Can't move files - The operation can't be completed because the item is in use.

Hi everyone,
I'm trying to move some files off an external hard drive to my macbook pro. These are mostly video files.
However, there's a handful of files which are causing the following error:
"The operation can’t be completed because the item “XXX” is in use."
I've no idea what's wrong but would appriaicte some help. All the previous threads I can find with the same error are related to moving items to the trash and I actually followed some of the advice (shutting down etc) but it still didn't help.
Thanks anyone and everyone for the assistance.
James

I was investigating this same problem on our iMac running OS 10.10. When I checked Activity Monitor for the DiskUnmountWatcher process, I noticed that with two users logged in simultaneously, there were two instances of most of the system processes, including that one. If I logged out of the other user account, and consequently only had one instance of the DiskUnmountWatcher process running, I was able to copy multiple files onto the network drive with no problem.
If I were to speculate, I'd probably guess that DiskUnmountWatcher is adding some metadata to new files when it detects them being added to a mounted drive. If there are two instances of the process running, they both try to modify the file's metadata simultaneously and generate errors.
TL;DR: If you encounter this problem, try logging out all users other than the one trying to move files.

Similar Messages

  • Cannot backup my files / copy my files and folders due to error message " The operation can't be completed because an item with the name ".DS_Store" already exists. "

    Hi Apple community!
    I have a [rather worrying] problem.
    When I try to copy all my files from my documents on my mac [or the entire documents folder] into an external drive, I get this error message
    " The operation can’t be completed because an item with the name “.DS_Store” already exists. "
    I am not given an option to skip this file or anything else.
    But I simply cannot complete the operation!
    I have tried deleting a few of the .ds_store files, [both in the original and in the destinations]
    but no success.
    The same thing keeps happening.
    At first, this was just happening when I was trying to backup to my dropbox folder [the one on my mac's harddrive, which gets synced to the cloud],
    but then I tried to back up my documents to my external hard drive, and I realized it is giving me the same error message.
    So effectively, it seems I cannot backup my files anywhere!
    Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated.
    Thank you.

    Please read this whole message before doing anything.
    This procedure is a diagnostic test. It’s unlikely to solve your problem. Don’t be disappointed when you find that nothing has changed after you complete it.
    The purpose of the test is to determine whether the problem is caused by third-party software that loads automatically at startup or login, by a peripheral device, or by corruption of certain system caches. 
    Disconnect all wired peripherals except those needed for the test, and remove all aftermarket expansion cards. Boot in safe mode and log in to the account with the problem. Note: If FileVault is enabled on some models, or if a firmware password is set, or if the boot volume is a software RAID, you can’t do this. Ask for further instructions.
    Safe mode is much slower to boot and run than normal, and some things won’t work at all, including sound output and  Wi-Fi on certain iMacs. The next normal boot may also be somewhat slow.
    The login screen appears even if you usually log in automatically. You must know your login password in order to log in. If you’ve forgotten the password, you will need to reset it before you begin. Test while in safe mode. Same problem? After testing, reboot as usual (i.e., not in safe mode) and verify that you still have the problem. Post the results of the test.

  • The operation can't be completed because some items had to be skipped. For each item, choose File Get Info, make sure "Locked" is deselected, and then check t

    The following error comes up when I try to install the updated Firefox:
    "The operation can’t be completed because some items had to be skipped. For each item, choose File > Get Info, make sure “Locked” is deselected, and then check the Sharing & Permissions section. When you are sure the items are unlocked and not designated as Read Only or No Access, try again."
    When I follow the instructions in the error message, it shows that my user name has read and write access. There are a couple other items that are read only. I tried to change this to read and write, but the Sharing and Permissions options are greyed out and will not let me change them. What is the work around for this? I would really like to install the new firefox.
    Thanks.

