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How to Transfer Files Between OneDrive Accounts and Contact Support
Question details
The user needs to know how to transfer files between OneDrive accounts and contact support, particularly when the original account is frozen or has exceeded its storage limit.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Transferring data from a restricted or frozen OneDrive account to a new destination account.
- Observed behavior
- Files cannot be directly moved or shared because the original account is frozen or restricted due to exceeding the maximum storage quota.
Verify the storage status of your current OneDrive account and ensure you have the login credentials for both your source and destination accounts before attempting a transfer.
Unfreeze the Account and Transfer Files Manually
The safest and most reliable method to secure your data is to restore access to your frozen account, download your files locally, and re-upload them to the new account.
When a OneDrive account is completely frozen, sharing links and direct transfers are usually disabled. You must temporarily increase your storage quota to regain file access.
Log in to the frozen OneDrive account. Purchase a storage upgrade or sign up for a free 1-month Microsoft 365 trial to temporarily unfreeze the account and regain access to your files.
Once the account is unfrozen, select the files and folders you wish to keep, and click the 'Download' button to save them to a secure local folder on your computer.
Sign out of the original account and log in to your destination OneDrive account. Click the 'Upload' button to transfer your locally saved files into the new account.
Transfer Files via Folder Sharing
If your original account is only nearing its storage limit and file sharing is not yet restricted, you can share folders to migrate data.
Contact Microsoft OneDrive Support
If you cannot unfreeze your account or access your files through standard methods, you will need to reach out to Microsoft Support directly.
Manage and Back Up Your Documents with WPS Office
If you are facing storage limits and access issues with Microsoft services, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, free alternative with built-in cloud storage options, seamless compatibility with Microsoft formats, and a familiar user interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a frozen OneDrive account retain files before deletion?
Microsoft typically provides a grace period (often 30 days) when an account becomes frozen due to storage limits. If no action is taken to free up space or purchase more storage, the account and its files may eventually be permanently deleted.
Can I automatically merge two OneDrive accounts?
No, Microsoft does not offer a built-in feature to automatically merge two different OneDrive accounts. You must manually transfer your files by downloading them from the source account and uploading them to the destination account, or by using the folder sharing method.
Why can't I share files from my original OneDrive account?
If your account has exceeded its storage quota for an extended period, it becomes frozen. In a frozen state, outbound file sharing and syncing are restricted. You must bring your account back under the storage limit by upgrading your plan or deleting files to restore the sharing capabilities.
