Is your upload spinning forever or failing at 99%? That sticky question matters if you rely on quick content delivery for work or social posts. You’re not alone; many people hit the same problem when a file refuses to leave a device.
Start simple: check your connection, confirm file size, and note whether you are posting or using Messenger. Limits differ: posts accept up to 4 GB and 240 minutes; Messenger caps media near 25 MB. Unsupported formats and corrupted app data also cause uploads to fail.
What to try next: switch networks, clear cache, update the app or browser, or export the footage as MP4 (H.264). If one device keeps failing, test another device or a different browser to isolate the issue. Compress or trim large files and, when all else fails, share via a cloud link or send the file as a document.
Key Takeaways
- Identify whether you are posting or messaging; rules and limits differ.
- Verify connection stability and test upload speed first.
- Use MP4/MOV with H.264 for best compatibility.
- Keep posts under 4 GB/240 minutes; Messenger items should stay below 25 MB.
- Clear cache, update apps, or switch devices to isolate the fault.
- Compress or export at lower bitrate to meet limits without losing quality.
facebook won’t let me send videos: what this issue looks like today
Troubleshooting starts with spotting the exact symptom: a greyed icon, a spinning loader, or a short error note. These signs tell you if the problem is format, size, or a weak connection.
Common symptoms across the app, Messenger, and web
In the app and on the web, the upload video option can appear greyed out or the upload button might do nothing. You may also see “The video has failed to process” after an apparent upload. These issues can be frustrating, especially if you’re trying to share important content. Numerous users have reported encountering similar difficulties, leading to widespread discussions about facebook video upload problems online. To troubleshoot, consider checking your internet connection or ensuring that the video format is compatible with the platform. Additionally, it’s essential to verify that your account is in good standing and not facing any restrictions that could lead to facebook post sharing issues. Sometimes, adjusting the video’s privacy settings or clearing your app cache can also alleviate the problem. If issues persist, reaching out to customer support may provide more tailored assistance.
Messenger shows a hollow circle for an undelivered message or a media item that hangs, which often happens when the file size exceeds limits. On desktop, a post flow may return “There was a problem uploading your file.”
Understanding differences between “send” in Messenger vs. “upload” in posts
Sending a message pushes media directly to a person and enforces strict size caps. Uploading a post publishes to your timeline or Page and allows much larger files, but it runs through Facebook’s transcoding.
- If photos upload but a video fails, suspect file size, format, or bandwidth rather than permissions.
- Spinning loaders, inactive icons, or only photo options usually point to format or processing errors.
- When the connection flickers, uploads freeze mid-progress — verify your network before retrying.
Quick tip: convert to MP4 (H.264) and check file size before retrying to avoid silent failures during processing.
Main reasons your video won’t send or upload
Most upload problems come from connectivity, file specs, or app state. Start with these common causes so you can fix the issue fast. Additionally, check that your internet connection is stable and that the file meets the required specifications, such as size and format. Many users experience facebook profile picture upload issues when attempting to upload images that are too large or in an unsupported format. By ensuring that everything aligns with the app’s requirements, you can significantly reduce the chances of encountering these problems.
Unstable internet connection and data limits
An unstable network causes stalls, retries, and partial uploads. Switch between Wi‑Fi and cellular to rule out local network issues.
Tip: Disable VPNs and heavy downloads while testing to get an accurate result.
File size or length exceeding platform limits
Hitting a size or duration cap stops uploads. Posts accept up to 4 GB and 240 minutes, while Messenger limits most media near 25 MB.
Unsupported formats and codecs
Processing errors happen when codecs are unsupported. Export as MP4 or MOV with the H.264 codec for best compatibility and faster processing.
Phone storage, cache bloat, and app data conflicts
Low storage or a bloated cache can prevent temporary writes. Clear cache on Android or free storage space, then retry the upload.
Expired session, app bugs, or outdated software
If you see a session or authentication error, sign out and back in. Update or reinstall the app or browser to remove persistent bugs.
Privacy, restrictions, or blocked recipients
A restricted or blocked contact will stop delivery. Check for a hollow message indicator in Messenger and confirm recipient settings before retrying.
