Why cross-post from TikTok to Instagram?
TikTok and Instagram Reels share the same vertical video format, making them the most natural cross-posting pair. Millions of creators already repurpose between these platforms, but doing it wrong (watermarks, wrong hashtags) kills engagement. This guide shows you how to do it right.
TikTok Specs
- Caption limit
- 2,200 chars
- Max hashtags
- 10
- Aspect ratios
- 9:16, 1:1
- Media formats
- MP4, MOV
- Max video length
- 3 min
- Max file size
- 100 MB
- Best times
- 6-10 AM, 7-9 PM
- Links in posts
- No
TikTok Specs
- Caption limit
- 2,200 chars
- Max hashtags
- 10
- Aspect ratios
- 9:16, 1:1
- Media formats
- MP4, MOV
- Max video length
- 3 min
- Max file size
- 100 MB
- Best times
- 6-10 AM, 7-9 PM
- Links in posts
- No
Instagram Specs
- Caption limit
- 2,200 chars
- Max hashtags
- 8
- Aspect ratios
- 1:1, 4:5, 9:16
- Media formats
- JPG, PNG, MP4, MOV
- Max video length
- 3 min
- Max file size
- 100 MB
- Best times
- 11 AM - 1 PM, 5-7 PM
- Links in posts
- Yes
How to cross-post from TikTok to Instagram
- 1
Download your TikTok without the watermark
Use Socialync or a watermark-free download tool. Instagram deprioritizes videos with visible TikTok watermarks in the algorithm.
- 2
Adjust your caption for Instagram
TikTok captions are short and hook-driven. Instagram captions can be longer (up to 2,200 chars) and benefit from storytelling. Expand your caption with context.
- 3
Swap your hashtag strategy
TikTok uses up to 10 trending hashtags inline. Instagram performs best with 5-8 niche hashtags placed separately after your caption.
- 4
Upload as a Reel, not a Story
Reels get far more reach than Stories. Select Reel format and add a cover image since Instagram shows thumbnails differently than TikTok.
- 5
Schedule for Instagram peak times
TikTok peaks at 6-10 AM and 7-9 PM. Instagram peaks at 11 AM-1 PM and 5-7 PM. Schedule separately for maximum reach on each.
Formatting tips for TikTok to Instagram
Both support 9:16 vertical video
No aspect ratio changes needed. Both platforms prefer 1080x1920 resolution for vertical content.
Remove TikTok watermarks
Instagram algorithm deprioritizes content with competitor watermarks. Always upload clean versions.
Instagram favors longer captions
TikTok hooks work in 1-2 lines. Instagram engagement improves with 3-5 sentence captions that tell a story.
Add a cover image on Instagram
TikTok auto-selects thumbnails. Instagram lets you choose a cover frame, which matters for your profile grid aesthetic.
Common mistakes to avoid
Posting with the TikTok watermark
Always download watermark-free versions. Instagram actively reduces reach on watermarked content.
Using TikTok trending sounds on Instagram
TikTok trending audio rarely exists on Instagram. Replace with Instagram-native trending audio or use original sound.
Copy-pasting the same hashtags
TikTok hashtags like #fyp and #foryou are useless on Instagram. Research Instagram-specific hashtags for your niche.
Pro Tip
Use Socialync to schedule your TikTok post and Instagram Reel simultaneously. Upload once, customize captions and hashtags per platform, and publish to both with one click.
Frequently asked questions
Can I post the same video on TikTok and Instagram?
Yes, but remove the TikTok watermark first. Both platforms support the same 9:16 vertical format and similar video lengths (up to 3 minutes). Customize your caption and hashtags for each platform.
Does Instagram penalize TikTok reposts?
Instagram has confirmed they deprioritize videos with visible watermarks from other apps. As long as you upload a clean, watermark-free version, your content will perform normally.
What is the best time to post on Instagram vs TikTok?
TikTok engagement peaks at 6-10 AM and 7-9 PM. Instagram Reels perform best at 11 AM-1 PM and 5-7 PM. Schedule different times for each platform.
Should I use the same hashtags on both platforms?
No. TikTok uses trending hashtags like #fyp that are meaningless on Instagram. Use platform-specific hashtag research for each. TikTok allows 10 hashtags, Instagram works best with 5-8.