How to Run Multiple Batch Files From One Batch File

In this tutorial, we’ll cover how to execute multiple batch files sequentially from a single parent batch file using the CALL command. This method is essential for structuring complex automation workflows in Windows environments.

A batch file (.bat) is a text file containing a series of commands to be executed by the Windows command interpreter (CMD). By using the CALL command, you ensure that control is returned to the main script after each called script finishes execution.
 

🛠 Why Use CALL Instead of Just Running the Files?

In batch scripting, if you run a secondary batch file by simply typing its name, the primary script will terminate immediately after launching the second one. To preserve the flow of execution and allow multiple scripts to run in sequence, use CALL.
 

📌 How to Run Multiple Batch Files

Here’s an example that runs three separate batch scripts (batch1.bat, batch2.bat, and batch3.bat) from one master batch file:

@echo off
call batch1.bat
call batch2.bat
call batch3.bat
pause

🔍 Explanation:

• @echo off: Hides the command output for cleaner execution.
• call batch1.bat: Runs batch1.bat and returns control to the parent script when done.
• pause: Optional, keeps the terminal window open after execution, allowing you to review any output or errors.

 

✅ Best Practices

• Always use CALL when chaining batch files to avoid premature termination.
• Use full paths if the batch files are not located in the same directory.
• Use IF EXIST to check if a batch file is present before calling it, for error-proofing:

if exist batch1.bat call batch1.bat

 

🧠 Bonus Tip: Logging the Output

To keep a log of everything that happens during execution, modify the calls like this:

call batch1.bat >> log.txt 2>&1

This will redirect both standard output and error messages to log.txt.
 

🚀 Summary

Using CALL in your batch scripts allows you to modularize your automation tasks, maintain execution order, and prevent unintentional script termination. This is a best practice when orchestrating multiple scripts in environments where reliability and maintainability matter.