How to Switch from Spreadsheets to Accounting Software
Move your business from spreadsheets to accounting software. Opening balances, GST setup, and bank feed connection guide for Australia.
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