Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-15

How to Fix: How to get rid of stuck ffmpeg "pts has no value" error

FFmpeg error fix for pts has no value issue during video conversion.

Quick Answer: Use the -c:v copy option instead of -copy codecs to avoid the pts has no value error.

The 'pts has no value' error is a common issue encountered when using the -copy codecs option in FFmpeg. This error occurs because the input file's timestamp information (pts) cannot be copied to the output file. The error affects users who want to convert files from one format to another without re-encoding, but it can be frustrating for those who need to use the converted file in applications that don't support the original format.

The 'pts has no value' error is particularly frustrating because it prevents users from achieving their desired conversion. However, by following the steps outlined below, you should be able to resolve this issue and successfully convert your file.

🔍 Why This Happens

  • The primary reason for the 'pts has no value' error is that FFmpeg cannot determine the timestamp information of the input file. This can happen when the input file's metadata is incomplete or corrupted. Additionally, some codecs may not support timestamp information, leading to this error.
  • Another potential cause is that the input file contains a codec that does not support timestamp information, such as the Sony Vegas AVC codec used in your case.

🚀 How to Resolve This Issue

-copybatches instead of -copycodes

  1. Step 1: Replace '-copy codecs' with '-copybatches' to re-encode only the audio and/or video streams that have changed. This approach can be more efficient than -copy codecs, but it may still result in a longer conversion time.
  2. Step 2: You can use the following command: ffmpeg -i camcord.avc -map_metadata 1 -c:v copy -c:a copy camcord.mp4
  3. Step 3: Note that this method will re-encode the entire file, which may be less efficient than using -copy codecs. However, it should help resolve the 'pts has no value' error.

-genpts and -movflags +faststart

  1. Step 1: Use the '-genpts' option to generate timestamp information for the input file. This can help FFmpeg determine the correct timestamp information for the output file.
  2. Step 2: Additionally, use the '-movflags +faststart' option to enable fast start in the output file. This can help reduce the loading time of the video.

🎯 Final Words

In summary, the 'pts has no value' error is often caused by incomplete or corrupted metadata in the input file. By using the -copybatches method and/or generating timestamp information with the '-genpts' option, you should be able to resolve this issue and successfully convert your file.

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