How do I move a file in Python?

File moving: choosing the right path

When you decide to move files around in Python, let's dig deeper to understand the crucial distinctions between the various methods available.

Tools for moving: picking the right one

shutil.move() is often the first choice due to its versatility. However, the os module provides os.rename() and os.replace() which have their own use-cases:

• os.rename() is ideal for when shifting file to a new location within the same filesystem. It might throw tantrums otherwise.
• os.replace() is similar to os.rename() but it has a special power. On Windows, it smoothly overwrites the destination file unlike its picky cousin os.rename().

Destination check: preparing for arrival

Before the actual move, ensure your destination directory is ready and existing. Meet pathlib—an object-oriented approach to handle filesystem paths:

from pathlib import Path
/* Knock knock! Is anyone home? */
Path('destination_folder/').mkdir(parents=True, exist_ok=True)
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Cross-filesystem moves and shutil.move(): the hidden performance cost

An important detail: shutil.move() could potentially perform a copy and delete operation when moving files across different filesystems. This can slow things down a little and will require temporary extra space.

Pathnames and filenames: the inseparable duo

Always include the filename in your destination path to retain the file's name after the move:

# Don't leave your filename behind! It's like leaving a child at the mall.
shutil.move('source_folder/source_file.txt', 'destination_folder/source_file.txt')
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Advanced Python wizardry for moving files

Now that you have the basics down, it's time for the big leagues. Let's dive into advanced techniques for handling more complex tasks:

Moving file types or selective attention

To pick files of a specific type to move, we combine os.listdir() with fnmatch.filter:

import fnmatch
import os

# It's '.txt' time to shine.
for file in fnmatch.filter(os.listdir('source_folder'), '*.txt'):
    # 'You're going to a new home, txt files!'
    shutil.move(os.path.join('source_folder', file), 'destination_folder/')
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Custom file handling with loops

With iteration, we can apply custom logic (like sorting or filtering) before the move:

# The Sorting Hat decides your house... I meant, folder.
for file in sorted(os.listdir('source_folder')):
    # Custom Gryffin... file handling magic here
    shutil.move(os.path.join('source_folder', file), 'destination_folder/')
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Moving on up: pathlib enters the scene

pathlib simplifies many file operations. Without further ado:

from pathlib import Path
src = Path('source_file.txt')
dst = Path('destination_folder/')
# 'I put a spell on you and now you're moved!'
src.rename(dst / src.name)
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Thanks to pathlib, dealing with filesystem paths is now a breeze and the code is more human-readable.