How do I fix "Failed to verify the existence of destination location"

Question

I am unable to copy items within my OneDrive. I receive the message, "Failed to verify the existence of destination location at..."

Answer 1

Hi Laura Kennedy,
If you're getting the "Failed to verify the existence of destination location" error, it usually means OneDrive can't confirm the folder you're trying to move or copy files into. It’s a bit annoying, but here are a few things that might help:

Step 1. Try avoiding shortcuts or shared folders as the destination. OneDrive sometimes has trouble with those. Use a regular folder you created yourself instead.

Step 2. Navigate directly to the actual folder in OneDrive or SharePoint—don’t rely on shortcuts.

Step 3. Make sure you have the right permissions. If the folder was shared with you, double-check with the owner that you have edit access.

Step 4. Switch browsers or use incognito/private mode. That’s helped some folks get around session or cache issues.

Step 5. If the folder you're copying into has thousands of items, it might be hitting a limit. Try moving smaller batches or use something like Power Automate if you’re dealing with a lot of files.

Step 6. If you’re using the OneDrive desktop app, try syncing the folder locally and moving files through File Explorer.

And if all else fails, download the files to your computer first, then upload them manually to the destination folder. It’s a bit of a workaround, but it usually works.

Let me know which one you’ve tried or if you want help walking through any of them!

If the answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and kindly upvote it. If you have extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment” I’m here to assist!

Regards,
Carl