Every company is looking for ways to streamline data management and modernise collaboration in today’s digital workspace. One of the popular steps toward this modernisation is migration from On-Premises SharePoint or file servers to SharePoint Online. While there are many migration processes available, PowerShell remains a go-to tool for IT Pros. It allows you to have all in one line of command, like automation, precision, and control.
But here’s the curveball: if not maintained properly, PowerShell migrations can get complex.
So, in this guide, we’ll learn how to migrate to SharePoint Online using PowerShell, what you have to know before we start, and how you make the process error-free and seamless.
Why do you have to migrate to SharePoint Online?
Before we dive into deep PowerShell scripts, let’s learn why multiple companies are moving to SharePoint Online.
- Files living in the cloud are not locked inside a server room.
- Office 365 encryption and compliance standards keep your data safe.
- Whether you are a large business or a small organisation, SharePoint Online adapts to your growth.
- Version control, Real-Time editing, and shared access make teamwork effortless.
In other words: Migrating to SharePoint Online is just not an upgrade; it’s a digital transformation.
Why do you have to use PowerShell for Migration tasks?
When you prefer automation and control, PowerShell is your pal. Unlike GUI-based tools that may limit what you can customize, PowerShell gives you full control over your migration.
Here’s why IT pros like it:
Here’s why IT admins love it:
- Automates repetitive tasks
- Handles large data migrations
- Allows advanced configurations
- Offers error tracking and detailed logs
Moreover, PowerShell scripts can be reused and modified, making future migrations much easier.
Ensure your environment before you migrate to SharePoint Online using PowerShell.
Before you run any commands, confirm first that your environment is prepared. Here’s a quick checklist:
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Verify prerequisites | Install the latest SharePoint Online Management Shell |
| Permissions | Confirm that you’re a SharePoint Administrator |
| Stable Network | Make sure you have a stable internet connection for data transfer |
| Data Backup | Before migration, always back up your source data |
| Site Structure | Organize your lists, libraries, and permissions beforehand |
Tip: Preparation saves a lot of troubleshooting later.
Steps: How to Migrate to SharePoint Online Using PowerShell
Now, let’s go through the migration process.
Task 1: Download and Install the SharePoint Online Management Shell.
- Firstly, you have to download and run the SharePoint Online Management Shell from Microsoft’s website.
- Once it is installed, launch it and connect your SharePoint Online Tenant using this command:
Connect-SPOService -Url https://yourtenant-admin.sharepoint.com
Hit your admin credentials when prompted.
Task 2: Preparation of the Source and Destination Paths
Note the source folder (local drive or SharePoint Server) and the destination site before you start migration in SharePoint Online. Eg:
$source = “C:\CompanyData”
$destination = “https://yourtenant.sharepoint.com/sites/Marketing/Shared Documents”
Task 3: Use the Migration Package with PowerShell
Microsoft has a tool named the SharePoint Migration Tool (SPMT), which allows PowerShell commands.
You can easily create and run the migration package using:
Set-SPMTMigration -Source $source -Target $destination -MigrateAllVersions -PreservePermissions
This command confirms that your file version and permission migrate along with your data.
Task 4: Monitoring when Migration
During the migration process, it’s essential to monitor logs and progress.
Use:
Get-SPMTMigrationProgress
This command allows you to identify if any folders and files failed to transfer and why.
Some Challenges you face when you migrate
While PowerShell gives flexibility, it also brings technical challenges:
- Limited error recovery during bulk migrations
- Complex command syntax for non-expects
- No graphical interface for progress monitoring.
Therefore, while PowerShell is powerful, it is not always the easiest option, especially for big-scale or multi-site migrations.
The Smarter Alternative: Shoviv!
When you can’t manage PowerShell scripts that look overwhelming or time-consuming, you can try a more intuitive solution like the Shoviv SharePoint Migration Tool. This utility allows you to migrate to SharePoint Online more easily, faster, and more securely without touching a single line of code.
Plus, this tool has a demo version that lets you process items up to 20 KB in size for free.
In simple words: You get PowerShell-level under control with an easy-to-use interface, no stress, no scripts, just smooth migration.
Conclusion:
Migrating to SharePoint Online using PowerShell lets users have full control and automation power. However, it requires continuous monitoring and technical precision. For small migration tasks or tech-savvy admins, PowerShell works correctly. But if you are looking for a smoother and automated migration scenario, the Shoviv SharePoint Migration tool is a smart choice.