    Hello,
    Certain Firefox problems can be solved by performing a ''Clean reinstall''. This means you remove Firefox program files and then reinstall Firefox. Please follow these steps:
    '''Note:''' You might want to print these steps or view them in another browser.
    #Download the latest Desktop version of Firefox from http://www.mozilla.org and save the setup file to your computer.
    #After the download finishes, close all Firefox windows (click Exit from the Firefox or File menu).
    #Delete the Firefox installation folder, which is located in one of these locations, by default('''This will NOT delete profile info such as bookmarks and history'''):
    #*'''Windows:'''
    #**C:\Program Files\Mozilla Firefox
    #**C:\Program Files (x86)\Mozilla Firefox
    #*'''Mac:''' Delete Firefox from the Applications folder.
    #*'''Linux:''' If you installed Firefox with the distro-based package manager, you should use the same way to uninstall it - see [[Installing Firefox on Linux]]. If you downloaded and installed the binary package from the [http://www.mozilla.org/firefox#desktop Firefox download page], simply remove the folder ''firefox'' in your home directory.
    #Now, go ahead and reinstall Firefox:
    ##Double-click the downloaded installation file and go through the steps of the installation wizard.
    ##Once the wizard is finished, choose to directly open Firefox after clicking the Finish button.
    Please report back to see if this helped you!
    Thank you.

  • The operation can't be completed because backup items can't be modified.

    In my Time Machine backup, I have also stored backups from my previous Mac. They do not appear in the "Star Wars" screen. When I try to delete files I receive the message: "The operation can’t be completed because backup items can’t be modified."
    What does this mean, and is there a way to delete said files?
    (My Time Machine backup is plugged in and running. The files are not even sent into the Trash, so my question doesn't relate to whether the files will delete from the trashcan, etc.)
    Many thanks in advance for any and all help!

    While in Time Machine, press the key combination shift-command-C. The front window will show all mounted volumes. All snapshots should now be accessible. Select the one you want and navigate to the files you want to delete. Right-click or control-click an item. From the popup menu, select Delete All Backups of... Confirm. Exit Time Machine.

  • Error message "The operation can't be completed because an item with the name .DS_Store already exists"

    Major headaches with copying files and folders between drives. I constantly (and I mean constantly) have to resort to copying files across in small batches (fewer than 10 works best) because anytime I try to copy lots of files and folders from my mac to an external hard drive (or from one external HD to a second external HD), I ALWAYS get the error message  "The operation can't be completed because an item with the name .DS_Store already exists".
    The files and folders are all Mac-generated, so hint or trace of foreign OSs in the mix.
    All file types are susceptible
    the HDs are all Mac OS X formatted, no foreign file formats involved
    the HDs are all journal-enabled, OS X extended formats
    have looked on here for previous posts, past suggestion was to disable creation of DS_Store files - not really a solution and realistically, defeats the purpose of their creation
    any ideas anyone?
    would appreciate any thoughts or sugestions, this has got me beat
    the context is that I have a lot of image files that I am copying (trying to...) new external 3TB drives for backup and the job appears endless if I have to do this in batches of 10 or so..!
    many thanks for any suggestions

    This is definitively a nuisance. When copying large amounts of files between volumes  try opening a terminal window and use use ditto. You need to type the directory paths of the source and the destination volume. When it starts ditto just coupes and optionally overwrites anything on the destination. You can get a verbose mode where it lists all activities.
    gunnars-mac-mini-i7:Volumes gunnar$ man ditto
    NAME
         ditto -- copy directory hierarchies, create and extract archives
    SYNOPSIS
         ditto [-v] [-V] [-X] [<options>] src ... dst_directory
         ditto [-v] [-V] [<options>] src_file dst_file
         ditto -c [-z | -j | -k] [-v] [-V] [-X] [<options>] src dst_archive
         ditto -x [-z | -j | -k] [-v] [-V] [<options>] src_archive ... dst_directory
         ditto -h | --help

  • Problem with copying to external drives 10.8.3 "the operation can't be completed because an item with the name .ds_store exists"

    After upgrading from 10.7.5 to 10.8.3 I cannot copy certain folders to any external drive. the operation can't be completed because an item with the name .ds_store exists. I have seen this problem in discussions for many years with no real solution. Does anyone have a resolution? Please help. This is very frustrating as I work in two locations and copy folders back in forth all the time.

