator follow standard business support instructions to open a Microsoft Support ticket, so the engineering team can clear the backend logs.

Report the Stalled Operation to Your Microsoft 365 Administrator

Administrator Action Required: If you are the administrator, navigate to the Microsoft 365 Admin Center to contact business products support and submit the ticket for backend log clearance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Move To operation get stuck in SharePoint?

Refreshing the browser, experiencing network drops, or closing the tab during a 'Move To' operation can leave the source folder locked. SharePoint continues processing it in the background but fails to verify the destination, causing it to stall.

Can I force stop the SharePoint move operation myself?

No, end-users do not have the administrative permissions required to clear backend background operation logs. The process is handled on Microsoft's servers, meaning you must contact your administrator to resolve it.

Is it safe to try moving the files again while the error shows?

It is highly recommended not to start repeated move operations against the same source folder. Attempting to force the move repeatedly can cause further system conflicts and potential data discrepancies.

Document & File Issues