Fix Unable to Load File Google Docs Error

Google Docs is a great web app, and it’s used by many that don’t have an office suite installed on their PC. The main benefit is that it’s completely free, so it’s a go-to word processor for students and home users.

Using it, you can create new documents or edit existing files, share and collaborate in the same document. However, some of our users have reported that they are unable to load a file in Google Docs.

If you’re experiencing problems with such as this one, you’re in luck, because in today’s guide we’re going to show you a couple of solutions that will surely fix this problem for you.

If Google Docs cannot load your file and you see an error message Unable to load file then here are the solutions to fix this issue. This issue can occur with Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, or Forms. Using Google Docs doesn’t cost anything and you just need a reliable Internet, a browser, and a google account to make documents or spreadsheets.

1. Check Internet Connection

As you probably already know, Google Docs exists on the web. It requires a constant internet connection to save work. A good Internet connection is recommended for a seamless Google Docs experience. Use Speedtest or test the router to make sure that the internet is working properly.

If you're already connected to the Internet and still having the same problem, try running a speed test to check if the connection is stable.

You can also restart your router to establish a new, fast connection. If the problem persists with no problem in internet connection, move on to the next fix.

2. Clearing Cache and Cookies

By default, many people prefer to use Google Docs in Google Chrome. One of the main reasons is that Chrome supports using Google Docs offline.

On Chrome, a corrupt cache can ruin your day. Clearing the cache is almost always safe, so there's no reason not to try. If browsing data is overloaded in your Google Chrome, it can slow down the browser, resulting in problems opening files on Google Docs.

1. Open Google Chrome, tap the three-dot menu at the top.

2. Navigate to More Tools > Clear Browsing Data.

3. In the advanced settings of Clear Browsing Data, check the Cached images and files along with Cookies and other site data boxes.

Then, relaunch the Google Chrome browser and check if the issues with Google Docs are resolved.

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3. Disable Chrome Extensions

Extensions play an important role in the Chrome ecosystem. Using extensions, one can add more features to Chrome's basic look and functionality. However, some may not be under active maintenance and may be outdated or develop incompatible with Google Docs.

If you have several Chrome extensions installed, it can be difficult to figure out which one of them is causing the problem.

Therefore, the simplest solution is to disable all extensions and then enable them one by one.

1. Open Google Chrome, tap the three-dot menu at the top.

2. Navigate to More Tools > Extensions.

3. Disable all extensions by clicking the switch icon next to them

4. Reset Chrome settings

Resetting browser settings can be helpful because sometimes tweaking the wrong settings can eventually cause problems with Chrome and its functions, especially if you're enabling beta features.

1. Open Google Chrome.

2. Click the menu icon and choose Settings.

3. Click on Advanced. Now choose Reset and clean up.

4. Click on Restore settings to their original defaults.

5. Click Reset settings to confirm.

That will open a window with a warning stating that all Chrome settings will be reset. Just select Reset settings to continue.

Just remember that this will disable all your extensions, clear temporary data, and delete all cookies. However, it will not affect saved bookmarks, history and passwords.

5. Log Out and Log Back in Your Google Account

The file cannot be loaded by Google Docs, possibly due to an account validation error on your part. Go to the upper right corner of the Chrome browser and select the account. Sign out of the current account and log back in with the same credentials.

6. Try Incognito Mode

While browsing in the Incognito mode, Chrome creates temporary sessions and doesn't retain browsing data. With no saved cache, history, or extensions installed, Chrome performs more smoothly. Thus, opening Google Docs in Incognito mode may resolve the issue. Here is how you can access the Incognito mode:

1. Launch the Chrome browser.

2. Click on the three horizontal dots in the top right corner.

3. Tap on New Incognito Window.

Google Docs not loading files can be a real headache while working. Go through the troubleshooting tips above and fix Google Docs not loading files on the go.