    Please read this whole message before doing anything.
    This procedure is a diagnostic test. It’s unlikely to solve your problem. Don’t be disappointed when you find that nothing has changed after you complete it.
    The purpose of the test is to determine whether the problem is caused by third-party software that loads automatically at startup or login, or by a peripheral device. 
    Disconnect all wired peripherals except those needed for the test, and remove all aftermarket expansion cards. Boot in safe mode and log in to the account with the problem. Note: If FileVault is enabled, or if a firmware password is set, or if the boot volume is a software RAID, you can’t do this. Ask for further instructions.
    Safe mode is much slower to boot and run than normal, and some things won’t work at all, including Wi-Fi on certain iMacs. The next normal boot may also be somewhat slow.
    The login screen appears even if you usually log in automatically. You must know your login password in order to log in. If you’ve forgotten the password, you will need to reset it before you begin. Test while in safe mode. Same problem? After testing, reboot as usual (i.e., not in safe mode) and verify that you still have the problem. Post the results of the test.

  • Can't copy Aperature Library to external.  Get this error "The operation can't be completed because an item is being modified."

    I have been trying to find a solution to this problem by browsing this forum but I can't seem to find a solution.
    As many others have decided to do I want to copy my Aperature library to an external FW 800 drive as my laptop space is dwindling.  It seems all you need to do is copy the Library from the finder which can also be revealed in the preference if Aperature.  When copying it seems to transfer for a few seconds but then I get this error "The operation can’t be completed because an item is being modified."  I have formatted the drive correctly and there is no issues with Aperature itself so why do you think I am having this error?  What can I do to copy this Library to my external?

    Reboot your machine make sure Aperture doesn't start (as Lion is liable to do) and try it.

  • Operation can't be completed because an item of same name already exists - Mavericks

    I am trying to copy a large file folder (of a large iTunes library of music files) from a WD Live NAS drive to a new AirPlay Time Capsule via Finder on my Retina MBP. Every time I try it, I get the same error "operation can't be completed because an item of the same name already exists."
    I have tried a number of the following solutions:
    1. I cleared my cache out as in this thread:
    https://discussions.apple.com/thread/2231287?start=120&tstart=0
    2. I tried using the Terminal app, as in this thread:
    https://discussions.apple.com/message/21786245#21786245
    3. I tried closing both Finder windows once I started the copy operation, as in this thread:
    https://discussions.apple.com/thread/2231287?start=105&tstart=0
    4. I tried deleting/renaming all files that contained a ~ as in a thread I can't find right now.
    All of these things are not working. I was able to copy several other large file folders (mostly of videos) without a hitch. I can't figure it out. Can anyone assist?
    Many thanks...

    subcrapper wrote:
    "have you tried using Disk Utility to erase 1TB HHD and reformat before trying to copy the data back?"
    Yes, I had to format the 1TB to FAT before I use it.
    whoa there. why did you format the drive FAT? that's an obsolete windows drive format and OS X is known to have various issues with it. this may easily account for your problems. strongly suggest you reformat the drive mac os extended.
    "have you tried using the restore option within Disk Utility to copy the data back instead of doing it manually?"
    There's nothing on the 1TB to restore because I sent it in for warranty exchange. So its brand new, nothing in it.
    he was suggesting that you use the restore tab in disk utility to copy the 640GB drive to the new 1TB one. that's what I suggested too but I mentioned using superduper or CCCloner.
    but you really should reformat the drive first. the only reason to use FAT is if you want to use the drive from both mac and windows. but then you'll likely have to live with the quirks of FAT and OS X.

