> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://moverdocs.files.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://moverdocs.files.com/how-mover-works.md).

# How Mover Works

Mover performs manual, one-way file migrations using the Files.com transfer engine. Each migration joins one source connection to one destination connection and stores the folders, filters, source-file handling, runs, and results for that job.

A run has two main phases. Mover first lists the source and destination and compares items at matching paths. It then copies the files that are missing or different according to Mover's comparison rules. Folder listing is sequential, while file transfers run in parallel where the connections allow it.

Mover does not continuously watch either location. Files that change after a completed run are not transferred until you start the migration again. Rerunning the same job preserves its connections and options, compares the locations again, and transfers items that are still missing or now report a different size.

## Dry Runs and Live Runs

A dry run performs the listing, comparison, filtering, and validation work without copying or deleting data. Use it to estimate transfer usage and find problems before committing to the live run.

A live run performs the same comparison and then transfers eligible files. Only successfully transferred data counts against a usage pack. Mover records item-level successes, skips, and failures for review after the run.

## What Mover Preserves

Mover recreates the selected folder hierarchy and copies file content. Connection pages document important provider-specific conversions and limits that affect how an item arrives at the destination.

The [File Matching and Data Integrity](/migration-behavior/file-matching-and-data-integrity.md) reference explains exactly how Mover decides whether a file needs to transfer. Review [File and Folder Compatibility](/migration-behavior/file-and-folder-compatibility.md) before migrating between systems with different naming or case rules.

## Mover Compared With Files.com

Mover and Files.com share transfer behavior, but they provide different operating models. Mover is for migration projects that a person starts and reviews. Files.com adds schedules, event triggers, continuous synchronization, and automated workflows for recurring movement.