How to Move Files from One OneDrive to Another (No Download Needed!)

Learn how to quickly transfer files between two OneDrive accounts without the hassle of downloading and re-uploading. This guide covers two practical methods—file sharing and automated cloud-to-cloud migration using CloudsLinker—to help you move your data with ease.

Introduction

Managing files across multiple cloud accounts is increasingly common, especially as users balance personal and work storage needs. OneDrive, Microsoft’s flagship cloud platform, makes syncing and storing data simple—but transferring content between two accounts can be less straightforward. Whether you’re switching accounts or organizing your digital life, this article walks you through two effective ways to migrate files from one OneDrive to another—without ever needing to download them.

Understanding OneDrive

OneDrive is Microsoft’s answer to modern cloud storage needs, offering a deeply integrated solution for users across Windows and Microsoft 365. With its clean interface, reliable syncing, and generous storage options, OneDrive makes storing, organizing, and accessing files effortless—whether you're at home, in the office, or on the go. For anyone embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem, it's an intuitive and seamless part of daily digital life.

When managing multiple OneDrive accounts—whether for personal organization, business workflows, or school collaboration—being able to move files between them efficiently is essential. This guide explores how to transfer files between OneDrive accounts without downloading them, using both built-in sharing tools and cloud-based solutions like CloudsLinker.

OneDrive's Core Attributes

Deep Microsoft Integration: Built into Windows and Microsoft 365, OneDrive works natively with apps like Word, Excel, and Teams, streamlining your workflow.
Real-Time File Syncing: Automatically syncs your documents and media across devices, ensuring you always have access to the latest version.
Granular Sharing Controls: Offers precise control over who can view or edit your files, with options for expiration dates and password-protected links.
Built-In Version History: Keeps a history of document changes, allowing you to recover earlier versions or undo mistakes effortlessly.

Benefits of Using OneDrive

OneDrive combines convenience with powerful collaboration tools, making it ideal for both individuals and teams. Its native integration with Microsoft services, strong security framework, and cloud-based accessibility simplify the way you handle digital content. For users with multiple OneDrive accounts, smart transfer options open new doors for better file organization and control.

Streamlined Collaboration and Access: Enables real-time editing and sharing across users and platforms, enhancing teamwork and productivity.
Secure and Scalable Storage: Backed by Microsoft’s enterprise-grade infrastructure, OneDrive provides a reliable and secure space to store everything from daily notes to sensitive documents.

Preparing to Transfer Files Between OneDrive Accounts

Before moving files from one OneDrive account to another, a few simple steps can help avoid errors and ensure everything goes smoothly. Here's how to set up for a successful transfer:

Verify Access to Both OneDrive Accounts: Make sure you can log in to both the source and destination OneDrive accounts. Check that there’s enough available storage in the target account to receive the files.
Sort and Group Files for Transfer: Organize your files into clearly labeled folders. This not only speeds up the transfer but also keeps everything easy to locate once the migration is complete.
Review Shared Links and Permissions: If you're using the sharing method to transfer files, ensure shared folders are set with the correct permissions so the second account can copy or move them without issues.

Getting organized beforehand—by checking both accounts, sorting files, and reviewing sharing settings—will make your OneDrive-to-OneDrive transfer much faster and more reliable. Whether you’re using native sharing or a third-party tool like CloudsLinker, this preparation lays the groundwork for a smooth file migration.

The Migration Process Explained

Step 1: Log in to Your Source OneDrive Account

Visit https://onedrive.live.com/ and sign in with the account containing the files you wish to move. Locate the folders or files you plan to transfer to your other OneDrive account.

Step 2: Share Files with the Destination Account

Select the files or folders, click the 'Share' button, and enter the email address of your second OneDrive account. Make sure to grant 'Edit' access to allow full control. Then, click 'Send' to share the content securely.

Sharing files with another OneDrive account

Step 3: Accept and Open Shared Files in the Second Account

Switch to your second OneDrive account and open the sharing link (sent via email or directly accessible under 'Shared' in OneDrive). From there, you can view and interact with the shared files or folders.

Step 4: Add Shortcut to Your Own OneDrive

To access the shared folder more easily, click the 'Add shortcut to My files' option. This places a direct link to the shared content in your OneDrive, letting you manage and browse it alongside your personal files without duplicating data.

Adding shortcut of shared files to OneDrive

Step 5: Confirm File Organization and Storage

After the copy is complete, navigate to your destination folders to confirm everything transferred as expected. You can now delete the original share or keep it for collaboration if needed.

Confirming files in the second OneDrive account

Important: If the original owner deletes the shared files or revokes access, the shortcuts in your account will no longer work. To retain long-term access, consider making a full copy into your own OneDrive.

Key Tools and Services for Efficient Data Transfer

Introducing CloudsLinker:

CloudsLinker empowers smooth data transfer across over 30 major cloud platforms, including OneDrive. Designed for users who value speed and control, it enables direct cloud-to-cloud migration without consuming local bandwidth. With a secure OAuth2.0-based authentication process and an intuitive dashboard, CloudsLinker simplifies even large-scale migrations. Whether you're moving personal documents or business archives, this tool ensures your files remain encrypted and efficiently transferred. Learn more in our in-depth Knowledge Base.

