Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more

To move your survivor and tamed dinosaurs between ARK servers, use a CrossARK transfer: upload the survivor at an Obelisk or another supported terminal, place items in ARK Data, upload creatures from the creature-transfer tab, join the destination server, and download everything there. Players commonly ask, “How do I transfer my character and dinos between ARK servers?”, “Can I move my survivor to another map?”, and “Why is my dinosaur missing after I transfer?” The answer depends on whether you are using Official servers or an administrator-configured unofficial cluster.

Check compatibility and server rules before uploading. Official transfers generally require the same game mode, while unofficial dynamic travel requires matching cluster settings and shared storage. Uploading removes your survivor from the current session until you download it on another server, so prepare your gear and verify the destination first.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

What a CrossARK transfer actually does

CrossARK Transfers is ARK’s mechanism for moving a survivor, items, and tamed creatures from one ARK to another. The transfer uses temporary storage associated with a terminal: your survivor is uploaded separately, transferable items go into ARK Data, and tamed creatures are uploaded through the creature interface. The ARK Official Community Wiki describes the system as allowing players to transfer “their survivor, items and tames from one ARK to another ARK.” See the CrossARK Transfers reference for the game’s terminology and current behavior.

A transfer is not an automatic copy of everything your character is carrying. You must deliberately upload the survivor, move eligible items into ARK Data, and upload each tame through the creature tab. At the destination, you perform the matching download actions.

#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter | 4Pack Type C Female to A Male Cable Converter for Apple Duo 17 16 15 14 Plus,iWatch Watch 12 11 10,iPad 9 8 Air,Airpods 5 4
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.

Check compatibility before uploading anything

Official servers: match the game mode

Official transfers are intended for an Official Server in the same game mode. Treat PvP-to-PvP and PvE-to-PvE as the safe rule. A destination with a different mode may not accept the survivor or may apply different transfer restrictions. Confirm the target server’s map, mode, and current transfer policy before you upload.

Unofficial servers: confirm the cluster with the administrator

On unofficial servers, dynamic CrossARK travel works only when the servers are configured as one cluster. The administrator must run at least two servers with the same clusterid and a shared storage location set through ClusterDirOverride. The configuration requirement is documented in the ARK server configuration reference.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Ask the administrator to confirm the exact cluster ID, shared cluster directory, destination map, and whether transfers are enabled. Two servers can be hosted by the same company and still be separate clusters if those values do not match.

Use this preflight checklist

  • Write down the destination server name and map.
  • Confirm that the destination is in the same Official game mode, or that an unofficial administrator has configured a shared cluster.
  • Check whether the server permits item and creature downloads.
  • Ask about item, creature, weight, cooldown, and character-level restrictions that may differ from the reference defaults.
  • Make sure you can reach a functioning Obelisk or supported terminal at both ends.

Where transfers start and finish

An Obelisk is the standard transfer point. Depending on the server type and configuration, you may also be able to use a Supply Crate, another supported Terminal, or a Tek Transmitter. Official documentation lists Supply Crates, Terminals, Obelisks, and Tek Transmitters as possible transfer points. Availability can vary by map and server settings, so use the terminal that your server actually exposes.

You need a terminal at the source to upload and a terminal at the destination to retrieve ARK Data and creatures. The survivor download itself appears in the destination join or character-creation flow.

Rank #2
Sale
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter | USB C Dongle with 90W Max Power Delivery, 3×5Gbps USB A Data Ports, for MacBook, Dell, and More (Charger Not Included)
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

What you can transfer, and the important limits

Transfer component Where you handle it Reference limit or rule What to verify locally
Survivor Terminal transfer menu Upload first, then choose Download Survivor at the destination Mode compatibility, character restrictions, and whether the server allows downloads
Items ARK Data inventory The Obelisk reference lists 50 item stacks per upload Whether a particular item is transferable and whether server settings change the limit
Tamed creatures Creature-transfer tab The Obelisk reference lists 20 dinosaurs per upload Foreign-dino download policy, cooldowns, map restrictions, and server configuration
Creature re-upload timing Server configuration The configuration reference records a 43,200-second (12-hour) official creature re-upload cooldown Whether the administrator changed the value or the current game version handles it differently

The 50-stack and 20-dinosaur figures come from the Obelisk reference for patch 246.0; the 12-hour figure comes from the server-configuration reference. They are not a promise that every current server uses identical values. Check the server’s rules before moving valuable tames or filling every available slot. See Obelisk and Server Config for the underlying references.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Server owners can also block creatures that originated outside their server cluster. The configuration setting CrossARKAllowForeignDinoDownloads defaults to False in the documented reference. If it is disabled, a tame may be present in storage but unavailable for download on the destination.

