Import/export CSV files

CSV files are simple text files containing tabular data. Each field in the file is separated from the next by a comma. Most spreadsheets support this format, although you can create and edit CSV files with any text editor like Notepad.

Import CSV files

To import a list in the CSV format, you need to install the QuickBooks Import Excel and CSV toolkit. The toolkit contains:

• Import from Excel and CSV Manual – a PDF document with instructions, best practices, and notes.
• CSV Examples Folder – 4 sample CSV files, one for each type of list.
• XLS Example Folder – a sample Excel file containing 4 worksheets, one for each type of list.
• Allowed fields – a reference guide explaining what fields are available for Excel and CSV import.

Steps to install the QuickBooks Import Excel and CSV toolkit

1. Open the file download window for the toolkit, then select Save.
2. Go to your Windows Desktop, then select Save.
3. Double-click QuickBooks_Import_Excel_and_CSV.exe on your Windows desktop to open the WinZip Self-Extractor window.
4. Select Browse, choose the folder where you want to install the toolkit (such as your Desktop), then OK.
5. Select Unzip to extract the contents, and then select Close to close the WinZip Self-Extractor window.
6. Open the QuickBooks Import Excel and CSV folder from the location you selected in step 4.

Export CSV files

You can export a list as a CSV file if you don’t have MS Excel installed on your computer or if you want to view and edit your data using a different format.

Customers and Vendors

1. Open the Customer/Vendor Center.
2. Select the Excel drop-down, then choose:
   • Export Customer/Vendor list if you want to export customer/vendor data such as name, balances and contact information.
   • Export Transactions if you want to export transactions (either by name or transaction type).
3. In the Export window, choose Create a comma separated values (.csv) file.
4. Select Export.
5. Assign a file name, then choose the location where you want to save the file.
6. Locate, open, and edit the file as needed.

Items

1. Go to the Lists menu, then select Item List.
2. Select the Excel drop-down, then choose Export all Items.
3. In the Export window, choose Create a comma separated values (.csv) file.
4. Select Export.
5. Assign a file name, then choose the location where you want to save the file.
6. Locate, open, and edit the file as needed.

Reports

1. Open the report.
2. Select the Excel drop-down at the top of the report.
3. Select Create New Worksheet.
4. On the Send Report to Excel window, select Create a comma separated values (.csv) file.
5. Select Export.
6. Assign a file name, then choose the location where you want to save the file.
7. Locate, open, and edit the file as needed.