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Migrating a SharePoint site to another site, whether within the same tenant or to a different tenant, can seem complex at first. I’ve handled several SharePoint migrations over the years, and I know that a successful move requires careful planning, the right tools, and a clear understanding of how data and permissions behave during the transition.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about SharePoint site-to-site migration, including key considerations, step-by-step methods, and proven tips to ensure a smooth migration.

What Is SharePoint Site-to-Site Migration?

SharePoint site-to-site migration refers to the process of moving content, configurations, and permissions from one SharePoint site (the source) to another (the destination). This can happen in two common scenarios:

1. Within the same tenant (intra-tenant migration) – Moving content from one site collection or subsite to another within the same SharePoint Online environment.

2. Across different tenants (inter-tenant migration) – Transferring content between two separate Microsoft 365 tenants (often after mergers, acquisitions, or rebranding).

Depending on your needs, this migration can include:

• Document libraries and lists

• Pages and web parts

• Site permissions and metadata

• Workflows and customizations

Also read: how to create a workflow in SharePoint

Why I Recommend Planning Before Migrating

From experience, I can say that most migration issues stem from lack of planning. Before moving data, I always evaluate the following:

• Content structure: Identify which lists, libraries, and pages are worth moving. Avoid clutter.

• Permissions: Map users and groups in advance—especially important if you’re migrating to another tenant.

• Storage and quotas: Ensure the target site has enough space and proper configuration.

• Versioning and metadata: Decide if you want to retain version history and metadata during migration.

• Customizations and workflows: Check for Power Automate flows, InfoPath forms, or third-party add-ins that might break.

Having this clarity upfront prevents downtime and data loss later.

Methods to Migrate a SharePoint Site to Another Site

Over time, I’ve used different methods depending on project size, complexity, and compliance needs. Below are the most reliable options:

1. Manual Migration (Best for Small Sites)

If you’re only dealing with a small amount of content, the simplest method is to manually move files.

Steps:

1. Go to the source SharePoint site.

2. Open the document library or list you want to move.

3. Select the files or folders.

4. Click Move to or Copy to in the toolbar.

5. Choose the destination site and target document library.

6. Wait until the transfer completes.

I use this approach when migrating lightweight sites or departmental libraries.

Related article: Export SharePoint List to Excel

2. Using PowerShell (Scripting-Based Migration)

For larger migrations or repeated tasks, I prefer using PowerShell with SharePoint Online Management Shell or PnP.PowerShell module. It allows me to automate file transfers efficiently.

Example:

# Connect to source and destination sites

Connect-PnPOnline -Url "https://source.sharepoint.com/sites/sourceSite" -Interactive

Connect-PnPOnline -Url "https://destination.sharepoint.com/sites/destinationSite" -Interactive

# Copy a document library

Copy-PnPFile -SourceUrl "/sites/sourceSite/Shared Documents" `

              -TargetUrl "/sites/destinationSite/Shared Documents" `

              -OverwriteIfAlreadyExists

3. Using SPMT

Microsoft’s SPMT is a free, official utility that supports moving data from on-premises or local storage to SharePoint Online. However, it can also help with site-level content transfers within the same tenant.

Steps:

1. Download and install the SPMT from Microsoft.

2. Sign in with your Microsoft 365 account.

3. Choose SharePoint Online as both source and destination.

4. Select the content you want to move.

5. Configure user mappings and permissions.

6. Start the migration and monitor progress through the dashboard.

I rely on SPMT for moving site libraries or lists where preserving metadata is crucial.

4. Using Professional Migration Tools

When I handle large-scale or complex SharePoint site-to-site migrations, I always rely on the 100% Secure SharePoint Online Migration Tool. It’s a powerful and reliable solution designed to make the entire migration process smooth, secure, and error-free.

What I like most about it is that it takes care of every critical aspect of migration from documents, lists, libraries, and sites to permissions, metadata, and version history — all in one go. I don’t have to worry about losing structure, formatting, or user access because the tool preserves everything during the transfer.

The interface is clean and intuitive, so even first-time users can perform a site migration without technical complications. Personally, I’ve found the automation and scheduling options extremely useful for large projects where timing and accuracy are critical.

Best Practices I Follow for Smooth Migration

To ensure zero disruption and high data integrity, here are some of the practices I’ve found most effective:

1. Run a Pre-Migration Assessment: Identify unused lists or outdated content before transferring.

2. Perform a Test Migration: Always migrate a pilot site first to check configurations and permissions.

3. Backup Critical Data: Even if tools promise safety, I create backups using OneDrive or PowerShell scripts.

4. Communicate with Users: Inform teams about timelines, expected downtime, and post-migration changes.

5. Validate Post-Migration: Verify file counts, permissions, workflows, and links to ensure everything works correctly.

Following these steps has saved me from countless post-migration troubleshooting issues.

Final Thoughts

Migrating a SharePoint site to another site doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With proper planning, testing, and the right tools, you can ensure a seamless transition with minimal risk.

From my experience, I’ve learned that no single method fits all scenarios. Small migrations can be handled manually or via PowerShell, but for larger or tenant-level moves, I always prefer a reliable migration solution.

If you’re planning your first SharePoint site-to-site migration, take the time to assess your environment, choose the right approach, and validate the results thoroughly—it will save you hours of troubleshooting later.