Insights on secure data management with Xportmydata.
Our BlogSupport
-
Getting Started
-
About the Backup
-
Subscription and Pricing
-
Understanding the Xero Integration
-
Security and Compliance
-
Data Flow from Xero
-
Tutorials
Protecting Your Data with Xportmydata
Navigating the world of data backup might seem daunting, but with Xportmydata, it's a breeze. Our platform is tailored to offer you a seamless experience in safeguarding your precious Xero accounting records, files/uploads, and even Payroll details (currently available for our Australian & New Zealand clients). We back up to your OneDrive, Dropbox, or Google Drive, so you can retrieve your data anytime, even if you hit a snag with Xero.
If you have any questions or need further information, explore the other sections of our Support page. Dive in, and let us assist you in ensuring your business data remains secure and accessible.
Learn more by choosing your question
Can I try Xportmydata before I commit to a subscription?Absolutely! You can try Xportmydata with a free trial backup of your actual Xero data. It is a sample only, limited records per data type, so you will not get a full organisation backup.
The trial does not include the Files or Payroll add-ons. Connect your OneDrive, Dropbox, or Google Drive, run the trial, and see how the backup lands in your own cloud storage.
If you like what you see, you can upgrade to a subscription or Single Download from your account. If you need a hand, our support team is happy to help.
To use Xportmydata, all you need is an up-to-date web browser. We're a web-based SaaS solution, so there's no need to worry about specific system requirements or installations. Just ensure you're using the latest version of browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge for the best experience.
You'll also need a OneDrive, Dropbox, or Google Drive account to receive your backups.
Once you've linked Xero, connected your cloud storage, and started a backup, there's no need to hang around and wait. You can close your browser or work on other tasks, and we'll handle the rest.
At Xportmydata, we offer backup solutions tailored to how many Xero organisations you need to protect. Completed backups are saved automatically to your own cloud storage: OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox.
Subscription plans:
- Solo (1): Designed for a single Xero organisation.
- 2–3 organisations: Ideal for small businesses managing a few organisations.
- 4–10 organisations: Suited to growing businesses or firms with more clients.
- 11+ organisations: For firms that need to protect larger numbers of organisations.
Every subscription generates a full backup of your accounting history with each run. This is a complete export of your accounting data in Excel format, from your first day with Xero, along with Xero-ready CSV import files. Subscriptions use set-and-forget weekly backups.
Optional add-ons:
- Files: Export uploaded and attached files from Xero, such as invoices, PDFs, and images, in their original format.
- Payroll: Available for Australia and New Zealand. Backs up Xero payroll data such as employee details, leave applications, payslips, and more.
Single Download:
Need a one-time backup with no subscription? Single Download gives you a full backup of your Xero data, including the Files and Payroll add-ons where available. It is delivered to your connected cloud storage.
For current prices, see our pricing page. If you have questions about which option fits, our support team is ready to assist.
Starting with Xportmydata is straightforward. In short:
-
Log in with Xero: Sign in using your Xero credentials. We use Xero’s secure sign-on.
-
Connect your organisations: Grant access and choose the Xero organisations you want to protect.
-
Connect cloud storage: Link OneDrive, Dropbox, or Google Drive so completed backups are saved to an account you control.
-
Choose your protection: Start a free trial backup, buy a Single Download, or set up a subscription for weekly backups.
-
Find your files: When a backup finishes, open it from your backup history, then open the folder in your connected cloud storage.
For button-by-button help once you’re signed in, use the Guides section in your Xportmydata account. If you get stuck, our support team is happy to help.
Creating an Xportmydata account is simple and straightforward. All you need is:
- Your Xero login.
- Access to the Xero organisation(s) you want to back up (typically Standard or Advisor level permission in Xero).
- A OneDrive, Dropbox, or Google Drive account to receive your completed backups.
Sign in with Xero to create your account, connect your organisation(s), and connect your cloud storage. You can then start a free trial backup, purchase a Single Download, or subscribe. Subscriptions have a minimum term of 12 months and are billed annually (see our pricing page).
For those wanting a glimpse of the service without commitment, we offer a free trial backup. It uses your actual Xero data and is saved to your connected cloud storage. Limitations to note:
- The trial is a sample only, so it is not a full organisation backup.
- Files and Payroll add-ons are not included in the trial (no attached invoices or Xero Files folder content in the trial run).
- Xero Payroll is currently available for Australian and New Zealand organisations on paid plans.
After the trial, you can upgrade to a subscription or choose the Single Download option from your account.
Xportmydata uses Xero’s secure sign-on. There is no separate Xportmydata password to manage.
Xero requires multi-factor authentication when you sign up and sign in. When you access Xportmydata, you’ll complete Xero’s verification step as usual. If you’re stuck signing in, contact our support team.
After you log in, open Organisations and choose Connect Xero Organisations. You’ll be taken through Xero’s linking flow for any additional organisations you have access to.
The number of organisations you can protect depends on your plan. Once the new organisation is connected, make sure it has a cloud destination (OneDrive, Dropbox, or Google Drive), then assign subscription coverage or run a one-time backup for that organisation.
For more detail once you’re signed in, use the Guides section in your account, or contact support if you need a hand.
The first backup can vary. For many organisations, accounting data finishes within a few hours and is delivered to your connected OneDrive, Dropbox, or Google Drive.
If you include the Files add-on (included with Single Download), the first run can take longer, sometimes several days. That is usually because of the volume of attachments and files in Xero. Xero also limits how many API requests we can make in a day, so a large Files backup may pause and resume automatically when the next quota window opens (shown as rate-limit delayed in your account).
Later backups are usually much quicker. We recognise files that are already up to date, so we do not need to re-copy everything from scratch. On a subscription, your accounting Excel backup still runs on schedule, while any remaining Files work continues until it is complete.
You can close your browser while a backup runs. Check progress in Backup History, then open the finished files in your cloud storage. If something looks stuck for longer than expected, contact support.
About the Backup
Learn more by choosing your question
Where are Xportmydata backups stored?Xportmydata initially hosts its servers in Microsoft's data centers in Southeast Australia, where the primary backup takes place.
