How can I transfer files from my phone to my PC via USB?

Have you thought about using cloud services? If you can get somewhere with WiFi, like a coffee shop, upload your files to Google Drive or OneDrive, and then download them to your desktop from there. It's a solid workaround if USB isn't cooperating.

It sounds like you could be using a cheap charging-only cable. Make sure you’re using a proper USB-C to USB-C cable that supports data transfer. If that doesn’t help, consider what version of Android you’re running. Also, if you're open to it, there are USB drives that have USB-C on one end and regular USB on the other, which can plug into your phone and act as external storage.

First, I need to know what type of phone and OS you're using. If it's an Android device, you might need to enable developer options. Go to the "About Phone" section and tap the build number several times to unlock developer mode. After that, head over to developer options and check the USB settings to set it to file transfer mode. Also, keep in mind that some USB-C cables are just for charging and don't support data transfer, so make sure yours has data lanes.