Moving one file from computer to computer

[Bob M.]

I have an iMac running Mac OS High Sierra, 10.13.6 and I want to move one file folder to my MacBook Pro. The file folder is 15 MB and contains 27 documents. My MacBook Pro is running Mac OS Catalina, 10.15.7. I want to move this file only and no other files, from desktop to desktop.

I first tried AirDrop and was unable to get it to work. Then I tried the utility Migration Assistant but I was also unable to get this to work. Later, I found out that Migration Assistant is designed to move multiple files or the whole contents from one machine to another. I do not want this (I'm only trying to move one file) so I don't think Migration Assistant is right for this particular job. How else can I move this one file from computer to computer? I'm kinda stuck.

Thanks for the help,
Bob M.

 

[RadDave]

Hi Bob - not sure why AirDrop failed? But a few starters: 1) Send an email to yourself with the folder attached and download it on the other computer; 2) Use an external HDD, SSD, or thumb/flash drive; and 3) Use a cloud service, e.g. put the folder in iCloud Drive on one computer and pick it up on the other. Dave

 

[Bob M.]

I used a thumb/flash drive. I dragged the file folder in question to the flash drive then ejected it properly.
I plugged the flash drive into my destination computer (My MacBook laptop), opened the drive and dragged the file in question onto my desktop. Very easy and quick. I don't know why I didn't think of this myself. Thank you.

I don't know why Air Drop failed but I've had problems with it before so I usually try to find another solution.

 

[Rod]

If both devices are signed into the same Apple ID using iCloud Drive is definitely the easiest way to move (share) files folders between devices, including iPhones and iPads but using a portable flash drive is a pretty foolproof, low tech solution. I used that method for years.

 

[MightyGem]

I find that Airdrop can be hit and miss at times. I can have my MBA, MBP and iPhone all awake, and if I choose Airdrop on the MBA, sometimes both the others show up, sometimes only one of them, sometimes neither.