For added flexibility, we now offer the option to store your final backed-up data in one of the following Microsoft Azure storage locations:
- UK (for EU clients): Ideal for those in the United Kingdom and the Europe, adhering to GDPR requirements.
- USA: Suited for our North American customers.
- South East Australia: Our default and longstanding storage location.
New clients can select their preferred storage location upon signing up. Existing clients or those who wish to make a change can simply email support@xportmydata.com with their preferred choice. We will facilitate the transition for all current and future backups.
Your data's security remains paramount. We store your data on encrypted hard drives and perform daily backups to ensure its safety.
If you're in a region where data sovereignty is crucial, and you want an additional local backup, you can download the data to your device. Following the download, you have the option to remove it from our servers, ensuring your data's autonomy and control.
With Xportmydata, rest assured your data is both secure and tailored to your location preferences.
- Navigate to the Xportmydata dashboard:
- Click the blue "Your Backups" button: This will lead you to the list of available backups.
- Find the relevant backup: Then, click the "Download" button beside it to begin the downloading process.
Once you've secured your backup, it's vital to ensure its safe storage. While Xportmydata provides a robust storage system, we recommend keeping backups in various secure locations, including cloud platforms.
After verifying that your backup is securely stored in your preferred location, you can opt to delete it from our servers, adding another layer of data protection.
Always prioritize your backups' secure storage. If you face any issues or have queries, our support team is here to help.
We understand that there are various reasons you might want to import your data back into Xero. You could be starting a new company, selling an existing business but wanting to keep its historical data, or transitioning between two different Xero files where you're the subscriber for both.
Import Areas:
- Bills: Accounts payable details (imported as inclusive of GST/VAT)
- Chart of Accounts: Your accounting structure.
- Contacts: Customer and vendor information.
- Inventory Items: Product and stock data.
- Manual Journals: Adjusting entries for special transactions.
- Sales: Income and sales receipts.
We're committed to expanding these areas, and we provide a folder called 'Import' within each backup. It's crucial to verify that the data aligns with Xero's import templates. A little adjustment may be required to make sure everything imports successfully.
If you have any questions or run into any challenges, our support team is always on hand to help.
We've noticed that some of our valued customers are comparing the total from Xero's Bank Accounts tab with the Bank Transactions sheet in our Xportmydata Excel backup. We understand this may create some confusion, so we've prepared this article to clarify the situation.
What is Included in Xero's Bank Accounts Tab?
In Xero, the Bank Accounts tab shows the total that includes:
- Cash transactions (Spend and Receive Money)
- Accounts Payable (Bills)
- Accounts Receivable (Invoices)
- Bank Transfers
What Does the Xportmydata Bank Transactions Sheet Capture?
The Bank Transactions sheet in our Excel backup focuses solely on cash transactions, which are transactions directly coded to specific account codes. In Xero, these are categorized as "Spend Money" and "Receive Money" transactions. "Spend Money" transactions capture outflows that aren't related to bills, expense claims, or refunds—like recording bank fees. Similarly, "Receive Money" transactions track inflows unrelated to sales invoices or refunds, such as interest income.
Why the Difference?
The Bank Accounts tab in Xero displays a comprehensive list of transactions, either manually entered or imported directly through Xero's bank feed. This tab effectively mirrors the lines on your bank statement. It includes not just cash transactions but also bills (Accounts Payable), invoices (Accounts Receivable), and bank transfers.
On the other hand, the Bank Transactions sheet in the Xportmydata backup captures only the cash transactions. These are transactions that are directly coded to specific account codes in Xero, known as "Spend Money" and "Receive Money" transactions.
Moreover, the AccountsPayable and AccountsReceivable sheets in the Xportmydata backup can be a bit more complex. Each invoice or bill is often represented by multiple rows, each corresponding to a different line item. However, only one of these rows will contain the payment amount and date. Simply summing these rows won't give you an accurate total because of these multiple entries.
How to Reconcile the Numbers?
To reconcile the total number from Xero with the data in the Xportmydata backup, you'll need to:
- AccountsPayable & AccountsReceivable: Filter out duplicate entries based on the unique entry ID (InvoiceID) and sum up the relevant payment amounts.
- Bank Transactions: Sum up the relevant cash transactions.
- Bank Transfers: Add in the amounts from inter-account transfers.
We assure you that all data is captured in the Xportmydata backup. If you find any discrepancies, it's likely because the Xero Bank Accounts tab and Xportmydata backup are capturing different sets of transactions. We hope this article clarifies any confusion. Should you have more questions, feel free to reach out to our support team.
At Xportmydata, we predominantly offer weekly backups. If you're after a different frequency, such as daily backups, this is something we might be able to arrange in special situations. Please note that additional charges will apply. We recommend reaching out to our support team to see if your Xero file qualifies for this service.
Additionally, for those needing a one-time backup, we provide the "Single Download" service. For a fixed price, this service offers a comprehensive Excel file of your essential Xero data. For a thorough understanding of what's included and its advantages, we invite you to explore the details of our Single Download plan on our website.
The "files" backup offered by Xportmydata is an essential add-on available to our users. While it's available as an add-on for most subscription plans, it's automatically included in the "Single Download" option. This feature ensures that a separate .Zip file is generated, capturing all data from your Xero Files temporary folder. Many businesses utilise this space to store critical documents like contracts, fixed asset invoices, or other relevant data which might be imperative for financial reviews or accountants.
Should you choose the Files Add-on, it doesn't just stop at the temporary folder. All uploaded receipts, invoices, and other attachments related to specific transactions are integrated into the primary Accounts .Zip file. It's a feature designed for consistency and efficiency. All exported files are retained in their original format as when they were first uploaded to Xero. Furthermore, these files are diligently referenced within the Excel accounts data, making it incredibly straightforward for users to navigate and locate specific entries.
Subscription and Pricing
Learn more by choosing your question
Subscription Terms and Payment
Is there a minimum subscription period for Xportmydata?Yes, Xportmydata's monthly plans come with a 12-month minimum term for each organisation. After completing the initial 12 months, the subscription rolls over to a month-by-month basis.
Important Points to Note:
- Except for Single Download, all subscriptions carry a 12-month minimum commitment, in line with our Terms and Conditions.
