What Data Can You Export from Xero? And What You Can't
March 3, 2026
7 min read
Understanding Xero Data Export Capabilities
For businesses using Xero, understanding what data you can export and what you can't is crucial, especially when transitioning to a new system, switching accountants, or ensuring compliance with data retention policies. Xero offers a range of export options, but knowing the specifics can save you time and frustration.
What Data Can You Export from Xero?
Xero provides users with the ability to export a wide variety of data. This can be particularly useful when you need to share information with stakeholders or when conducting a comprehensive review of your financials. Here's a breakdown of the data you can export:
General Ledger: Export your general ledger details to review all the financial transactions recorded in your accounts.
Invoices and Bills: You can export invoices and bills, which is useful for maintaining records of your transactions with customers and suppliers.
Contacts: Xero allows the export of contact lists, providing details of customers, suppliers, and employees.
Inventory: If you manage stock, you can export your inventory details, including stock levels and pricing.
Bank Transactions: Exporting bank transactions is essential for reconciling accounts and ensuring accuracy in your financial statements.
Fixed Assets: Details of fixed assets, including depreciation schedules, can be exported for reporting and compliance purposes.
These exports are typically available in CSV format, allowing for easy manipulation and import into other financial software or spreadsheets.
What Data Can't You Export from Xero?
While Xero offers extensive export options, there are limitations on what can be directly exported. Understanding these limitations is critical for comprehensive data management:
Audit Trails: Xero does not provide a direct export option for audit trails. These records are crucial for tracking changes and ensuring data integrity.
User Activity Logs: Similar to audit trails, detailed logs of user activity are not available for export, limiting your ability to track user actions over time.
Custom Reports: While standard reports can be exported, custom reports created within Xero often require manual extraction or recreation outside the platform.
For these areas, businesses may need to explore third-party solutions or manual processes to extract and retain this data.
How Boxkite Can Enhance Your Data Export Experience
Boxkite offers a seamless solution for exporting your Xero data. Whether you're switching to a new accounting platform, archiving data for compliance, or need a reliable backup, Boxkite simplifies the process. Here's how:
Comprehensive Data Backup: Boxkite ensures all your Xero data is backed up automatically to Dropbox, safeguarding against data loss.
One-Time Download: Use Boxkite's one-time download service to export all your Xero data as a complete zip file, available for just $29. This service is ideal for businesses closing down, switching accountants, or needing an archive.
User-Friendly Experience: The process is straightforward, with no subscriptions required. Simply download your data when needed.
Practical Steps for Exporting Data from Xero
If you're handling the export process manually, here are some practical steps to follow:
Identify Required Data: Before exporting, identify which data sets are necessary for your purpose. This prevents unnecessary exports and saves time.
Use Xero's Export Functionality: Navigate to the relevant sections within Xero and use the export functionality to download data in CSV format.
Utilise Third-Party Tools: For data types that aren't directly exportable, consider tools like Boxkite to extract and backup your data effectively.
Regular Backups: Schedule regular data exports and backups to ensure you always have up-to-date information.
Conclusion: Secure Your Xero Data with Boxkite
Exporting data from Xero is a critical task for any business, whether for compliance, transition, or peace of mind. By understanding what data can and cannot be exported, you can make informed decisions about your data management strategy.
For a comprehensive, hassle-free data export experience, consider using Boxkite. With our one-time download service, you can easily access all your Xero data in a complete zip file for just $29, ensuring you have everything you need without any ongoing commitment.
Visit Boxkite Download today to secure your Xero data effortlessly.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Please consult a professional for specific guidance related to your business needs.
Need a complete copy of your Xero data? Get everything in one zip file — invoices, contacts, bank transactions, and more.