How to export data from 1C for a move to a new system

Data export is the first technical step of any move off 1C, and it's where future problems — or future calm — are set. Let's walk through the process step by step, regardless of where you're moving to.

What to export: three layers of data

1. Master data

Counterparties, items, chart of accounts, warehouses, units of measure, contracts. This is the foundation — without clean master data the rest is meaningless.

2. Balances as of the switch date

Account balances, warehouse stock by item and location, receivables and payables by counterparty and document.

3. Open documents

Unclosed customer and vendor orders, unpaid invoices. Ten years of historical postings are usually unnecessary — an archived copy of the database is enough.

Export formats

The most practical options are tabular: Excel or CSV via standard 1C processors. For large volumes — XML export or direct database queries. The main rule: the format is chosen to match what the receiving system can import, not the other way around, so find that out first.

Completeness checks: without them everything else is pointless

• Count reconciliation: as many counterparties/items in the export as in 1C.
• Amount reconciliation: the 1C trial balance must match the export's control totals to the cent.
• Sample checks: 10–20 random records verified manually field by field.

A legal nuance

Don't delete the old 1C database: legislation requires keeping primary documents and registers for defined periods. An archived copy without active use is normal practice for the transition period.

Where to go next depends on the platform you choose. If you're considering Business Central, the full process is described in our 1C migration guide, and the budget in the piece on the cost of switching.