Server-side outages and processing errors
Platform outages or backend processing faults can halt uploads for many users. If status pages show downtime, wait and try again later.
- Corrupted files fail validation; verify local playback before uploading.
- VPNs and aggressive extensions may break authentication or media endpoints.
| Cause | Typical symptom | Quick fix | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weak network | Stalls, timeouts | Switch Wi‑Fi/cellular, restart router | Test speed before retry |
| Size/length limit | Upload fails at % or shows error | Compress or trim file | Posts: up to 4 GB/240 min, Messenger: ~25 MB |
| Format/codec issue | “Unsupported file type” or processing error | Convert to MP4 (H.264) | Use standard export presets |
| App/session problems | Auth errors or app crashes | Clear cache or reinstall; re-login | Android: clear cache/data; iOS: reinstall |
For a stuck upload that stays at 0%, try the step-by-step guide here: fix meta upload stuck at 0. That walkthrough can save time when standard checks fail.
Quick checks before you troubleshoot in depth
Before deep troubleshooting, run a few quick checks that rule out network and server causes. These steps take little time but avoid wasted effort on device fixes when the platform or your link is the real problem.
Verify server status and wait if needed
Give it a moment: if the platform is down, uploads will fail regardless of local fixes. Check status pages or community reports and avoid repeated retries that waste data and clog cache.
Reset radios and refresh your home network
Toggle airplane mode on your phone for 10–15 seconds to reset radios and improve the connection to the nearest tower.
Power-cycle your router and modem to refresh IP leases and steady upstream performance for large media uploads.
- Run an upload speed test with reliable tools to validate upstream bandwidth.
- Temporarily disable VPN and close background apps that consume data.
- Log out and back in quickly to refresh your session token.
- Try the upload button from another browser or device as a fast A/B test.
- Do a simple step: test a small clip first; if that works, the original file may be too large or mis‑formatted.
| Quick check | What it detects | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Server status | Platform outage affecting many users | Wait; retry after some time |
| Airplane mode toggle | Cell radio or carrier routing issues | Toggle 10–15s to reconnect |
| Router power-cycle | Local network instability or poor upstream | Restart modem/router; test upload speed |
| Small file test | Distinguishes file or format problems from network faults | Try a short clip; convert if it fails |
If these quick checks fail, move to targeted fixes for Messenger or the app/web upload flow. For a full checklist on related loading issues, see this guide: fix loading problems.
Fix Messenger on iPhone and Android when videos won’t send
If Messenger hangs on upload, treat the app like a networked camera that needs a fresh path to the cloud.
Reset the connection first. Switch between Wi‑Fi and cellular to find the more stable network. Turn any VPN off while testing. Toggling airplane mode for 10–15 seconds often clears carrier routing problems and improves signal.
Clear cache on Android, reinstall on iOS
On Android: go to Settings > Apps > Messenger > Storage, tap Clear cache. If problems persist, use Clear data to reset the app (you will sign in again). After resetting the app, check if the facebook messenger sharing issues have been resolved. If they continue, consider uninstalling and reinstalling the app to ensure you have the latest version. Additionally, verifying your internet connection can also help eliminate any potential causes of sharing problems.
On iPhone: uninstall and reinstall the app to remove corrupted binaries and caches that block uploads.
Free storage and relaunch
Low storage prevents temporary writes during an upload. Delete unused downloads or large files, then relaunch the app so it can process and queue the clip.
Sign out to resolve session errors
If you see “Session Expired” or timeouts, sign out and sign back in to refresh your auth token. This step often resolves silent failures that look like a network fault.
When a contact restricts or blocks you
A hollow circle on a message typically means the recipient restricted or blocked you. Confirm via another channel before troubleshooting your device further.
- Respect the Messenger media limit: trim or compress clips under 25 MB, or share a cloud link.
- Use the in‑chat paperclip option to try sending as a document if available on your device.
- Send a short test video; success points to file size, format, or codec as the real issue.