- If you choose to cancel before completing the 12-month term, you'll be responsible for the remaining balance of the term.
If you wish to end your subscription after the 12-month period, we ask for one month's notice. For any queries or if you need further clarity on your Xportmydata subscription, please reach out to our dedicated support team.
At Xportmydata, we strive to make our payment process as seamless as possible. We currently accept all major credit and debit cards. Our payments are processed through the secure Stripe payment portal, ensuring your card details are always protected.
Additionally, each of our monthly invoices includes a link that allows you to update your payment method whenever you need to. You can also find all your invoices in the 'My Details' section once you're logged into Xportmydata.
If you're having difficulty updating your card details or encounter any payment-related issues, please get in touch with our support team for assistance.
Your billing security is paramount to us at Xportmydata. We've partnered with Stripe, a global leader in payment processing, to ensure your details are safeguarded. Here's how:
-
Immediate Encryption: When you input your billing details, they're instantly encrypted, ensuring the data remains unreadable during transmission.
-
Safe Storage with Stripe: Stripe stores your billing details in a high-security environment compliant with stringent industry guidelines. They are continuously innovating to stay ahead of potential threats.
-
Tokenisation for Added Security: We never store your complete credit card details on our servers. Stripe provides us with a unique token for your card, allowing us to process charges without having direct access to your card details.
-
Highest PCI Standards: Stripe's certification is at PCI Service Provider Level 1—the peak in the payment industry. It signifies their commitment to upholding the strictest security standards.
-
Regular Check-ups: Stripe continually evaluates its systems for security, ensuring they remain airtight against any potential breaches.
-
Advanced Fraud Prevention: With state-of-the-art machine learning, Stripe can promptly identify and prevent suspicious activities, safeguarding your card from misuse.
Our collaboration with Stripe provides you a secure, smooth, and worry-free billing experience with Xportmydata.
Managing Your Subscription
How do I upgrade or downgrade my Xportmydata subscription?Upgrading your Xportmydata subscription is simple and can be done anytime through the software allowing you to add features like payroll or files or even switch to a higher-tier plan. If you ever need to back up another Xero organisation just once you also have the option to purchase a one-time backup.
However, when it comes to downgrading, it's a bit different. Downgrades are possible only after your initial 12-month subscription period concludes. If you're looking to make this change, please get in touch with our support team for assistance. Remember, while you're free to upgrade your plan or add features anytime, it's crucial to wait out the initial subscription term before considering a downgrade.
We're genuinely sorry to hear you're considering cancelling your subscription. Your feedback is vital to us as we continually strive to improve our services.
Points to consider:
- Terms and Conditions: Most subscriptions have a 12-month minimum commitment per Xero organisation. If you decide to cancel before this period ends, you'll still be liable for the balance of the 12-month subscription.
- Cancellation (Full Term): Should you choose to cancel before the term concludes, we will charge your card for the remaining balance of your subscription, covering the rest of the 12-month term.
- Cancellation (One-Time Backup Fee): For those who have chosen a subscription but really intended it to be a one-time backup, we typically don't offer immediate termination. However, in certain situations, we might make an exception and charge a one-time backup fee of $100 USD per Xero organisation, deducting any previous payments.
- Continuation: You can continue receiving your weekly backups until the term ends.
Please note: If you do decide to cancel early, you'll be charged the difference. To take the next steps or to ask further questions, please reach out to our support team.
Our commitment to providing a quality service comes with a 12-month minimum term for most subscriptions. We've noticed some users attempt to sign up and cancel shortly after to circumvent this commitment. Please be aware that even if you choose to pay monthly and decide to cancel early, you'll be responsible for the balance of the 12-month subscription, meaning no refunds will be issued for early termination. This policy is in place to protect the integrity of our services and ensure fairness to all our loyal customers.
Account Management
Changing Your Email Address? Here's What You Need to KnowIf you're considering updating your email address, it's crucial to understand the impact of this change, particularly regarding your Xero login which our system uses. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:
-
What Changing Your Email Does: Updating your email in our system mainly affects where you receive communications and notifications from Xportmydata. It ensures that you continue to stay informed about important updates and information related to our services.
-
What It Doesn't Do: It's important to recognize that changing your email address with us does not automatically update your Xero login credentials. Since our system uses your Xero login, any changes made in our system will not affect how you access Xero.
-
Changing Your Xero Login Email: To update the email associated with your Xero account, please contact our support team using the original email address registered with Xero. We will guide you through the process to ensure your Xero login reflects the new email. This update is crucial for maintaining seamless integration with our system.
-
Limitations on Modifying Xero Login Details: Due to the security protocols with Xero logins, modifications to the login details are restricted. We can only assist in updating the email associated with your Xero account by contacting support on this address.
Should you require more information or have any questions, please feel free to contact our support team. We're here to help and ensure your interactions with Xportmydata are both smooth and secure.
Enterprise Solutions
How can IT professionals, MSPs, accountants, and bookkeepers partner with Xportmydata?Xportmydata offers a referral program for IT professionals, Managed Service Providers (MSPs), accountants, and bookkeepers who wish to recommend our backup solutions to their clients. By partnering with us, you can provide your clients with reliable backup services for their Xero data, while benefiting from our partnership incentives.
Benefits of Partnering with Xportmydata:
- Referral Incentives: Earn commissions or discounts for each client you refer who subscribes to our services.
- Enhanced Client Trust: Offer your clients a dependable solution for backing up their Xero data, reinforcing your role as a trusted advisor.
- Dedicated Support: Access priority support to assist you and your clients with any inquiries.
To learn more about our referral program and how you can become a partner, please visit our dedicated pages:
If you're interested in partnering with Xportmydata or have any questions, please contact our support team for more details.
With an Enterprise subscription, Xportmydata enables you to schedule backups for as many organisations as you require. We pride ourselves on offering flexible and scalable backup solutions tailored to fit your business's unique needs. For more in-depth information on our Enterprise subscription and its benefits, please contact us.
Should you have any questions or require further insights into Xportmydata's backup solutions, our support team is always ready to assist.
