Destination Path Too Long Error When Moving/Copying a File

If you are receiving an error “Destination Path Too Long” when trying to copy or move a file to a folder, try the quick trick below. The reason you are receiving the error is because Windows Explorer will fail to copy/delete/rename any path-name longer than 256 characters. The instructions below apply to Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2008, and Windows Server 2012.

Destination Path Too Long

Full Error: “The file name(s) would be too long for the destination folder. You can shorten the file name and try again, or try a location that has a shorter path.”

Screenshot of “Destination Path Too Long” error on Windows Server 2008

Screenshot of “Destination Path Too Long” error on Windows 8

Step 1

The quickest fix for this, especially if you are needing to simply migrate a lot of folders from one place to another is to map a drive to the drilled down folder.
What I would do is browse to the hidden share path and copy it to your clipboard.

Step 2

Then browse to “Computer” or “My Computer” and click on Map Network Drive. Depending on your OS it might appear under the tools menu.

Step 3

Then simply paste your long path and hit Finish.

Step 4

Now you will be able to copy the files/folders into this location without receiving that error.