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Troubleshooting: My video didn’t convert properly when uploading

If you have successfully uploaded a video but it fails to convert or play properly, there may be an issue with the source file. This article explains common conversion errors and how to resolve them to ensure your video is accessible.

In this article:

What causes conversion issues?

Several technical factors can prevent a video from converting correctly after a successful upload. These include: 

  • File Corruption: If the source file is damaged or corrupted, it can stop conversion or cause playback to fail mid-video.
  • Encoding Variations: Variable frame rates or non-square pixels can lead to sync discrepancies or unexpected aspect ratios.
  • Multiple Tracks: Files with more than one audio or video track can confuse the encoder, leading to random track selection.
  • Format Compatibility: Vimeo does not support the following file types for upload or conversion into a playable video:
    • PowerPoint or Keynote files (e.g., .key, .pptx, .ppt, .pptm)
    • Documents (e.g., .pdf, .txt, .doc, .docx, .xlsx, .xml)
    • DVD video disc information (e.g., .IFO, .ISO, .BUP)
    • Audio files (e.g., .mp3, .wav)
    • Project files (e.g., .wlmp, .prproj, .imovieproj, .camproj)
    • GoToMeeting files (e.g., .g2m)
    • Webex files (e.g., .arf or .wrf)

How to fix file corruption

Corruption can be introduced during shooting, editing, or exporting. To resolve this:

  1. Test the source file: Play your file in a player like QuickTime or VLC to see if it plays to the end without issue.
  2. Re-upload the video: If the file plays correctly on your computer, try re-uploading the video or replacing your video. Learn how to manage video versions and access history.
  3. Re-export or re-encode: If the error persists, re-export your video from your editing software or use a free tool like HandBrake to re-encode the file.

How to fix variable frame rate and aspect ratio issues

Vimeo converts all videos to a constant frame rate and square pixels. To prevent sync or display issues:

  • Set a constant frame rate: Ensure your editing software is set to export at a constant, rather than variable, frame rate.
  • Use square pixels: In your editor's export settings, uncheck any options for "anamorphic" video to ensure your video displays with the correct aspect ratio (e.g, an HD 16:9 video displaying as SD 4:3).
  • Mix down tracks: Ensure you are uploading a single video and audio track by mixing them down in your editor before the final export.

Suggested next steps

  • Learn about compression guidelines for optimal export settings.
  • Contact Support if you are still experiencing conversion failures. In your message, include the following:
    • A link to the video that you are experiencing issues with.
    • A summary of the unexpected behavior is in the video (preferably with timestamps), and what the expected behavior should be.
  • Check the Vimeo Site Status page for site-wide issues.

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