  • Operation can't be completed because an item of same name already exist

    Hi, my first post. I've search the net for similar problems but nothing exact.
    I have a Maxtor OneTouch 4 (1TB)that just returned cos I got it exchanged. While it was being exchanged, I used a Maxtor OneTouch (640GB). I had transferred everything from my 1TB to the 640GB.
    Now that the 1TB's back, I want to transfer everything back. But when I try to transfer anything from the 640GB to the 1TB, an error message appears saying "operation can't be completed because an item "(of same name)" already exist."
    After I click OK on the error message, only the folder gets copied over to the 1TB but NONE of its contents.
    This only happens when I transfer folders. If I were to transfer individual files, e.g a picture, it's successful.
    Things that do work:
    - transferring files and folders from computer to both HDDs
    - transferring files and folders from either HDDs to computer
    So the only problem is transfers between both HDDs.
    I read some thread that repairing permissions might help but when I enter Disk Utility, "Verify Disk permissions" or "Repair Disk Permissions" are both greyed out.
    Does anybody have experience with this problem? Please help, the 640GB is exploding!
    Thanks in advance!

    subcrapper wrote:
    "have you tried using Disk Utility to erase 1TB HHD and reformat before trying to copy the data back?"
    Yes, I had to format the 1TB to FAT before I use it.
    whoa there. why did you format the drive FAT? that's an obsolete windows drive format and OS X is known to have various issues with it. this may easily account for your problems. strongly suggest you reformat the drive mac os extended.
    "have you tried using the restore option within Disk Utility to copy the data back instead of doing it manually?"
    There's nothing on the 1TB to restore because I sent it in for warranty exchange. So its brand new, nothing in it.
    he was suggesting that you use the restore tab in disk utility to copy the 640GB drive to the new 1TB one. that's what I suggested too but I mentioned using superduper or CCCloner.
    but you really should reformat the drive first. the only reason to use FAT is if you want to use the drive from both mac and windows. but then you'll likely have to live with the quirks of FAT and OS X.

  • The operation could not be completed because an item with the name xyz already exists

    I am trying to make a click and drag backup on an external FAT 32 drive to compliment my Time Machine backup (long story) and I've done this each time by dragging my critical folders into the drive. I get a message asking me to stop, replace or skip, and whether to apply to all items. i click replace, apply all, and let it go.
    however, one stubborn folder refuses to comply. every single time I click and drag a group of folder that includes that one, I get a message saying "the operation could not be completed because an item with the name xyz already exists" even after I selected the the "apply all" prompt. at which point, the Mac stops transferring ALL the other files.
    I figured, OK, i'll just transfer the other folders individually and then deal with this folder later. so I do that, and once I get to the offending folder, I try to transfer just that one folder into the drive. no good; I get the operation message again. I decide to just transfer the contents of the folder, rather than the folder itself. No good, I just get the operation message about one of the folders within the main folder.
    anyone know the cause, or at least a fix?

    If you've installed a system modification called "TotalFinder," remove it according to the developer's instructions after backing up all data. Log out, log back in, and try again.
    Otherwise, open the Info dialog on both the source and the destination volumes. What is the Format of each? For example, it might be "Mac OS Extended (Journaled)".
    For some other possible solutions, see:
    operation can't be completed because an...: Apple Support Communities

  • The operation can't be completed because an item with the name ".DS_Store" already exists

    I everytime get this error when i try to copy files/ folders from my Macbook pro to my External Hard Drive
    What is wrong ?
    why do i get this error
    Can any one help
    Satish Ramnani

    If you've installed a system modification called "TotalFinder," remove it according to the developer's instructions after backing up all data. Log out, log back in, and try again.
    Otherwise, open the Info dialog on both the source and the destination volumes. What is the Format of each? For example, it might be "Mac OS Extended (Journaled)".
    For some other possible solutions, see:
    operation can't be completed because an...: Apple Support Communities

  • A PDF file was filed in documents. when trying to move this file to trash i got response : operation can't be completed because the itempdf is in usen

    A PDF file was filed in DOCUMENTS, when trying to move this PDF file to trash I got the response: "Operation can't be completed because the item ..... is in use".
    How do I get this document deleted from the system?

    The suggestion to move items from documetns to desktop and then moving to trash is the one that worked.
    I have now one other question and that is that during my strugle with the original problem I called with Apple helpline and there they suggested to move the application "Preview" to trash and then the  issue would be solved. I did so but clearly the issue was not solved.
    Bottom line is that with your solution I got rid of the PDF files, but I still need to reinstall the Preview application. Do you have suggestions how to do that??

