Sonarr is an amazing tool. It helps you download and organize your favorite TV shows automatically. But what do you do when it stops moving your completed files? If you’re using Windows 10 and wondering why your brand-new episodes are stuck in your download folder, you’re not alone.
TL;DR
Sonarr not moving files? Don’t panic! This is usually caused by incorrect paths, poor folder permissions, or communication problems with your download client. A few tweaks can fix it fast. Keep reading to become the Sonarr whisperer!
Why Sonarr Might Not Be Moving Files
Before diving into the fix, let’s understand why this could be happening. The problem usually boils down to one of these:
- Path misconfigurations
- Wrong folder permissions
- The download client isn’t reporting properly
- Completed download handling disabled
Let’s go step-by-step and fix these issues. You can do it!
1. Check the Basics First
Let’s start with the simplest stuff—because sometimes it is the simple things.
- Restart Sonarr and your download client. A fresh start never hurt anybody.
- Make sure the download completed. If it didn’t finish, how will Sonarr move it?
- Are the files where they’re supposed to be? Sometimes they’re moved but to an unexpected folder.
If all that checks out, it’s time to dig deeper.
2. Enable Completed Download Handling
This is a common oversight. If “Completed Download Handling” is turned off in Sonarr, it won’t try to import anything.
- Open the Sonarr web interface.
- Go to Settings > Download Client.
- Scroll down to Completed Download Handling.
- Make sure it is enabled.
If it was off, turn it on and do a happy dance.
3. Check Your Paths
Sonarr uses paths to find and move files. If the paths aren’t set right, Sonarr gets confused. It’s like trying to navigate a new city without GPS.
Here’s what to check:
- Download folder path – Does it match what your torrent or NZB client is using?
- TV show folder path – Does it still exist? Has it been renamed?
- Are you mixing mapped drives and UNC paths? That’s a big no-no. Stick to one kind.
Best practice: Use full UNC paths like \\PCName\Downloads instead of drive letters like D:\Downloads.
Why? Because your download client and Sonarr might run under different users or services. And what looks like D: to you might not exist for them.
4. Folder Permissions
This is a silent killer. If Sonarr doesn’t have permission to move files into or out of a folder, it just… doesn’t.
Here’s how to check and fix permissions:
- Right-click the folder Sonarr or the download client uses.
- Select Properties > Security tab.
- Make sure the user that Sonarr runs under (often NETWORK SERVICE or your own user) has Full Control.
Set “Full Control” for both the source (downloads folder) and the destination (TV shows folder).
Apply and save settings. Try a test download to see if things move now!
5. Check the Download Client Connection
Sonarr relies on your download app (like uTorrent, qBittorrent, SABnzbd, or NZBGet) to tell it when a download is done.
If the connection between Sonarr and that app isn’t working, Sonarr won’t know a file is finished.
Do this:
- Go to Sonarr’s Settings > Download Client.
- Click Test on your configured client.
If it fails, edit the client settings:
- Check the right IP or localhost address
- Use the correct port
- Update your API key (if needed)
You should see a green check mark after the test. Success!
6. Use Manual Import (When All Else Fails)
If you’ve tried everything and the files still aren’t moving, do a manual import:
- In Sonarr, go to Wanted > Manual Import.
- Select the folder with your completed downloads.
- Sonarr will scan it and let you import the files manually.
It’s a bit more work, but it makes sure your shows still land where they belong.
Pro Tips to Keep Everything Smooth
- Run Sonarr and your download client as Administrator.
- Avoid moving or renaming download folders. Stick to a setup and don’t change it.
- Keep Sonarr updated. New releases fix old bugs!
- Don’t download to network drives unless you really have to. They can be slower and permission-restricted.
Use Logs Like a Detective
If you’re still stuck, the logs are your best friend. Here’s how to peek into Sonarr’s secret diary:
- Go to System > Logs.
- Click Info, Warning, or Error tabs.
Look for lines mentioning paths, import failures, or permission errors. Even if you don’t understand everything, it might give you clues.
Copy-paste error messages into Google or Reddit… Someone else probably had the same issue!
Recap: Checklist to Fix Sonarr Not Moving Files on Windows 10
- ✅ Restart Sonarr and your download app
- ✅ Turn on Completed Download Handling
- ✅ Fix the folder paths
- ✅ Check folder permissions
- ✅ Test the connection to your download client
- ✅ Try a manual import
- ✅ Read the logs if all else fails
Final Thoughts
Sonarr is smart, but it needs a little help from you to stay on track. Think of it as your robotic assistant—it can handle the heavy lifting, but you still have to show it where to go.
Hopefully, now your episodes are back where they belong—nicely sorted, renamed, and waiting for your next binge session!
Happy watching!