How to Move Partition in Disk Management? Using a Free Tool

Many Windows users want to move partition disk management layouts to better utilize disk space. Unfortunately, Windows Disk Management has limitations. In this guide, you will learn why Disk Management cannot move partitions and how to move drive when Disk Management cannot move a volume scenarios safely using the free tool IM-Magic Partition Resizer. ✔

Video: How to move a partition using IM-Magic Partition Resizer

Also read: How to move a partition

What Does Moving a Partition Mean?

Moving a partition refers to changing its physical position on a disk without deleting data. This is often required when:

• Unallocated space is not adjacent to the target drive
• You want to extend the system (C:) drive
• You need better disk space organization ⚙

Why You Cannot Move Drive in Disk Management

Windows Disk Management is designed for basic disk tasks only. It does not include a feature to move partitions.

Disk Management Limitations ❌

• Cannot move partitions left or right
• Cannot extend a drive unless unallocated space is adjacent (The drive must be NTFS, and the unallocated space must be adjacent at its right side contiguous.)
• Cannot merge non-adjacent partitions

Best Alternative: IM-Magic Partition Resizer (Free)

IM-Magic Partition Resizer is a free partition management tool designed to overcome Disk Management limitations. It allows users to move, resize, and extend partitions without data loss. ✔

Key Benefits of IM-Magic Partition Resizer

• Free for basic partition operations
• Move partitions safely without deleting data
• User-friendly interface
• Supports system and data drives

Step-by-Step: Move Partition Using IM-Magic Partition Resizer

Step 1: Back Up Important Data 🔒

Although IM-Magic Partition Resizer is safe, backing up important files is always recommended before disk changes. IM-Magic Partition Resizer provides free partition copy and disk clone features. You can prepare another disk as the backup destination. Details: How to backup a partition

Step 2: Download and Install IM-Magic Partition Resizer

Download the free edition of IM-Magic Partition Resizer from the official website resize-c.com and install it on your Windows PC.

Partition Resizer is 100% free for Windows 11-XP, free demo for Windows Server.

Step 3: Launch the Program and Select the Target Partition

• Open IM-Magic Partition Resizer
• Locate the partition you want to move
• Right-click the partition and choose Move/Resize

Step 4: Move the Partition

Hover your mouse to the partition, when the cursor shows cross arrows, drag the partition left or right using the slider to reposition it next to unallocated space. Click OK. This step enables you to extend another drive later. ⇆

Step 5: Apply Changes

• Click Apply to confirm changes
• Restart the system if prompted (when EFI partition is involved)
• Wait for the process to complete ✔

Step 6: Extend the Target Drive (Optional)

Once the partition is moved and unallocated space is adjacent, you can extend your target drive (such as C:) easily.

Best Practices When Moving Disk Partitions

• Back up data before any operation
• Close running programs during partition changes
• Avoid power interruptions ⚠
• Use trusted tools like IM-Magic Partition Resizer

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Trying to move partitions using Disk Management
• Deleting partitions instead of moving them
• Ignoring warnings or reboot prompts ❌

FAQ: Move Partition Disk Management

Is IM-Magic Partition Resizer really free?

Yes, IM-Magic Partition Resizer offers a free edition that supports moving and resizing partitions.

Can I move the system partition safely?

Yes. IM-Magic Partition Resizer supports system partitions, but a reboot may be required to complete the operation.

Will moving a partition erase my data?

No, data is preserved when using proper partition tools. However, backups are always recommended.

Conclusion

Although Windows users often search for ways to move partition disk management, Disk Management alone cannot complete this task. By using the free and reliable tool IM-Magic Partition Resizer, you can safely move drive in Disk Management scenarios, optimize disk layout, and extend partitions without data loss. ✔