  • Can't move any files... "The operation can't be completed because you don't have permission to access some of the items."

    This is a strange one... I just recently did a complete format/reinstall of Lion because of very poor performance after upgrading.
    So I'm on a totally fresh system, no TimeMachine restore or anything. I've installed all my apps from scratch - no prefrence file backups or anything. Everything is fresh.
    Yesterday I tried to copy a file from one folder to another and I got the error "The operation can’t be completed because you don’t have permission to access some of the items". Checked file permissions... repaired disk permissions... made sure I was logged in as admin (I only have one account)... everything looks good.
    This is now happening when trying to copy any files anywhere on my machine... Very frustrating.
    There's a couple strange side-effects I've noticed:
    - I can move & copy files just fine in terminal... without sudo...
    - The little lock icon in the bottom right of the Get Info window doesn't do anything - I can't unlock it. I can still edit the permissions for the file/folder but I can't select the "apply to enclosed items..." option.
    Does anybody know what the heck is going on?

    jsd2 wrote:
    Try creating a new admin user account, logging into it, and then creating some new items on the Desktop and elsewhere. Does the same thing happen there?
    Ok the strangeness continues!
    I created a new "TestAdmin" account, but it doesn't show up in the Users & Groups prefrences sidebar... The /Users/testadmin folder was created, but the account doesn't show up in the prefrences or login window...
    I tried a reboot to see if the account would show up and it still doesnt.... However after the reboot I am now able to copy files again!
    I'm paranoid that the problem will show up again since I have no idea what fixed it. I tried rebooting previously after repairing permissions which didn't solve the issue so it's not like I haven't rebooted since it started.
    And now I have the issue of not being able to create user accounts.
    A little dissapointed with Lion to be honest... the new features are cool but there are so many little bugs it really feels half-baked.

  • When I try to move files from my mac (v10.8.5) to my external harddrive I get the error message The operation can't be completed because an unexpected error occurred (error code -50).

    When I try to move files from my imac (v10.8.5) to my external harddrive I get the error message "The operation can’t be completed because an unexpected error occurred (error code -50)." How can I resolve this? Thank you.

    Some other things to look at.
    https://www.google.com/search?btnG=1&pws=0&q=The+operation+cannot+be+completed+b ecause+an+unexpected+error+occurred+(error+code+-50

  • Error 8062 when I try to copy or move files on my macbook: "This operation could not be completed because an unexpected error occurred (error code -8062)". Can even not install new software now!!

    Since a few days when I try to copy or move files on my macbook, I often get an error message saying "This operation could not be completed because an unexpected error occured (error code -8062)". And then it just quits the copy or move.
    I searched a lot on the internet, but only found solutions for cases you cannot empty the trash due to this issue.
    I tried those solutions for my trash and that helped after some trying.
    However, I still have the problem with copying and moving files.
    I even cannot install new software now, as it has to copy itself to the programs-directory, and gives the same error-message.
    Who can help me??
    Cannot seem to find any info on it on the support-forums or elsewhere.
    My user-account is administrator, I use a 13" Macbook Aluminium (Late 2008). Mac OS X 10.6.8 CPU 2Ghz Intel Core Duo, RAM: 4GB 1067 MHz DDR3.
    Any help would be greatly appreciated...
    Otto

    Tips I received so far (thanks to A-Mac via Twitter http://www.a-mac.nl and Remco Kalf http://www.remcokalf.nl/)
    - make sure you have at least 10% of your harddisk in free space (I had only 5%).
    - do a PRAM-reset (http://support.apple.com/kb/ht1379)
    - perform a hardware test (http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1509)
    - make a complete backup (with for example Carbone Clone Copier, see http://www.bombich.com/)
    - after complete backup: use diskwarrior (boot from Diskwarrior DVD, first perform diagnostics, then perform "Rebuild" which rebuilds your file directory).
    So far I only cleared up some space on my HD, and already the problem occurs less.
    Still, I will go through the other tips too.
    (will post progress)

Maybe you are looking for