Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

Time Machine hangs during "Preparing Backup"

I've trashed the .InProgress file, disconnected the external drive, reconnected it, run Disk Utility First Aid on it and come up clean. Disconnected the external again, shut down the laptop (2015 MacBook Pro running Catalina 10.15.6), restarted, reconnected, still getting hung up at Preparing Backup.


Addendum: switching USB ports might have made a difference. Anyway: resolved.

MacBook Pro 15″, macOS 10.13

Posted on Sep 10, 2020 3:42 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Sep 10, 2020 6:37 PM

Please read If Time Machine remains in the “preparing” stage on Mac.


Addendum: switching USB ports might have made a difference.


It might have. Confirm by switching it back, after a backup finishes. I've seen TM remain in the "preparing" stage for as much as an entire day.

1 reply

Time Machine hangs during "Preparing Backup"

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.