Understanding the Xero integration
Learn more by choosing your question
Why should I use Xportmydata to back up my Xero data if Xero already does it?Xero is a top-tier accounting platform packed with features. While Xero emphasises that users are responsible for retaining records of the data they input — and though they maintain robust online services and backups — there's no direct functionality to extract all organisational data in one go. This becomes particularly evident when trying to download attachments, which must be fetched individually from Xero.
For users who desire to take charge of their own data, especially in scenarios where they might be closing, selling their business, or simply wish to have a comprehensive copy of all their data, a solution like Xportmydata is invaluable.
With Xportmydata, users can effortlessly back up and download all of their Xero data. This includes files and, for those in Australia and New Zealand, payroll data. Importantly, we utilise Xero's single sign-on, benefiting from Xero's two-factor security, ensuring your data's safety.
Having diverse backups is paramount for data security. It's not just about retaining copies of vital documents but also about safeguarding financial data. This is a key aspect of sound security practices, aligning with benchmarks such as the Essential Eight.
With Xportmydata, you can have peace of mind knowing your data is securely backed up and readily accessible when you need it.
If you stop using Xero, your backups will remain available for 12 months provided you maintain an active Xportmydata subscription. While you won't be able to log in using your Xero credentials, we can assist you with accessing your backups. Simply get in touch with us using the original email address you registered with on Xero, and we can update your account details to your new email. This ensures you have seamless access to your backups.
We recommend setting up a new user in Xero that we can transfer the subscription to. Please use the original email to advise us of the change. This process ensures continuity in accessing your data and maintaining the integrity of your backups.
If you have any concerns or queries about your backups, or about how Xportmydata handles your data, do reach out using the original email you registered with. This way, we can verify your identity promptly and assist you more efficiently.
Can I still access Xportmydata when I may not have access to the Xero company file? Certainly! Xportmydata provides a solution for such scenarios. Even if you lose access to your Xero organisation, you can still access your backups on Xportmydata by following these guidelines:
Maintain Access to Your Registered Email: This email, registered with Xero, acts as your primary key to access all backups with Xportmydata. Ensure you maintain access to it.
Download Your Latest Backup: Before losing Xero access, download your latest backup from Xportmydata and save it to a secure location, such as OneDrive, Google Drive, or an external drive. Once downloaded, you have the option to delete the backup from our system for data cleanliness.
Update Your Email in Xero: If there's a chance you might lose access to your current email, remember to add a new email address as a user to your Xero file in advance.
Notify Xportmydata Support: Inform us about any email changes. Email from your original signup/Xero address, detailing the new email, so we can ensure you continue to access Xportmydata seamlessly.
Even if your connection with Xero changes, with these precautions, you won't lose touch with your valuable data on Xportmydata. If there are any clarifications or more detailed guidance needed, feel free to reach out to our support.
After selling your business, you might want to retain all the financial data, files, attachments, and payroll details (available for Australia and New Zealand only) from your Xero account. Xportmydata offers a 'Single Download' backup option that allows you to effortlessly capture all this information.
It ensures you have a secure and comprehensive copy of your Xero financial data, regardless of whether you continue using Xero or not.
Should you need any assistance or have questions regarding the backup process, our support team is always on standby to help.
Security and Compliance
Learn more by choosing your question
Understanding Data Backup Responsibilities
Does Xero already back up my data?Xero's Terms of Use and Data Backup Responsibilities:
Xero's Terms of Use, particularly item 37 concerning data loss, clearly state that users are responsible for backing up their data. This is a critical reminder of the risks inherent in managing financial information through digital platforms. Even though Xero is a robust solution with strong security measures, the information is only as secure as it is backed up. Users need to be aware of the potential for technical failures, security incidents, or accidental data deletions.
Understanding the Risks of Data Loss:
In addition to accidental deletions, there's a risk of malicious actions by staff or others with access to the Xero file. They could easily and permanently remove attachments and historical records going back many years. Such events could disrupt a business's operations and lead to significant data loss.
The Role of Xportmydata in Enhancing Data Security:
Xportmydata addresses these risks by offering a dedicated backup solution for Xero's financial data. Our service ensures businesses can safeguard against the risks outlined in Xero's terms, providing a safety net that maintains the integrity and accessibility of their financial records. With regular, automated backups by Xportmydata, users have a current and restorable copy of their financial information at all times. This reinforces resilience against a range of data loss scenarios, from accidental deletions to malicious actions, ensuring that your financial data is always secure and accessible.
Understanding the Scope of Financial Compliance Engagements:
For business owners relying on accounting professionals to back up their financial data from Xero, understanding the scope and limitations of financial compilation engagements, as outlined by the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants, is essential. These engagements involve compiling your financial information based on the data you provide. However, it's important to note that they do not include conducting audits or reviews (unless specifically completed), meaning the accountants do not assume responsibility for the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of this financial information.
Limitations of Accountants' Backups:
While accountants may take snapshots of ledger transactions, this does not typically include the detailed extraction of invoice information, descriptions, detailed payments, credit details, or copies of all your invoices uploaded to Xero. These elements are crucial for maintaining a complete and accurate financial record. However, it's important to understand that the primary role of accountants in these engagements is focused on preparing financial reports, not on backing up your data in its entirety. As such, they may not extract and selectively save this detailed information that is vital for a comprehensive financial overview.
The Role of Xportmydata in Data Protection:
Given these limitations, having a robust data protection strategy is crucial. Utilizing a solution like Xportmydata ensures the safety and recoverability of your business's financial data. Xportmydata complements your accountant's work by capturing these finer details, maintaining the integrity and availability of your financial records. This comprehensive approach safeguards your financial health and operational continuity, providing an additional layer of data protection and peace of mind.
The Subscriber who signed up for Xero is the official owner of the data, not necessarily the business owner.
In the digital domain, understanding ownership can sometimes have its complexities. In Xero's context, the "Subscriber" refers to the individual or entity that registered with Xero and agreed to their terms of service. Holding the Subscriber status grants primary authority and responsibility over the data within the Xero organisation, irrespective of who is paying for the service. This key role dictates who can access the data and to what extent, making the Subscriber the principal figure in managing and safeguarding the organisation's data on the Xero platform.
