How to Copy or Synchronize SharePoint Folders Between Sites
Question details
The user wants to know how to copy, move, or synchronize folders and files between different SharePoint sites.
- Product
- SharePoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Transferring or sharing document libraries and folders across multiple SharePoint sites.
- Observed behavior
- SharePoint allows one-time copying or moving of files, but lacks a built-in feature for live synchronization between two separate document libraries.
Ensure you have the appropriate site permissions (at least Edit or Contribute) for both the source and destination SharePoint sites before attempting to transfer files.
Use the 'Move to' or 'Copy to' Feature for One-Time Transfers
Utilize SharePoint's native options to transfer folders and files to another site. Moving preserves history, while copying only transfers the latest version.
SharePoint provides built-in commands to easily push files from one site to another. Keep in mind that once copied, the files in the destination site are independent and do not sync with the original files.
Open your source SharePoint document library and select the folder or files you wish to transfer by clicking the checkmark next to them.
Click the 'Show actions' (three dots) menu next to the selected item or use the top command bar. Select 'Move to' (to transfer the item and its version history) or 'Copy to' (to duplicate only the latest version).
In the side pane that appears, choose the destination SharePoint site and the specific document library, then click 'Move here' or 'Copy here'.
Share a Direct Link Instead of Duplicating
If live synchronization is needed or duplicate files are unnecessary, sharing a link ensures users access a single, updated source.
Looking for a Simpler Way to Manage and Sync Documents?
While SharePoint offers complex enterprise capabilities, managing and syncing files shouldn't be difficult. WPS Office provides a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office, complete with seamless cloud synchronization for all your personal and team documents.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS website and download the free WPS Office installer for your operating system.
- 2. Install and open: Run the installer, follow the on-screen instructions, and launch WPS Office.
- 3. Sign in for cloud sync: Create a free account and sign in to activate WPS Cloud, enabling seamless synchronization of your documents across all your devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set up a live, two-way sync between two SharePoint document libraries?
No, SharePoint does not provide a built-in live synchronization feature between two different document libraries or sites. To maintain a single source of truth, it is recommended to store the files in one location and share links to that folder from other sites.
Does the 'Copy to' function transfer the version history of a file?
No, using the 'Copy to' command only transfers the latest version of the file to the new destination. If you need to preserve the complete version history of your document, you must use the 'Move to' command instead.
Why can't I see my destination site when trying to move or copy a folder?
If the destination site does not appear in the 'Move to' or 'Copy to' pane, you might not have the necessary permissions for that site, or you may need to 'Follow' the site first by clicking the star icon on its homepage to make it appear in your quick access list.
