How to migrate from Dropbox to Google Drive

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for migrating from Dropbox to Google Drive.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Migrating from Dropbox to Google Drive can be accomplished through several methods, including manual downloads and uploads, third-party tools, or using Google Drive's import feature. Each method has its own advantages depending on the volume of data and user preferences.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the migration process, ensure you have the following:
  • •A stable internet connection with sufficient bandwidth to handle large file transfers.
  • •Access to both your Dropbox and Google Drive accounts with the necessary permissions.
  • •Latest versions of web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari) for optimal performance.
  • •Backup of important data from both platforms to prevent accidental loss during migration.

Method 1: Manual Download and Upload

This method is straightforward and works well for users with a manageable amount of data. It involves downloading files from Dropbox and uploading them to Google Drive.
  • •Step 1: Log into your Dropbox account at https://www.dropbox.com.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to the files you want to migrate. Click on the checkbox next to each file or folder.
  • •Step 3: Click on the 'Download' button that appears at the top of the page. This will download the selected files as a ZIP file.
  • •Step 4: Once the download is complete, log into your Google Drive account at https://drive.google.com.
  • •Step 5: Click on the '+ New' button on the left sidebar, then select 'File upload' or 'Folder upload' depending on your needs.
  • •Step 6: Select the downloaded ZIP file and click 'Open' to upload it to Google Drive.
  • •Step 7: After the upload is complete, verify by checking if the files appear in your Google Drive.
  • •Step 8: If the upload fails, ensure the ZIP file is not corrupted and try again.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 specific steps for the manual method.
  • •Use the File Explorer to navigate to your Downloads folder to locate the ZIP file.
  • •Right-click the ZIP file and select 'Extract All...' to unzip the files before uploading.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 specific steps for the manual method.
  • •Open the Downloads folder from the File Explorer to find the downloaded ZIP file.
  • •Right-click the ZIP file and choose 'Extract All...' to unzip the contents for uploading.

Method 2: Using a Third-Party Migration Tool

Third-party tools can automate the migration process, making it easier for users with large amounts of data.
  • •Step 1: Choose a migration tool such as CloudMigrate or MultCloud.
  • •Step 2: Create an account on the chosen platform and log in.
  • •Step 3: Connect both your Dropbox and Google Drive accounts by following the on-screen prompts.
  • •Step 4: Select the files or folders you wish to transfer from Dropbox.
  • •Step 5: Choose the destination as Google Drive and initiate the transfer.
  • •Step 6: Monitor the transfer process and verify completion once the tool indicates success.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during the migration, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'File too large' - Solution: Split the file into smaller parts and try uploading again.
  • •Issue: 'Network timeout' - Fix: Check your internet connection and try again during off-peak hours.
  • •Problem: 'Insufficient storage' - Workaround: Clear space in your Google Drive or upgrade your storage plan.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your migration efficiency with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + A (Windows) or Command + A (Mac) - Select all files in a folder for quick download.
  • •Command line: Use Rclone for command-line transfers between cloud services - [Rclone Documentation](https://rclone.org/docs/).
  • •Hidden feature: Google Drive's 'Backup and Sync' tool can automatically sync files from your computer to Google Drive.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Using a dedicated migration tool is often the most efficient method, especially for large data sets, as it reduces manual effort and potential errors.