How to Migrate from QuickBooks to Xero
Step-by-step QuickBooks to Xero migration guide for Australian businesses. Data transfer checklist, BAS implications, and payroll switchover tips.
What Transfers & What Doesn’t
Not everything moves across automatically. Use this table to plan your migration scope.
| Data Type | Auto Transfer? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chart of Accounts | Yes | Xero has a direct QBO import tool — maps most account types automatically |
| Contacts | Yes | Customers and suppliers import via CSV or Xero conversion tool |
| Invoices | Partial | Open invoices transfer — paid/closed invoices import as historical archive only |
| Bills | Partial | Outstanding bills only — historical bills as PDF backup |
| Products & Services | Yes | Items list imports via CSV with prices and tax codes |
| Bank Transactions | No | Reconnect bank feeds in Xero — historical transactions don't transfer |
| GST/BAS History | No | Keep QBO access for 5 years for ATO record-keeping requirements |
| Payroll Data | No | Manual YTD re-entry needed — lodge STP finalisation in QBO first |
Step-by-Step Migration Guide
Step 1
Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2
Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3
Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.
Step 4
Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.
Step 5
Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.
Step 6
Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.
Step 7
Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.
Step 8
Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.
Pre-Migration Checklist
- Reconcile all bank accounts up to the conversion date
- Lodge all outstanding BAS and IAS returns
- Finalise and lodge STP report for the current pay period
- Export key reports (P&L, Balance Sheet, Trial Balance) as PDFs
- Back up your data to an external drive and cloud storage
- Notify your BAS agent or bookkeeper about the planned switch date