In this article we’ll see about MySQL 1064 Error in WordPress Migration.
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Migrating a WordPress website in 2026 is easier than ever thanks to advanced tools and hosting solutions. However, even today, developers and site owners still encounter one frustrating issue — the MySQL 1064 error.
This error can quickly disrupt your migration process, especially when importing databases into a new server. If you’ve ever seen an error mentioning invalid SQL syntax during migration, you’re not alone.
In this complete guide, we’ll break down what MySQL 1064 error is, why it happens during WordPress migration, and how to fix it step-by-step using modern best practices.
What is MySQL 1064 Error?
The MySQL 1064 error is a syntax-related database error. It occurs when MySQL cannot understand or execute a SQL query due to invalid or unsupported syntax.
The MySQL 1064 error is a syntax error that can occur when migrating a WordPress site. This error can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Mistyped commands: One of the most common causes of this error is when a SQL statement is mistyped. This can happen easily, especially when there are a lot of complex commands involved in a migration.
- Outdated commands: Another common cause of this error is when outdated or obsolete commands are used. MySQL is constantly being updated, and some commands that were once valid may no longer be supported in newer versions.
- Missing data: In some cases, the MySQL 1064 error can be caused by missing data in the database. This can happen if the data was not properly exported from the old server, or if it was corrupted during the migration process.
Example Error:
#1064 - You have an error in your SQL syntax; check the manual that corresponds to your MySQL server version for the right syntax to use near '<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC ...'
This specific error often appears during WordPress migration when importing a .sql file into a database using tools like phpMyAdmin.
Why Does MySQL 1064 Error Occur in WordPress Migration?
Understanding the root cause is essential before fixing it. Here are the most common reasons:
1. Incorrect or Corrupted SQL File
- HTML content (like
<!DOCTYPE html>) accidentally inserted into SQL file - Broken export due to server timeout or interruption
2. Version Mismatch (MySQL / MariaDB)
- SQL exported from newer MySQL version may not work on older servers
- Deprecated syntax or unsupported features
3. Improper Export Settings
- Exporting without proper encoding or format
- Missing table structure or data
4. Special Characters / Encoding Issues
- UTF-8 vs UTF8MB4 mismatch
- Invalid characters breaking queries
5. Plugin or Theme Data Corruption
- Serialized data broken during migration
- Invalid queries generated by plugins
MySQL 1064 error Solution:
If You Have the Following Error:
#1064 – You have an error in your SQL syntax; check the manual that corresponds to your MySQL server version for the right syntax to use near ‘<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC “-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN” “http://www.w’at line
I Have A Solution for MySQL 1064 error that occurred during WordPress migration. Please follow the below steps
Solution 1:
1). Go To PhpMyadmin
2). Find Database To Export
3). In Export Method, select Custom.
4). In Compression Located in Output Section Select gzipped
5). Save SQL file and Export And Enjoy
Best Practices for WordPress Migration in 2026
To avoid MySQL errors completely, follow these modern practices:
- Always use UTF8MB4 encoding
- Prefer WP-CLI or plugins over manual export
- Keep MySQL/MariaDB versions compatible
- Test migration on staging environment first
- Backup database before importing
References
- https://dev.mysql.com/doc/refman/8.0/en/server-error-reference.html
- https://wordpress.org/support/article/moving-wordpress/
- https://developer.wordpress.org/cli/commands/db/
- https://www.phpmyadmin.net/docs/
Conclusion
The MySQL 1064 error during WordPress migration may look intimidating, but it’s usually caused by simple issues like corrupted SQL files, encoding problems, or version mismatches.
WordPress is an open-source website creation tool written in PHP. But in non-geek speak, it’s probably the easiest and most powerful blogging and website content management system (or CMS).
It is the most popular blogging system in use on the Web. WordPress was used by more than 23.2% of the top 10 million websites.
Its founders are Matt Mullen and Mike Little.
WordPress is the best for your personal blog or business site. There are thousands of plugins and themes available to transform your site into almost anything you can imagine.
Over 60 million people have chosen WordPress to power the place on the web.
WordPress first appeared in 2003 as a joint effort between Matt Mullenweg and Mike Little to create a fork of b2.[22] Christine Selleck Tremoulet, a friend of Mullenweg, suggested the name WordPress.
As you embark on your WordPress migration odyssey, don’t be disheartened by the MySQL #1064 error lurking in the shadows.
Armed with unconventional knowledge and unorthodox solutions, you now possess the tools to conquer this cryptic adversary.
Remember, the path to victory lies in attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and a dash of audacity. So, embrace the challenge, venture forth, and emerge triumphant in your quest to migrate your WordPress kingdom.
I hope this article helps you!