It's crucial to review your account settings in Xero to determine the Subscriber status within your organisation, as this status is central to data management, security, and compliance. This becomes particularly significant if employees are using personal email addresses for business operations on Xero. For instance, if an employee with a personal email address is designated as the Subscriber and then leaves the company, regaining control over your Xero organisation and its data can become a cumbersome and potentially risky process. It's advisable to use a business-controlled email address for the Subscriber role to avoid such complications and ensure seamless control and management of your data.
Compliance Obligations
What are the data retention requirements from revenue agencies?Revenue agencies in different parts of the world, such as New Zealand's Inland Revenue Department (IRD), Australia's Australian Taxation Office (ATO), the UK's His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC), or the USA's Internal Revenue Service (IRS), generally require businesses to retain their financial records for a specified period, often seven years.
With Xportmydata, the hassle of local storage solutions or manual backups is eliminated. Our services automatically back up your financial data, aiding you in effortlessly complying with your local tax laws no matter where your business is located. Additionally, storing backups on cloud platforms as guided in our support details ensures your data is retrievable and readable at all times, aligning with the guidelines from revenue agencies.
GDPR, General Data Protection Regulation, is an EU mandate on personal data handling, impacting globally any business engaging with EU clients.
Xportmydata aids in GDPR compliance via enhanced data encryption, strict access controls, and regular audits. Initially, backups are created in Southeast Australia; post-completion, they're transferred to your chosen storage location—UK for EU clients, adhering to GDPR. Coupled with the use of Xero's single sign-on for secure access, we uphold GDPR's data protection principles, ensuring both data safety and regulatory compliance wherever you operate.
If your storage location needs changing, feel free to contact our support team at support@xportmydata.com, and we'll assist you in making the transition smoothly. The storage location is selected upon signup to Xportmydata.
The Essential Eight is a suite of cybersecurity strategies devised by the Australian Cyber Security Centre to bolster cybersecurity. It encompasses application control, patching applications, configuring Microsoft Office macro settings, user application hardening, restricting administrative privileges, patching operating systems, multi-factor authentication, and daily backups.
At Xportmydata, we adhere to these strategies and further bolster security by utilizing Xero's single sign-on (SSO) for client access, ensuring a secure and streamlined login process. Our alignment with the Essential Eight, coupled with the integration of Xero's SSO, underpins a robust security framework that safeguards your data from cyber threats, irrespective of your location.
Security Best Practices
How does Xportmydata ensure data security and compliance?Xportmydata partners with Microsoft Azure for data storage, utilizing their data centres in Southeast Australia, the USA, and the UK. These locations are chosen for their strict adherence to international data protection regulations.
Your data is securely housed on encrypted hard drives with daily backups conducted, adding an extra layer of security. You can choose your data storage location to comply with regional data sovereignty laws, enhancing compliance.
For personalized data control, you can download your data to your device, and if preferred, remove it from our servers. This ensures both data security and compliance, tailored to your location preferences.
The Subscriber should review user access in Xero regularly, as maintaining a secure financial environment is a continual effort, particularly when multiple individuals like accountants or bookkeepers have access.
We advise conducting a comprehensive review of your account's user permissions every six months. This habitual check ensures that only authorized individuals have access, aiding in upholding a robust security posture.
It's also a good practice to consult with your accountant or bookkeeper before making changes to user access. Instead of deleting user logins outright, which may cause issues, ask them to review and manage user access as they are often more familiar with who requires access for various tasks. Note that depending on the tasks at hand, backup personnel, accountants, and bookkeepers may have multiple individuals within their organizations requiring login access.
Additionally, it's prudent to set reminders for reviewing user permissions. Setting a six-month interval for these reminders can assist in managing your Xero security.
Data Flow from Xero
Understand the movement of files between Xportmydata and Xero
Tutorials
Learn more by choosing your question
Video Tutorials - SetupAn Introduction
If you're new to using Xportmydata, this video tutorial will guide you through the process of setting up your backups. In less than a minute, you'll learn how to connect your Xero organisation, select the data to back up, and schedule automatic backups for peace of mind. Watch the video below to get started.
This guide explains how to import your Chart of Accounts into Xero using files generated by Xportmydata. Completing this step is crucial, as all other data imports will refer to these account codes. Please ensure that someone experienced with Xero data imports performs this task. Consulting your bookkeeper or accountant is highly recommended.
Prerequisites
- Xportmydata Backup Files:
- Chart of Accounts CSV file
- TaxRates sheet (from your Excel backup file)
- TrackingCategories sheet (from your Excel backup file)
- Xero Access: Administrative access to the new Xero organization where you will import the data.
Steps to Import the Chart of Accounts
Step 1: Review GST/VAT/Sales Tax Types
- Locate Tax Rates in Backup File:
- Open the TaxRates sheet in your Xportmydata Excel backup file.
- In Xero:
- Navigate to Accounting > Advanced > Tax Rates.
- Action:
- Ensure that all GST/VAT/Sales Tax types in your new Xero file match those in your backup file.
- Include Archived Tax Types: If importing historical data, you may need to recreate any archived tax rates.
- Tip: Consistency in tax rates is essential to prevent errors during data import.
Step 2: Check Tracking Categories
- Locate Tracking Categories in Backup File:
- Open the TrackingCategories sheet in your Xportmydata Excel backup file.
- In Xero:
- Navigate to Accounting > Advanced > Tracking Categories.
- Action:
- Verify that the tracking categories and options match those in your backup file.
- Create Missing Categories: Add any tracking categories or options that are missing.
- Tip: Accurate tracking categories ensure that your financial reports remain consistent after the import.
Step 3: Import the Chart of Accounts
- In Xero:
- Go to Accounting > Advanced > Chart of Accounts.
- Action:
- Click on the Import button.
- Choose your Chart of Accounts CSV file from Xportmydata.
- Click Open.
- Follow On-Screen Instructions:
- Map the fields appropriately (e.g., Account Code, Name, Type, Tax Rate).
- Review any warnings or errors before completing the import.
- Tip: Ensure that account codes and names exactly match those in your backup to prevent discrepancies.