- Keep the app updated; bugs are often fixed in recent releases.
| Problem | Quick action | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Network instability | Switch Wi‑Fi/cellular, disable VPN | Find a stable path and avoid interrupted uploads |
| App cache corruption | Clear cache (Android) or reinstall (iOS) | Removes bad temp files that block processing |
| Low storage | Free space and relaunch app | Allows temporary files and upload buffering |
| Auth/session errors | Sign out and sign back in | Refreshes tokens and removes session blocks |
For broader loading issues and follow-up steps, see this guide: fix loading problems.
Fix Facebook app and web upload issues
Begin by updating the app or browser. A fresh install clears corrupted files that block the upload video flow and stop processing.
Update or reinstall the app
Update the app to the latest release. If problems persist, reinstall Facebook to remove bad caches and broken binaries. If you continue to experience issues after reinstalling, consider checking for any pending updates for your device’s operating system. Additionally, you may want to review online resources for troubleshooting Facebook shipping issues, as they can provide specific guidance tailored to any recent changes. Don’t hesitate to reach out to customer support if the problem remains unresolved.
Use a supported desktop browser
On desktop, pick Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Edge. Update the browser so it supports modern media APIs and avoids processing errors.
Clear cookies and cache
Clear browsing data to remove stale tokens and corrupt session state. This often fixes an inactive upload button or unexpected error messages.
Disable extensions and try another browser
Turn off privacy or ad‑block extensions. If an extension blocks media endpoints, try a different browser profile to rule out conflicts.
Log out and retry
Sign out and sign back in to refresh your account connection. Then recheck file size and limits before you retry the post.
| Action | Why it helps | When to use | Expected result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Update or reinstall app | Removes corrupted app data | Frequent app crashes or stuck upload | Restores upload flow |
| Use updated browser | Ensures media APIs work | Desktop upload errors | Smoother processing |
| Clear cookies/cache | Removes stale sessions | Auth or button errors | Fixes session-related failures |
| Disable extensions | Stops blocked media endpoints | Uploads fail only in one profile | Upload button works |
Tip: If uploads still fail, test on a stable wired network and confirm your video file uses MP4 or MOV with H.264. For a related troubleshooting checklist, see instagram reels not posting fix.
Facebook video specifications you must meet
A single mismatched codec or an oversized file can stop an upload cold.
Before you retry an upload, confirm the basics. Meeting specs reduces processing errors and speeds delivery. Use the right format and keep size under platform limits to avoid silent failures.
File size and length limits
For posts, the maximum file size is 4 GB and the maximum length is 240 minutes. Staying well below these limits improves processing time and reduces retries.
Recommended formats and encoding
Export as MP4 or MOV using the H.264 codec. These formats and settings lower the chance of a processing error and keep quality high while controlling size.
Why Messenger is stricter
Messenger enforces a roughly 25 MB media cap. Trim or compress a clip before sending, or share a link for larger video file transfers.
- Use 1080p at a moderate bitrate for good quality with reasonable size.
- Keep dimensions in multiples of 16 to avoid encoder artifacts.
- Avoid exotic containers or off‑spec codecs; standard export profiles are safest.
- Clean file names and standard containers reduce parser errors for a video facebook post.
| Requirement | Best practice | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum size/length | 4 GB / 240 min (posts) | Prevents upload rejections and long processing |
| Messenger cap | ~25 MB | Force-trims or compress to avoid failed sends |
| Formats | MP4, MOV (H.264) | Minimizes transcoding and preserves quality |
If a compliant file still fails, try re‑exporting with standard presets or use a dedicated repair tool for upload issues.
Step-by-step to get a stubborn video to post
When an upload refuses to finish, a methodical approach saves time and data.
Follow these concise steps to test, reduce file size, and normalize format so the upload video process completes reliably.
Compress or trim to reduce size without killing quality
Start by testing a short clip. If small files upload, the main file size or format is the issue.
Export 1080p as 720p or lower the bitrate to shrink size while keeping viewing quality high. For Messenger, target ≤25 MB.
Convert to MP4/MOV if you see “unsupported file type” errors
If you get a processing error, convert the video file to MP4 or MOV using H.264. That resolves most format and codec failures.
