fix google forms file upload failed issues

If you’ve ever encountered the frustrating “upload failed” error while using Google Forms or trying to submit a file through a Google survey form, you’re not alone. This issue can be a roadblock when you’re trying to collect important data or receive files from respondents.

In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind the Google Forms upload failed problem and provide simple solutions to get your uploads working smoothly.

Whether you’re a student submitting assignments or a professional gathering information, we’ve got you covered. 

So, let’s get started and troubleshoot this common challenge that can be resolved with just a few clicks after signing in to your Google Forms account.  

Common Causes of Google Form File Upload Failure

Google Form File Upload Failure

While the ‘file upload failed’ issue on Google Forms can have various causes, some of the common reasons include:

  • You’re using a shared Google account to access the Google Form.
  • Your web browser may be incompatible or out-of-date with the uploading of the file with an incompatible file format.
  • Outdated cached data 
  • The file size is too large to submit
  • The Google form file upload limit has already been reached

How to Fix File Upload Error on Google Forms

Now that we understand the potential causes of failed file uploads, let’s explore the various resolution options for file upload issues on Google Forms.

1. Examine Your Storage Capacity

Your Google account includes 15GB of complimentary cloud storage space, which is shared with other Google services like Photos and Gmail, not exclusive to Drive. If your file is not synchronizing to Drive, it’s possible that you have reached your storage limit.

The easiest way to check is by accessing Google One’s storage page, where you can see how much storage each Google service is occupying. If your Google cloud storage is full, you’ll need to delete files or purchase additional storage space.

Additionally, keep in mind that Google Drive has a maximum file size (details can be found in the Google Drive Help Centre), so if your file is too large, you’ll need to resize it.

Related: Cloud backup solution to protect your Google Workspace data

2. Clear the Browser’s Cache to Resolve the File Upload Problem

Clearing the browser cache is one of the most effective ways to resolve file upload issues on Google Forms. Accumulated cache files can often hinder basic browsing functions such as file uploading. Follow these steps for a simple solution:

  • Click the three-dot icon in the upper-right corner of the browser and select “Settings.”
    google browser setting privacy and security
  • Expand “Privacy and Security” in the left-hand sidebar and click on “Clear Browsing Data.”
    clear browsing data
  • Select “Clear browsing data” from the list, then click the “Clear Data” button to clear the browser’s temporary cache files.
  • Reload the Google Forms page and check if the file upload problem has been resolved.

3. Rename Your File

Sometimes, files with certain characters in their names fail to sync. If your file contains characters such as >, /, ?, or *, remove them. While these characters are often not permitted in file names based on your operating system, they may occasionally be inserted in error by programs.

It’s best to completely rename the file using only letters and numbers. Check if this resolves the issue with the file.

If that doesn’t work, try saving your file in a different format if possible. This can be a useful test, as Google Drive may have difficulties with the original file format.

4. Restart the Google Drive Application

It’s an old troubleshooting technique, but it’s often effective. Try restarting the Google Drive client to see if it resolves the file uploading issues.

To do this, click the Google Drive icon in the system tray (bottom-right on Windows, top-left on Mac). Then click the gear icon and select “Exit.” Relaunch the application afterwards.

5. Use Private/Incognito Browsing Mode

If you frequently install browser extensions on Google Chrome, a recent installation may have caused issues with file uploading on your Google Form.

To avoid this problem, try uploading your file using the incognito/private browsing mode, which disables all installed extensions by default.

  • Launch Google Chrome and press Ctrl + Shift + N to open the Incognito Window. Similarly, pressing Ctrl + Shift + P on Firefox will open the Private Browsing mode.
  • Check your Google Form in this mode to see if the file upload problem has been resolved.

6. Use a Personal Google Account

It is often observed that users who fill out a form with a shared Google account are more likely to experience file upload issues. To prevent this from happening, always use your own Google account to fill out and upload files to Google Forms.

Alternatively, you can switch to a different Google account by clicking the “Transfer Account” link next to your email address.

7. Use an Alternative Browser to Upload the File

If you frequently encounter file upload issues while using a specific web browser, you can try using a different browser to upload files to your Google form.

You can upload the same file using various web browsers such as Firefox, Brave, Opera, Safari, and more.

8. Disable Virus Protection and Firewall Software

If you have antivirus software or a firewall enabled, try disabling them to see if your files start syncing. Keep in mind that your computer may require a restart for the changes to take effect.

For example, Windows has Windows Security enabled by default. To disable it, search for Windows Security on your system and open it. Go to “Firewall & network protection” and select your active network. Then, slide the off switch for Microsoft Defender Firewall.

Related: Supercharge Your Google Workspace Data Protection and Security

9. Temporary Server Issues

Google Forms may experience temporary server issues, leading to internal errors when submitting a form. Usually, such errors resolve themselves within a short period of time.

However, if the issue persists, you may need to contact your system administrator or service provider to determine the source of the disruption.

All in all 

Dealing with the “upload failed” problem on Google Forms or Google Survey Forms can be exasperating, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent setback.

By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can overcome this obstacle and ensure smooth file uploads for your data collection needs. 

Remember to sign in to your Google Forms account and apply the suggested solutions, such as checking file size and format or using alternative upload methods.

With these simple tips, you’ll be able to tackle the upload failed issue and make the most of your Google Forms experience.

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Apixel Solution
Apixel Solution
9 months ago

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