How to Bulk Rename Files in Google Drive: Complete Guide

Google Drive doesn't have built-in bulk rename. Here are your options.

The Google Drive Limitation

Google Drive lets you rename one file at a time. For bulk renaming, you need workarounds.

Method 1: Google Apps Script

Create a script to rename files:

1. Go to script.google.com
2. Create new project
3. Paste this code:

function renameFilesInFolder() {
  var folderId = 'YOUR_FOLDER_ID';
  var folder = DriveApp.getFolderById(folderId);
  var files = folder.getFiles();
  var counter = 1;
  
  while (files.hasNext()) {
    var file = files.next();
    var newName = 'photo-' + counter.toString().padStart(3, '0');
    var extension = file.getName().split('.').pop();
    file.setName(newName + '.' + extension);
    counter++;
  }
}

1. Replace YOUR_FOLDER_ID
2. Run the script
3. Authorize when prompted

Method 2: Download, Rename, Upload

1. Download files from Drive
2. Rename locally using tools like File Renamer AI
3. Delete originals in Drive
4. Upload renamed files

Pros: Use powerful local tools **Cons**: Bandwidth intensive for large files

Method 3: Third-Party Tools

Drive Rename (Chrome Extension) - Adds bulk rename to Drive - Pattern-based renaming - Limited free features

Awesome Drive - Bulk operations - Advanced features - Subscription required

Method 4: Google Sheets + Apps Script

For complex renaming with a spreadsheet:

1. List files in Google Sheets
2. Add new names in column B
3. Run script that reads the sheet
4. Renames files based on list

function renameFromSheet() {
  var sheet = SpreadsheetApp.getActiveSheet();
  var data = sheet.getDataRange().getValues();
  
  for (var i = 1; i < data.length; i++) {
    var fileId = data[i][0];
    var newName = data[i][1];
    try {
      var file = DriveApp.getFileById(fileId);
      file.setName(newName);
    } catch(e) {
      Logger.log('Error: ' + e);
    }
  }
}

Best Approach by File Count

• 1-10 files: Rename manually
• 10-50 files: Use Chrome extension
• 50-500 files: Apps Script
• 500+ files: Download, rename locally, upload

Pro Tips

1. Get folder ID: Open folder in Drive, copy ID from URL
2. Test first: Try on a small folder
3. Make copies: Keep originals until verified

Try File Renamer AI - For local file renaming before upload.