How to Move Multiple File Types at Once in Linux Using mv

Moving a single file type is easy, but moving several types simultaneously can be cumbersome. This guide shows two simple methods to move multiple file extensions in Linux using the mv command.

Method 1: Using brace expansion

Assume directory dir1 contains files of various types such as .pdf, .doc, .mp3, .mp4, .txt, etc. List its contents:

$ ls dir1
file.txt image.jpg mydoc.doc personal.pdf song.mp3 video.mp4

To move only .doc, .pdf, and .txt files to another directory dir2, run:

$ mv dir1/*.{doc,pdf,txt} dir2/

Verify the result:

$ ls dir1/
song.mp3 video.mp4
$ ls dir2/
file.txt mydoc.doc personal.pdf

The brace list can include any extensions you need.

Method 2: Changing to the source directory first

Navigate to the source directory:

$ cd ~/dir1

Then move the selected extensions directly:

$ mv *.doc *.txt *.pdf /home/alvin/dir2/

You can also move a single extension, e.g., all .doc files:

$ mv dir1/*.doc dir2/

For more options, consult the manual page:

$ man mv

Summary

Using a one‑line mv command with brace expansion or wildcard patterns lets you relocate multiple file types efficiently, saving time compared to moving each type individually.