How do I transfer my files from Google Drive to Sync?

If you're looking for a more secure cloud storage solution, moving your files from Google Drive to Sync is a great choice. In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to transfer your files from Google Drive, including:


Transferring your files from Google Drive using a web browser:

Transferring using the web browser is best for users who want to download all of their Google Drive data at once. This method is particularly useful for those performing a full backup or closing a Google account, as it allows you to export everything.

1. Download your files from Google Drive to your local drive:

  1. Sign in to Google Drive from your web browser.
  2. Open takeout.google.com
  3. Click Deselect All
    visual of arrow pointing to the deselect all button..png 
  4. Scroll to Drive and select the check box.
    visual of the Drive option selected.png 
  5. Scroll down and select Next step.
  6. Under Choose file type, frequency & destination, select the following:

    Destination: Send download link via email.
    Frequency: Export once.
    File type: .zip.
    File size: 2 GB.
    visual example of the drive options to select.png

  7. Select Create export.
  8. Once the files have been exported, you'll receive an email with the subject line "Your Google data is ready to download". Download all the files from this email. 
    visual of the email from Google when files have exported.png
  9. By default (unless your settings are changed), your files will be saved to the Downloads folder on your computer as a compressed file named takeout-[DATE].zip

2. Upload your files from your local drive to Sync:

  1. Install the Sync desktop app on your computer. This will create a Sync folder on your computer.
  2. Open File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (macOS) and move the takeout-[DATE].zip file(s) into the Sync folder.
    dragging files from Google Drive to Sync on Windows.gif
  3. Unzip the takeout-[DATE].zip files. Here’s how to unzip files on Windows and macOS.
  4. The Sync app will upload all of the files.
  5. Once all of the files have been uploaded you can delete the takeout-[DATE].zip file(s).

Transferring your files from Google Drive using the desktop app:

This approach is best if you wish to transfer only specific files or folders, offering greater flexibility and control over what content is moved. 

Windows macOS
  1. Install the Sync desktop app. This will create a Sync folder on your computer.
  2. If you don't already have the Google Drive desktop app installed, install it now.
  3. Ensure all your Google Drive files are available offline (downloaded to your computer). You'll need about twice as much free space on your computer to ensure all your Google Drive files can be transferred. To make all your Google Drive files available offline:
    • Open File Explorer (Win + E).
    • Navigate to your Google Drive folder.
    • Select the files or folders you're going to transfer.
    • Right-click and select Show more options.
    • Hover over the Offline access tab then select, Available offline.
      option to make available offline on Windows.png
  4. Verify Google Drive is fully synced to ensure all files are up to date.
  5. Now that all your Google Drive files have been downloaded to your computer, you can move them to Sync:
    • Open two File Explorer windows side by side.
    • In one window, open the Google Drive folder.
    • In the other, open the Sync folder.
    • Drag or copy files from Google Drive to Sync.
      dragging files from Google Drive to Sync on Windows.gif
  6. Once the files are moved, the Sync app will automatically upload your files to the cloud!

FAQs:

Can I transfer files directly from Google Drive to Sync without downloading them?
No, Google Drive does not offer direct integration with Sync. You must first download your files to your local device and then upload them to Sync.

Can I place the Google Drive folder inside the Sync folder?
No, placing the Google Drive folder inside the Sync folder (or vice versa) can cause syncing conflicts and unexpected behaviour. Keep both folders separate to ensure smooth and uninterrupted file transfers.

How long does it take to transfer files from Google Drive to Sync?
The transfer speed with Sync can reach up to 40 Megabits per second (5 Megabytes per second) per thread. However, the total transfer time depends on factors like the size of your files, your internet speed, and whether you're using the web or desktop apps.

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