Use export presets like HD 720p, progressive scan, and a consistent frame rate to clean metadata and avoid parser errors.
- Test your connection and retry; if a short clip works but the main file fails, suspect file size or format.
- Trim or compress: drop resolution to 720p or lower bitrate to reduce file size while preserving quality.
- Convert the file to MP4/MOV (H.264) to fix “unsupported file type” processing issues.
- Clear browser cache/cookies or relaunch the app, then retry the upload via the same button or icon.
- Disable VPN and extensions temporarily, then attempt the upload again to remove conflicts.
- Re-export from your editor with standard settings (MP4/H.264, progressive, fixed frame rate).
- Use trusted tools or software to batch-convert multiple files and normalize formats for consistent results.
- On Messenger, ensure the final clip is under 25 MB; otherwise share a cloud link or send as a document.
- If the option to post still fails, log out and back in, then try a different browser or device to isolate environment issues.
- Document what worked—resolution, bitrate, and settings—so future uploads follow a reliable path.
| Action | When to use | Expected result | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compress/Trim | Large file size | Faster upload, lower retries | Export 720p or reduce bitrate |
| Convert to MP4/H.264 | Unsupported type or processing error | Resolves codec issues | Use standard export presets |
| Clear cache & disable VPN | Button/icon inactive or auth errors | Restores upload flow | Try same button after restart |
| Batch tools | Multiple stubborn files | Consistent formats for many uploads | MiniTool and similar converters work well |
Advanced workarounds when standard fixes fail
If normal uploads keep failing, move to workarounds that bypass the platform’s media pipeline. These tactics reduce downtime for time‑sensitive content and let you deliver files while you continue troubleshooting.
Share a cloud link or send as a zipped document
Fast delivery: upload the master to Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox and paste the share link in chat or a post. This avoids processing errors and keeps your content live.
For Messenger or tight size caps, ZIP the media and send it as a document. Ask the recipient to confirm receipt so you know the transfer completed.
Repair a corrupted video file before uploading
If the clip won’t play locally, repair the video file with trusted software. After repair, test playback before you upload videos again.
Use dedicated tools to fix headers, broken frames, and corrupt streams. Once repaired, try the platform upload or a cloud share.
Adjust export settings: resolution, bitrate, and format
Normalize exports: set a stable frame rate, choose MP4 (H.264), and lower bitrate or resolution if size blocks the upload.
For teams, use professional tools to batch transcode many files to MP4/H.264 so all devices follow the same pipeline. When internet or connection problems persist, queue uploads during off‑peak hours to reduce timeouts.
- Change container first; if photos upload but video stalls, convert to MP4 before reducing size.
- Recreate source media if corruption repeats — damaged headers often cause recurring error.
- Switch endpoints (mobile app, desktop web, alternate browser) to isolate profile or codec conflicts.
- For Pages with urgent content, publish a short teaser and link to the full video facebook on a cloud host while you finish fixes.
| Workaround | Use case | Expected result |
|---|---|---|
| Cloud link | Platform processing errors | Immediate access, no transcoding delays |
| ZIP as document | Messenger size limits | Delivered file preserved, recipient can download |
| Repair software | Playback fails locally | Fixed file that uploads cleanly |
| Batch transcode tools | Multiple files or team pipeline | Consistent, upload‑ready formats |
For a focused repair workflow, see the recommended guide on fixing upload problems: repair a corrupted video file.
Get your video shared and move forward
Get your video shared and move forward. Start with the fastest fixes: convert to MP4/MOV (H.264), trim bitrate, and respect the 4 GB / 240‑minute post limit and the 25 MB messenger cap.
Prioritize speed: post a short cut to reach people now, then upload the full video when the internet or processing clears. If one phone or device fails, switch to another device or desktop to keep delivery on schedule.
Keep a compact export preset on your phone. Update the app and browser, clear cache, and confirm local playback before you tap the upload button. Build a repeatable workflow so people can deliver consistent videos on time.
Need help with related account issues? See the tagging and account guide for troubleshooting at why can’t I tag.