How to transfer your survivor, items, and dinos

1. Prepare at the source server

  1. Travel to the destination terminal or map you intend to use.
  2. Confirm the destination server and game mode one more time.
  3. Remove anything you do not want to risk transferring, and check that your survivor is not trapped, encumbered, or in a state that prevents interaction with the terminal.
  4. Check the server’s rules for blocked items, creature cooldowns, and foreign-dino downloads.

Do not upload until you are ready to leave the current session. Your survivor is removed from that session after upload and remains unavailable there until downloaded elsewhere.

2. Open a supported terminal

Approach an Obelisk and open its inventory or interaction screen. If your server supports transfers at a Supply Crate, another Terminal, or a Tek Transmitter, one of those can be used instead. If the transfer controls are missing, the object may not support transfers on that server or the administrator may have disabled them.

3. Upload the survivor

Choose the transfer command shown by your game. On a cluster, the label is typically Travel to another server; in single-player, the corresponding command is shown as Upload survivor. Read the confirmation screen, then confirm only after you have stored the items and checked the destination.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter | 85W Max PD, 2 USB 3.0 & 1 USBC Data Ports, SD/TF Card Reader, for Laptops/Mac and Other Type C Devices (Charger Not Included)
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Uploading the survivor does not automatically upload the contents of your inventory. It only places the character in the transfer system. Your current session ends for that survivor until you download it on the destination server.

4. Put transferable items into ARK Data

  1. At the same terminal, open the ARK Data inventory.
  2. Move the items you want to carry across into that inventory.
  3. Count stacks against the server’s published limit; the Obelisk reference lists 50 stacks as a reference value.
  4. Read any warning that appears for an item. Do not assume that an item in your normal character inventory will follow the survivor automatically.

If an item cannot be placed in ARK Data, it may be blocked by the server, the map, or the item’s transfer rules. Leave it behind rather than risking a last-second disconnect while testing an unfamiliar item.

5. Upload your dinosaurs

  1. Open the terminal’s creature-transfer or creature tab.
  2. Select the tamed creature you want to move.
  3. Use the upload control and accept the warning.
  4. Repeat for each tame, staying within the server’s creature limit; the Obelisk reference lists 20 dinosaurs per upload.

Uploading a creature removes it from the world and places it in transfer storage. Its saddle and inventory may be handled separately according to the server’s rules, so inspect the creature and its inventory before confirming. If the server applies a re-upload cooldown, you may not be able to upload that tame again immediately.

6. Join the destination server or map

Leave the source server through the transfer flow and select the target server. On the destination’s character screen, choose Download Survivor rather than creating a new character. Select the uploaded survivor and complete the join process.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

If the destination is not listed, stop and verify the cluster, game mode, server status, and administrator settings. Repeatedly uploading new survivors will not repair a cluster mismatch.

Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray | Data transfer & Fast charging for MacBook, iPhone 17/16/15, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Apple Watch
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft

7. Download your stored items and creatures

  1. Reach an Obelisk or another terminal that supports transfers on the destination.
  2. Open ARK Data and download each stored item stack.
  3. Open the creature tab and download each available tame.
  4. Place saddles, ammunition, food, and other equipment back where you need them.

Creature downloads can be blocked even when the survivor download succeeds. A destination administrator may prohibit foreign-dino downloads, or a server rule may prevent a particular creature from entering that map.

8. Verify the arrival before you travel again

  • Confirm that the correct survivor name, level, and engrams are present.
  • Check the ARK Data inventory for every expected item stack.
  • Inspect each downloaded tame, its saddle, health, level, and inventory.
  • Do not start another transfer until you know whether anything is still stored at the terminal.

Official and unofficial transfers compared

Issue Official servers Unofficial servers
Compatibility Normally the same official game mode, such as PvP to PvP or PvE to PvE Administrator-defined cluster; servers need matching clusterid and shared ClusterDirOverride storage for dynamic travel
Transfer points Supply Crates, Terminals, Obelisks, or Tek Transmitters where enabled Whatever terminals the administrator has enabled and configured
Limits and cooldowns Reference values include 50 item stacks, 20 dinosaurs, and a 43,200-second creature re-upload cooldown Can be changed by configuration, mods, or server policy
Foreign creatures Subject to Official transfer rules and current game settings CrossARKAllowForeignDinoDownloads can be set by the administrator and defaults to False in the reference
Who controls the rules Official service settings and game-version behavior The server owner or administrator controls cluster and transfer configuration

The practical difference is control. Official players work within the service’s published rules. Unofficial players can build a flexible multi-map cluster, but a single mismatched setting can make the destination invisible or prevent a tame from downloading.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Why is my dinosaur missing after I transfer?