Important Notes
- Order Matters: Complete the Chart of Accounts import before attempting to import contacts, invoices, or any other data.
- Backup Current Data: If your new Xero file already contains data, consider backing it up before importing.
- Professional Assistance: If unsure, seek assistance from a professional to avoid data inconsistencies.
Additional Support
- Xero Import Guides:
- Refer to Xero's official documentation on Importing a Chart of Accounts for more detailed instructions.
- Contact Support:
- If you encounter issues, contact Xportmydata support at support@xportmydata.com or consult with your accountant or bookkeeper.
Next Steps
After successfully importing your Chart of Accounts, you can proceed with importing other data types. Ensure that each import is completed successfully before proceeding to the next, as the correct sequence is important for data integrity.
Disclaimer: Xportmydata is not responsible for any data loss or discrepancies during the import process. Consult a professional if unsure about any steps.
This guide provides detailed instructions on how to import your contacts into Xero using the CSV files generated by Xportmydata. Importing contacts is a crucial step in migrating your data to a new Xero organization, as it ensures all customer and supplier information is accurately transferred. We recommend that someone experienced with Xero data imports performs this task. If you're unsure, please consult your bookkeeper or accountant.
Prerequisites
- Xportmydata Backup Files:
- Contacts CSV file(s) generated by Xportmydata
- Xero Access: Administrative access to the new Xero organization where you will import the data.
Steps to Import Contacts
Step 1: Prepare Your Contacts CSV File(s)
- Review Multiple CSV Files:
- If you have multiple CSV files for contacts, ensure all files are ready and accessible.
- Check for Duplicates:
- Open the CSV files to scan for duplicate contacts. Removing duplicates beforehand can prevent import errors.
- Split Large Files (If Necessary):
- For large contact lists, consider splitting the CSV files into batches of 500 to 1,000 contacts for smoother imports.
- Tip: Keeping your CSV files organized and free of errors will streamline the import process.
Step 2: Access the Contacts Import Feature in Xero
- In Xero:
- Log in to your Xero account.
- Navigate to Contacts > All Contacts.
- Action:
- Click on the Import button located at the top right corner of the page.
Step 3: Import Your Contacts CSV File(s)
- Select the CSV File:
- Click on Browse or Choose File in the import dialog.
- Select your Contacts CSV file from Xportmydata.
- Click Open.
- Map the Fields:
- Xero will attempt to match your CSV columns to its contact fields automatically.
- Ensure that each field (e.g., Contact Name, Email Address, Phone Number) is correctly mapped.
- If necessary, manually adjust the mappings using the drop-down menus.
- Review and Confirm:
- Click Next to proceed to the preview screen.
- Review any warnings or errors highlighted by Xero.
- Correct any issues in your CSV file if needed and re-upload.
- Complete the Import:
- Once satisfied, click on Import to begin the process.
- Tip: Do not navigate away from the page until the import is complete to avoid interruptions.
Step 4: Verify the Imported Contacts
- In Xero:
- After the import, return to Contacts > All Contacts.
- Action:
- Review a sample of contacts to ensure data accuracy.
- Check for any missing information or discrepancies.
- Tip: If you find errors, you can edit contacts individually or correct your CSV file and re-import.
Important Notes
- Handle Duplicates: Xero will notify you of any duplicate contacts during the import. Decide whether to merge or keep them based on your business needs.
- Data Consistency: Ensure all contact details are up-to-date to maintain consistency across your records.
- Backup Existing Data: If your Xero organization already contains contacts, consider exporting them as a backup before importing new data.
- Professional Assistance: If you're unsure about any steps, seek help from a professional to avoid data inconsistencies.
Additional Support
- Xero Import Guides:
- Refer to Xero's official documentation on Importing Contacts for detailed instructions.
- For troubleshooting, see Troubleshoot Contact Import Errors.
- Contact Support:
- If you encounter issues, contact Xportmydata support at support@xportmydata.com or consult with your accountant or bookkeeper.
Next Steps
After successfully importing your contacts, you can proceed to import other data types such as invoices, bills, or bank transactions. Always ensure that each import completes successfully before moving on to the next to maintain data integrity.
Disclaimer: Xportmydata is not responsible for any data loss or discrepancies during the import process. Please consult a professional if you're unsure about any steps.
This guide provides detailed instructions on how to import your Inventory Items (Products) into Xero using the CSV files generated by Xportmydata. Importing your products is essential for accurate invoicing and inventory management in your new Xero organization. We recommend that someone experienced with Xero data imports performs this task. If you're unsure, please consult your bookkeeper or accountant.
Prerequisites
- Xportmydata Backup Files:
- Inventory Items CSV file(s) generated by Xportmydata
- Xero Access: Administrative access to the new Xero organization where you will import the data.
Steps to Import Inventory Items
Step 1: Prepare Your Inventory Items CSV File(s)
- Review the CSV File(s):
- Open the Inventory Items CSV file(s) to ensure all data is correctly formatted and there are no errors.
- Check that all necessary fields are included, such as Item Code, Item Name, Description, Sales Price, Purchase Price, Sales Account, Purchase Account, and Tax Rates.
- Ensure Account Codes Match:
- Verify that the account codes used in the CSV file match those in your Chart of Accounts in Xero.
- Tip: Keeping your CSV files accurate and error-free will facilitate a smooth import process.
Step 2: Access the Products and Services Import Feature in Xero
- In Xero:
- Log in to your Xero account.
- Navigate to Business > Products and Services.
- Action:
- Click on the Import button located at the top right corner of the page.
Step 3: Import Your Inventory Items CSV File(s)
- Select the CSV File:
- In the import dialog, click on Browse or Choose File and select your Inventory Items CSV file from Xportmydata.
- Click Open to upload the file.
- Map the Fields:
- Xero will attempt to match the columns in your CSV file to its inventory item fields automatically.
- Ensure that each field is correctly mapped. Key fields include Item Code, Item Name, Description, Sales Details, Purchase Details, etc.
- Manually adjust any mappings if necessary using the drop-down menus.
- Set Inventory Tracking (If Applicable):
- If you wish to track inventory levels for your items, ensure that the Inventory Asset Account, COGS Account, and Quantity on Hand fields are correctly populated.
