How to Fix Dropbox “Error Moving – There’s Already a Copy Of”

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Dropbox is a widely used cloud storage service, but sometimes users encounter the error message: “Error Moving – There’s Already a Copy Of.” This issue can be frustrating, especially when organizing or relocating files within Dropbox. Understanding the cause and applying appropriate fixes can help resolve this error efficiently.

Why This Error Occurs

The primary reason for this error is that Dropbox detects a duplicate file in the intended destination folder. This typically happens due to:

• A synchronization delay causing Dropbox to register the same file twice.
• An incomplete sync process leaving a ghost copy behind.
• Operating system conflicts where a background process locks the file.
• Accidental creation of duplicate copies due to multiple syncs.

How to Fix the Dropbox “Error Moving – There’s Already a Copy Of” Issue

Several troubleshooting steps can resolve this issue. Below are the most effective solutions.

1. Manually Check for Duplicate Files

Before attempting complex fixes, manually inspect the folder you are moving the file into.

• Open Dropbox via the web or desktop.
• Navigate to the destination folder.
• Look for a file with the same name.
• If a duplicate exists, rename or delete the unnecessary file.

2. Restart Dropbox and Your Device

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve file sync conflicts.

• Exit Dropbox completely.
• Restart your computer or mobile device.
• Reopen Dropbox and attempt to move the file again.

3. Pause and Resume Sync

Dropbox may be stuck trying to sync the file twice. Pausing and resuming can refresh the process.

• Click on the Dropbox icon in your system tray.
• Go to Settings and select Pause syncing.
• Wait a few moments, then resume syncing.

4. Rename the File

Renaming the file is a quick workaround:

• Right-click the file in question.
• Select Rename from the options.
• Change its name slightly and try moving it again.

5. Move the File to a Temporary Folder

Another effective method is moving it elsewhere first:

• Move the file to a different folder within Dropbox.
• Wait for Dropbox to sync.
• Once synced, move it back to the intended destination.

6. Clear Dropbox Cache

Dropbox stores temporary files that sometimes cause conflicts. Clearing the cache may help.

• Navigate to your Dropbox folder on your computer.
• Find the .dropbox.cache folder.
• Delete all contents inside the cache folder.
• Restart Dropbox and check if the issue persists.

7. Check for File Locks or Permissions Issues

Some files may be in use or restricted due to permission settings.

• Ensure no other apps are using the file.
• Check the file’s properties to ensure it’s not set to Read-only.
• If using a shared folder, verify that you have the necessary edit permissions.

8. Reinstall Dropbox

If nothing works, reinstalling Dropbox might resolve the issue.

• Uninstall Dropbox from your device.
• Restart your system and reinstall Dropbox.
• Sign in and allow Dropbox to resync your files.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does this error affect shared folders?

Yes, shared folders can trigger this error if different users modify files simultaneously. Coordinate with other users when making changes.

2. Can this issue happen on mobile devices?

Yes, the error may occur on mobile Dropbox apps if file syncs are interrupted or if duplicate files exist.

3. What if the file keeps reappearing after deletion?

This can happen due to incomplete sync or cached data. Try clearing the Dropbox cache or pausing and resuming sync.

4. How do I avoid this issue in the future?

• Sync changes before attempting to move files.
• Avoid editing the same file from multiple devices simultaneously.
• Regularly clear the Dropbox cache to prevent ghost files.

By following these troubleshooting steps, users can quickly fix the Dropbox “Error Moving – There’s Already a Copy Of” issue and ensure smooth file management.

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