Orchestrating Parallel Claude Code Sessions

Managing Parallel Sessions

Running multiple Claude Code sessions simultaneously requires strict isolation to prevent context loss and file overwriting. To resume interrupted work, use claude --continue to restart the last session or claude --resume [name] to target a specific session. The recap command provides a summary of a session's current state, while export creates a markdown file of the chat history to carry context into a new session. For complex tasks, use the plan mode to break a goal into independent subtasks, then use the handoff skill to generate a compressed document that points to relevant files and required skills, preventing the bloat of copying full chat histories.

Isolating Development Environments

When multiple agents operate on the same repository, they often conflict over Git branches, localhost ports, and global dependencies. To resolve this, use git worktree to create separate folders for each branch, allowing agents to work in parallel without file collisions. For automated orchestration, a fork of OpenAI Symphony can watch GitHub issues labeled with specific tags, automatically launching background sessions and opening pull requests upon task completion.

Sandboxing with Docker

To prevent dependency changes or server conflicts from breaking the host system, run agents inside Docker Sandbox. By using sbx --clone, the agent operates within a disposable microVM that contains its own environment and project clone. This ensures that builds, package installations, and database modifications remain isolated. The primary planning session acts as an orchestrator, spinning up these sandboxes for individual subtasks and pulling in changes only after verification, keeping the main codebase stable.