- Note that once inventory tracking is enabled for an item in Xero, it cannot be disabled later.
- Review and Confirm:
- Click Next to proceed to the preview screen.
- Review any warnings or errors highlighted by Xero.
- Correct any issues in your CSV file if needed and re-upload.
- Complete the Import:
- Once satisfied, click on Complete Import to begin the process.
- Tip: Do not navigate away from the page until the import is complete to avoid interruptions.
Step 4: Verify the Imported Inventory Items
- In Xero:
- After the import, return to Business > Products and Services.
- Action:
- Review a sample of items to ensure data accuracy.
- Check for any missing information or discrepancies in item codes, descriptions, prices, and account allocations.
- Tip: If you find errors, you can edit items individually or correct your CSV file and re-import.
Important Notes
- Inventory Tracking Limitations:
- Once you enable inventory tracking for an item, it cannot be turned off. Ensure you want to track inventory for that item before importing.
- Data Consistency:
- Ensure that all item codes and account codes match those in your Xero Chart of Accounts to prevent errors.
- Backup Existing Data:
- If your Xero organization already contains inventory items, consider exporting them as a backup before importing new data.
- Professional Assistance:
- If you're unsure about any steps, seek help from a professional to avoid data inconsistencies.
Additional Support
- Xero Import Guides:
- Refer to Xero's official documentation on Importing Items for detailed instructions.
- For troubleshooting, see Troubleshoot Inventory Item Import Errors.
- Contact Support:
- If you encounter issues, contact Xportmydata support at support@xportmydata.com or consult with your accountant or bookkeeper.
Next Steps
After successfully importing your inventory items, you can proceed to import other data types such as invoices, bills, or bank transactions. Always ensure that each import completes successfully before moving on to the next to maintain data integrity.
Disclaimer: Xportmydata is not responsible for any data loss or discrepancies during the import process. Please consult a professional if you're unsure about any steps.
This guide provides detailed instructions on how to import your Bank Transactions into Xero using the CSV files generated by Xportmydata. Importing bank transactions is crucial for maintaining accurate financial records in your new Xero organization. We recommend that someone experienced with Xero data imports performs this task. If you're unsure, please consult your bookkeeper or accountant.
Prerequisites
- Xportmydata Backup Files:
- Bank Transactions CSV file(s) generated by Xportmydata
- Xero Access: Administrative access to the new Xero organization where you will import the data.
- Bank Accounts Set Up in Xero: Ensure that the bank accounts you're importing transactions into are already created in Xero and have matching account names and numbers.
Steps to Import Bank Transactions
Step 1: Prepare Your Bank Transactions CSV File(s)
- Review the CSV File(s):
- Open the Bank Transactions CSV file(s) to ensure all data is correctly formatted and there are no errors.
- Verify that all necessary fields are included, such as Date, Amount, Description, Payee, and Reference.
- Ensure Account Codes Match:
- Confirm that any account codes used in the transactions match those in your Xero Chart of Accounts.
- Tip: Correctly formatted CSV files will facilitate a smooth import process and reduce errors.
Step 2: Access the Bank Account in Xero
- In Xero:
- Log in to your Xero account.
- Navigate to Accounting > Bank accounts.
- Select the Bank Account:
- Click on the name of the bank account into which you want to import transactions.
- If the bank account is not yet set up, add it by clicking on Add Bank Account and follow the prompts.
Step 3: Import Your Bank Transactions CSV File(s)
- Initiate the Import:
- Within the bank account, click on Manage Account > Import a Statement.
- Select the CSV File:
- Click on Browse or Choose File and select your Bank Transactions CSV file from Xportmydata.
- Click Open to upload the file.
- Confirm the File Format:
- Ensure that CSV is selected as the file type.
- Click on Import:
- Click Import to proceed.
Step 4: Map the Fields
- Field Mapping:
- Xero will prompt you to map the columns in your CSV file to the corresponding fields.
- Ensure that each field is correctly mapped, such as Date, Amount, Payee, Description, and Reference.
- Date Format:
- Select the correct date format that matches your CSV file (e.g., DD/MM/YYYY or MM/DD/YYYY).
- Review and Confirm:
- Click Next to review the transactions.
- Check for any errors or warnings highlighted by Xero.
- Correct any issues in your CSV file if needed and re-upload.
Step 5: Complete the Import and Reconcile Transactions
- Finish Importing:
- Once satisfied, click on Complete Import to finalize the process.
- Reconcile Transactions:
- After importing, you'll be taken to the bank reconciliation screen.
- Because the transactions are pre-coded with account information, they should automatically match existing transactions if applicable.
- Review each transaction to ensure it is correctly coded and reconciled.
- Tip: Reconciliation ensures that your bank account balances match your actual bank statements.
Step 6: Verify the Imported Transactions
- In Xero:
- Navigate to Accounting > Bank accounts and select the bank account.
- Click on Account Transactions to view all imported transactions.
- Action:
- Review a sample of transactions to ensure data accuracy.
- Check for any discrepancies in amounts, dates, or account allocations.
- Tip: If you find errors, you can edit transactions individually or correct your CSV file and re-import (after removing the incorrect transactions).
Important Notes
- Duplicate Transactions:
- Be cautious to avoid importing duplicate transactions, as this can lead to discrepancies in your financial records.
- Bank Feed Considerations:
- If you plan to set up bank feeds, import historical transactions first to prevent overlaps.
- After setting up bank feeds, ensure that new transactions are not duplicates of imported ones.
- Data Consistency:
- Ensure that all transaction details are accurate to maintain consistency across your financial records.
- Professional Assistance:
- If you're unsure about any steps, seek help from a professional to avoid data inconsistencies.
Additional Support
- Xero Import Guides:
- Refer to Xero's official documentation on Importing a Bank Statement for detailed instructions.
- For troubleshooting, see Format Your CSV File for Importing Bank Transactions.
- Contact Support:
- If you encounter issues, contact Xportmydata support at support@xportmydata.com or consult with your accountant or bookkeeper.
