How to Switch from Spreadsheets to Accounting Software
How to move your Australian business from Excel or Google Sheets to proper accounting software. Opening balances, GST setup, and bank feed connection guide.
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 | No | Map spreadsheet columns to standard account codes — most platforms have AU templates |
| Customer/Supplier List | Yes | Format spreadsheet as CSV with ABN, address, and payment terms columns |
| Outstanding Invoices | Partial | Enter as opening balances — or import via CSV if the platform supports it |
| Bank Transactions | No | Connect bank feed from go-live date — don't try to backfill historical data |
| GST Records | No | Keep spreadsheets for historical BAS periods — start fresh from next BAS quarter |
| Opening Balances | No | Enter trial balance from last BAS period as conversion balances |
| Inventory | Partial | Import product list via CSV — stocktake recommended before go-live |
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