How to import media without duplicating it in the project panel either via Media Browser or Windows Explorer?

Question

Hi,

I hate the idea of having to consolidate media after duplicates appear just because I’ve imported some media into my project. I prefer to drag and drop from Explorer as I find it easier to find the right media within my own file structure.

I’ve tested with “Allow Duplicate media during project import” checked and un-checked.

I’ve tested with XMP ID checked and un-checked.

I’ve tested with importing files from Media Browser panel

I’ve tested it with Premiere pro 2024, 2025, and 2026

All just continue to duplicate media within my project files and bins.

6 years ago I could swear this never happened, and now it does.

Is there a solution? Is it a bug? Is it lacking a feature (which I believe it already had)

Any help would be massively appreciated.

Thanks,

Rob

Kevin J. Monahan Jr. · Answer

Hey Rob,Thanks for the post. Sounds frustrating. What kind of media is it? Is the footage coming from a card-based camera? I think we need more information so we can test it out. Can you give us a bit more info about your computer system, as well? I hope the community can help.Thanks,Kevin

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