Next Steps
After successfully importing and reconciling your bank transactions, you can proceed to import other data types such as invoices, bills, or manual journals. Always ensure that each import completes successfully before moving on to the next to maintain data integrity.
Disclaimer: Xportmydata is not responsible for any data loss or discrepancies during the import process. Please consult a professional if you're unsure about any steps.
This guide provides detailed instructions on how to import your Invoices and Bills, along with their Payments, into Xero using the CSV files generated by Xportmydata. Utilizing the Xero Conversion Toolbox can significantly streamline this process. Importing your sales invoices, bills, and payments is essential for maintaining accurate financial records in your new Xero organization. We recommend that someone experienced with Xero data imports performs this task. If you're unsure, please consult your bookkeeper or accountant.
Prerequisites
- Xportmydata Backup Files:
- Invoices CSV file(s)
- Bills CSV file(s)
- Payments CSV file(s) (if applicable)
- Xero Access: Administrative access to the new Xero organization where you will import the data.
- Xero Conversion Toolbox: Access to the Xero Conversion Toolbox.
Steps to Import Invoices & Bills with Payments
Step 1: Prepare Your CSV Files
- Review the CSV Files:
- Open the Invoices and Bills CSV files to ensure all data is correctly formatted and there are no errors.
- Ensure that all necessary fields are included, such as Invoice Number, Date, Due Date, Contact Name, Description, Quantity, Unit Price, Account Code, Tax Type, and Amount.
- Prepare Payment Data:
- If your invoices or bills have payments, ensure the payment details are included in the CSV files.
- Fields for payments should include Paid Amount, Paid Date, Payment Account Code, and Payment Reference.
- For multiple payments against a single invoice or bill, consider combining them into a single payment if appropriate.
- It is recommended to use a separate bank account code for the import of payments to keep them organized.
- Ensure Account Codes Match:
- Verify that the account codes used in the CSV files match those in your Xero Chart of Accounts.
- Tip: Keeping your CSV files accurate and error-free will facilitate a smooth import process.
Step 2: Access the Xero Conversion Toolbox
- Open the Conversion Toolbox:
- Navigate to the Xero Conversion Toolbox.
- Connect to Xero:
- Click on Ready to connect to Xero.
- Log in to your Xero account if prompted.
- Click Allow access to authorize the Conversion Toolbox to connect to your Xero organization.
- Select the Xero organization where you wish to import the data.
Step 3: Import Invoices or Bills with Payments
- Start the Import Process:
- From the Conversion Toolbox dashboard, click on Import Invoices, Bills, and Payments.
- Select the CSV File to Upload:
- Click on Select CSV File to Upload.
- Choose the CSV file for invoices or bills from your Xportmydata backup.
- Click Start Conversion.
- Choose the Type of Import:
- Select whether you are importing Invoices or Bills, then click Next Step.
- Map the Fields:
- In the Field column, map each column in your CSV file to the corresponding Xero field.
- Ensure that all mandatory fields are mapped correctly.
- Click Next Step when finished.
- Map Tax Types:
- In the Xero Tax Type column, select the tax types that match the ones used in your CSV file.
- Ensure consistency to prevent import errors.
- Click Next Step to proceed.
- Preview the Transactions:
- Review the preview of the invoices or bills to be imported.
- Check for any errors or inconsistencies.
- Click Next Step when you're satisfied.
- Complete the Import:
- Review the summary of your import.
- If everything is correct, click Complete Import to finalize the process.
- If you need to make changes, you can edit your CSV file and re-upload it.
- Tip: Repeat the process separately for Invoices and Bills if you have both types to import.
Step 4: Import Payments Separately (If Necessary)
- Prepare Payment CSV File:
- If payments were not included in your invoices or bills CSV files, you can import them separately.
- Create a CSV file with the following fields: Invoice Number, Paid Amount, Paid Date, Payment Account Code, and Payment Reference.
- Ensure that the invoices or bills you're applying payments to are already approved in Xero.
- It's recommended to use a separate bank account code for importing payments to keep them organized.
- Import Payments Using the Conversion Toolbox:
- In the Conversion Toolbox, select Import Payments.
- Upload your payments CSV file.
- Map the fields appropriately.
- Review and complete the import following similar steps as above.
Step 5: Verify the Imported Invoices, Bills, and Payments
- In Xero:
- Navigate to Business > Invoices and Business > Bills to Pay to review the imported data.
- Check the status of invoices and bills to ensure they are correctly marked as paid or unpaid.
- Action:
- Review a sample of invoices and bills to ensure data accuracy.
- Verify that payments have been correctly applied.
- Check for any discrepancies in amounts, dates, or account allocations.
- Tip: If you find errors, you can edit invoices, bills, or payments individually or correct your CSV files and re-import.
Important Notes
- Data Consistency:
- Ensure that all contact names, account codes, and tax rates used in your CSV files match those in your Xero organization to prevent import errors.
- Invoice and Bill Numbers:
- Xero uses invoice and bill numbers to identify transactions. Ensure that these numbers are unique and correctly formatted.
- Payment Accounts:
- Using a separate bank account code for imported payments can help you manage and reconcile these transactions more effectively.
- Professional Assistance:
- If you're unsure about any steps, seek help from a professional to avoid data inconsistencies.
Additional Support
- Xero Import Guides:
- Refer to Xero's official documentation on Importing Invoices and Importing Bills for detailed instructions.
- For using the Conversion Toolbox, see Use the Xero Conversion Toolbox.
- For troubleshooting, see Troubleshoot Invoice Import Errors.
- Contact Support:
- If you encounter issues, contact Xportmydata support at support@xportmydata.com or consult with your accountant or bookkeeper.
- For further assistance, consider reaching out to Xero's Support Team.
Next Steps
After successfully importing your invoices, bills, and payments, you can proceed to import other data types such as bank transactions or manual journals. Always ensure that each import completes successfully before moving on to the next to maintain data integrity.
Disclaimer: While Xportmydata provides CSV import files to assist you in restoring your data into a new Xero file, we do not offer a direct restore process. We aim to streamline the data migration process and ensure a seamless transition. Xportmydata is not responsible for any data loss or discrepancies during the import process. Please consult a professional if you're unsure about any steps.

