Google Drive Stuck on Zipping Files
Workaround available Web (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge) Updated October 21, 2026
Quick answer
When you download a folder, Drive zips it on the server first; large folders often hang on 'Zipping' or 'Preparing download'. Download in smaller batches, clear your browser cache or switch browsers, or use Drive for desktop to copy the folder without zipping.
Most likely fix: Download in smaller batches.
Symptoms
The 'Zipping 1 file' / 'Preparing download' box never finishes, the zip never starts downloading, or the download splits into many zip parts.
Why it happens
- Folder too large (guides cite roughly 2GB per zip as a practical limit)
- Too many files in one folder
- Browser freezing or blocking the download (e.g. Safari cross-site tracking)
- Unstable network connection
How to fix it
Try these in order — the most common fix is first.
1. Download in smaller batches
- Select fewer files or subfolders at a time
- Keep each batch well under ~2GB
2. Clear browser cache and cookies
- Chrome: three-dot menu > Delete browsing data
- Time range: All time; tick Cookies and site data and Cached images and files
- Clear data and retry
3. Try another browser
- Retry in Chrome, Firefox or Edge
- On Safari, users report that turning off Prevent cross-site tracking lets the zip download
4. Use Drive for desktop instead
- Install Drive for desktop and sign in
- Open the folder in the Google Drive drive in Finder/File Explorer and copy it to your computer - no zipping needed
5. Restart and retry
- Restart your computer and your router if the connection drops
- Start the download again
This guide also covers
- google drive zipping stuck
- google drive preparing download stuck
- google drive zip not downloading
- google drive folder download not working
Still not working?
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