I answered a [similar question here][1] a while back. My answer is copied below. [1]: http://apple.stackexchange.com/questions/39504/best-way-to-copy-all-files-ignoring-errors/99517#99517 ___________________________________ I use **`cp -Rfv sourcefile destinationfile`** with success on a pretty regular basis. **cp** = copy **R** = maintains file hierarchies **f** = if an existing destination file cannot be opened, remove it and try again **v** = verbose mode, displays files transferred as it progresses **sourcefile** = data you want to copy **destinationfile** = directory/drive you want to copy to