The creature is still in transfer storage

Return to a destination terminal and inspect the creature tab. A successful upload does not spawn the tame automatically when you arrive; you must select it and download it. Check the source terminal as well if you are unsure whether the upload button was confirmed.

Foreign-dino downloads are disabled

Ask the administrator to check CrossARKAllowForeignDinoDownloads. The documented default is False, so an unofficial server may accept your survivor while rejecting a creature from another server or cluster.

The servers are not actually one cluster

For unofficial dynamic travel, verify that both servers use exactly the same clusterid and the same shared ClusterDirOverride location. Different spelling, capitalization, paths, or storage permissions can create separate transfer stores. The administrator should compare the live configuration files and server logs rather than relying on server names.

Best Value
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display | 85W Max PD, 1 Powered USB-C 5Gbps & 2 Powered USB-A 3.0 5Gbps Data Ports, for MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Dell and More (Black)
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

A cooldown or limit blocked the upload

Check whether the tame was recently uploaded, whether the creature limit was reached, and whether the server uses a different cooldown from the 43,200-second official reference. If you selected more than the permitted number of dinosaurs, upload a smaller group after confirming which creatures are already stored.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The creature is restricted on the destination map

Some servers restrict which creatures can enter a map or cluster. Ask the administrator whether the tame’s species, origin, or current server is allowed. Do not delete the stored entry while troubleshooting; preserve the evidence until the administrator has checked the configuration.

Other transfer problems and recovery steps

The destination server does not appear

  • Recheck the server’s game mode and map.
  • On an unofficial cluster, have the administrator verify matching clusterid and shared ClusterDirOverride.
  • Confirm that both servers are online and running compatible game versions.
  • Ask whether transfers are temporarily disabled for maintenance or an event.

The survivor download option is missing

You may have joined the destination as a new survivor instead of entering the transfer flow. Leave without overwriting the stored character, return to the destination’s join or character screen, and select Download Survivor. If no survivor is listed, the upload may not have completed or the destination may not share the source cluster.

An item did not arrive

Inspect ARK Data at both terminals. Items placed in the normal inventory, a creature inventory, or a structure inventory are not necessarily included in the upload. Check whether the item is prohibited and whether you exceeded the stack limit. If the item is still stored, download it before attempting another transfer.

You uploaded by mistake

Join a compatible destination and download the survivor there. If you cannot access the destination, contact the administrator before creating another character or changing cluster settings. Creating additional survivors can make it harder to identify the original upload.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

A disconnect occurs during the process

Do not immediately repeat the upload. Reconnect to the source or destination and inspect the survivor list, ARK Data, and creature tab. Record what is present, including the terminal and approximate time, then give those details to the administrator if a stored entry is missing.

Safer practices for valuable tames

  • Test the route with a low-value item and an expendable tame before moving a breeding line or high-level mount.
  • Capture screenshots of creature names, levels, mutations, saddles, and inventories.
  • Transfer in smaller groups instead of filling every reference slot on your first attempt.
  • Keep a written list of what is in ARK Data and what remains at the source.
  • Ask the administrator about backups and rollback policy before transferring irreplaceable creatures.
  • Wait for each upload confirmation and verify the destination before beginning the next trip.

Quick transfer checklist

  1. Confirm the destination map, server, game mode, and cluster relationship.
  2. Locate a supported source terminal.
  3. Move eligible items into ARK Data.
  4. Upload selected creatures from the creature tab.
  5. Upload the survivor using Travel to another server or Upload survivor.
  6. Join the destination and choose Download Survivor.
  7. At a destination terminal, download ARK Data items and creatures.
  8. Inspect survivor, items, saddles, and creature inventories before leaving.

Reference documentation

For terminology and rules that can change with game versions or server configuration, consult the CrossARK Transfers, Obelisk, and Server Config references. The official forum’s Scorched Earth technical/detail FAQ is also a map-specific reference; map rules may not apply universally to every ARK server.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.