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Data Import & Export

How to Clear a Pending Excel Upload After Deleting the File

Huma Ashraf ChHuma Ashraf Ch Sep 27, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user needs to know how to resolve an issue where an Excel file upload remains in a pending status even after the original source file has been deleted from the device.

How to Clear a Pending Excel Upload After Deleting the File
Product
Microsoft Excel
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Troubleshooting a stuck file upload or syncing queue when the source document is no longer available on the system.
Observed behavior
The Excel upload process stays continuously pending, and the system fails to clear the queue or recognize that the source file has been removed.
Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and take note of any specific error codes displayed on your screen before proceeding with the troubleshooting steps.

Solution 1Recommended

Troubleshoot and Isolate the Pending Upload Issue

Use this method to identify whether the pending upload is caused by a local file glitch, a network interruption, or a cloud syncing error.

When an upload remains pending after a file is deleted, the upload center or cloud sync service is often trying to process a cached version of the document. Isolating the cause is the first step to clearing the queue.

1
Identify the scope of the problem

Check whether the pending upload issue affects only the deleted file or if all your files are failing to upload. Confirm if the original file was saved locally on your hard drive or in a cloud storage folder like OneDrive.

2
Record system and error details

Note down the exact error message provided by the application. Check and record your computer's operating system version and the specific version of Excel you are currently running.

3
Test your network connection

Disconnect from your current Wi-Fi or wired network and connect to a different network, such as a mobile hotspot. This helps determine if network restrictions are preventing the upload queue from refreshing.

4
Upload a test document

Create a new, blank Excel document and save it. Attempt to upload this new file. If it uploads successfully, the original pending issue is isolated to the deleted file's cache, which can usually be resolved by restarting the sync client.

Troubleshoot and Isolate the Pending Upload Issue
Check other Office documents: It is highly recommended to check if Microsoft Word or PowerPoint files are also stuck in a pending state. If multiple Office apps are affected, you may need to clear the Microsoft Office Document Cache.
Free Microsoft Office alternative

Avoid Syncing Errors with WPS Office

If you are tired of dealing with pending uploads and complicated cloud syncing errors in Microsoft Office, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, intuitive experience with highly reliable cloud saving and full compatibility with your existing spreadsheets.

  1. 1. Download and install WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download the free installer and complete the setup process on your device.
  2. 2. Sign in to enable cloud sync: Create or log into your WPS account to activate your free WPS Cloud storage for reliable automatic backups.
  3. 3. Open your Excel files: Double-click your existing .xlsx files to open them instantly in WPS Spreadsheet without worrying about formatting loss.
Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx, .xls) and CSV formats.Built-in, seamless WPS Cloud integration prevents stuck file uploads.Lightweight application that uses fewer system resources.Free to use with a familiar, tabbed user interface.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does an Excel upload remain pending after the file is deleted?

This occurs because the application's upload cache or the cloud synchronization service still holds temporary data for the file, and it is continually attempting to complete the upload process despite the original source missing.

How can I force close a pending upload in Excel?

You can resolve this by opening the Office Upload Center (or your specific cloud client), locating the pending file in the queue, and manually selecting the option to discard changes or delete the file from the cache.

Does my network connection affect pending file uploads?

Yes. An unstable, restrictive, or intermittent internet connection can interrupt communication with cloud servers, causing uploads to hang indefinitely in a pending state.