Step 1: Sign in to CloudsLinker

Head to CloudsLinker and log in using your email or connected login method. Once inside, you’ll be able to link your cloud accounts and start your file migration tasks.

Step 2: Connect Your First OneDrive Account

Click 'Add Cloud' and select OneDrive from the list of services. You’ll be redirected to a Microsoft login page for OAuth2.0 authorization. Sign in and grant permission for CloudsLinker to access your OneDrive files securely.

Authorizing first OneDrive account with CloudsLinker

Step 3: Add Your Second OneDrive Account

Repeat the process for your second OneDrive account. Make sure you're logged out of the first account in your browser to avoid conflict. The OAuth2.0 page will prompt you to log into the second account and authorize access.

Step 4: Configure and Launch the Transfer

Go to the 'Transfer' tab and set your source as the first OneDrive account and the destination as the second. Select the folders or files you want to move, configure optional filters, and click 'Start Transfer' to begin.

Setting up OneDrive to OneDrive file transfer

Step 5: Monitor Progress and Verify Completion

Watch the real-time progress of your file transfer in CloudsLinker’s dashboard. Once complete, log into your second OneDrive account and verify the files are present, properly organized, and fully accessible.

Why This Method Is More Reliable: When using CloudsLinker to migrate files between OneDrive accounts, the files are actually copied from the source to the destination account. This means that even if the original files are deleted or access is revoked in the source account, the transferred copies in the destination account will remain safe and intact. It's a one-time, independent migration—unlike shared shortcuts, which depend on continued access from the source.

Leveraging OneDrive's Features After Migration

Optimizing File Management in OneDrive

After migrating your data, it's essential to utilize OneDrive's features to organize and manage your files effectively:

Establish a Logical Folder Structure: Create a folder system that categorizes files by purpose, such as work, personal, or shared projects, to keep everything easily accessible.
Utilize OneDrive's Sharing Options: Securely share folders with collaborators using OneDrive’s built-in link management, allowing you to control access, expiration, and editing rights.
Leverage Version History: Track changes across documents with OneDrive's versioning, making it easy to restore older versions when needed.
Enable Files On-Demand: Save local disk space by keeping files online and downloading only when needed, especially useful for large migrations.

Enhancing Security for Your OneDrive Account

Protect your newly migrated content by taking full advantage of OneDrive’s built-in security features:

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of login protection by activating 2FA via your Microsoft account settings.
Regularly Update Your Password: Change your OneDrive password periodically to reduce the chance of unauthorized access.
Monitor Shared Links and Permissions: Review your shared files to ensure only intended users still have access and revoke any outdated permissions.
Encrypt Mobile Access: Activate device encryption on smartphones and tablets to protect mobile access to your OneDrive data.

Maximizing OneDrive's Capabilities Post-Migration

OneDrive offers more than just storage—explore these additional tools and integrations to boost productivity:

Install the OneDrive Mobile App: Access and upload files on-the-go using the OneDrive mobile app available on iOS and Android.
Integrate with Microsoft 365 Apps: Work on files directly from Word, Excel, or PowerPoint and save your changes instantly to OneDrive.
Enable Automatic Media Backup: Set your mobile device to automatically upload photos and videos to OneDrive, keeping memories safe.
Connect to Third-Party Tools: Integrate OneDrive with other cloud services or productivity platforms to streamline your workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions: OneDrive to OneDrive Migration

How can I ensure my files are secure during the transfer?

Use a trusted tool like CloudsLinker to handle your migration securely. Make sure both accounts have strong passwords and 2FA enabled.

Will the copied files stay if I delete them from the original account?

Yes. CloudsLinker creates a true copy in the destination account, so even if the source files are deleted, your new files remain unaffected.

Can I automate the migration process?

Absolutely. CloudsLinker supports automated file transfers and scheduling, making large-scale migrations easy to manage.

What should I do if I can’t find files after the transfer?

Check that you're logged into the correct OneDrive account, then use OneDrive’s search feature. Also verify if the files were placed inside a specific folder.

Does OneDrive charge for transferring between accounts?

OneDrive itself doesn’t charge for internal usage, but tools like CloudsLinker may apply service fees depending on your data volume or plan.

Step-by-Step Guide: Move Files Between OneDrive Accounts

Want to move files from one OneDrive account to another without downloading or re-uploading? This video walks you through two simple and effective methods: using OneDrive’s built-in sharing feature and transferring with CloudsLinker. Whether you're organizing accounts or switching workspaces, this visual guide will help you migrate your files quickly, securely, and with zero hassle.

Conclusion

This guide explains how to transfer files from one OneDrive account to another without downloading, using either OneDrive’s sharing feature or the more reliable CloudsLinker tool. While sharing is quick, it depends on the original account’s access. CloudsLinker, by contrast, creates a full copy in the new account via secure OAuth2.0 authorization. After migration, users can enhance file management through OneDrive’s built-in features like folder organization, version history, and integration with Microsoft 365.

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