Migrating from QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop to QuickBooks Online Simple Start can feel overwhelming—especially when your business relies on accurate financial records. The good news? With the right preparation and steps, you can complete the process smoothly, safely, and without losing critical data.

Step-by-step guide on migrating QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop to QuickBooks Online Simple Start. Smooth import, zero data loss. Call +1-866-409-5111 for help.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to move your company file, what data transfers, what does not transfer, and how to avoid common migration errors. If you ever need real-time support, call +1-866-409-5111 for expert assistance.

Why Migrate from QuickBooks Enterprise to QuickBooks Online Simple Start?

Businesses often switch to QuickBooks Online for flexibility, automation, mobility, and easier collaboration. QuickBooks Online Simple Start is ideal for small businesses that want essential features without the complexity of Enterprise.

Benefits include:

  • Access your books from anywhere

  • Automatic backups and updates

  • No server or hosting required

  • Seamless integration with 3rd-party apps

  • Faster invoicing and banking automation

If you’re unsure whether Simple Start fits your needs, experts are available at +1-866-409-5111 to guide you.

Before You Begin the Migration

Completing these steps will prevent errors during conversion.

1. Update QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop

Go to Help → Update QuickBooks Desktop → Update Now.

2. Check File Size and Data Health

  • Run Verify Data

  • Run Rebuild Data if needed

  • Condense large files if they exceed limits

3. Ensure Admin Access

Log in as the Admin user in Single-User Mode.

4. Understand What Data Won’t Transfer

Because Simple Start has limited features, the following will NOT migrate:

  • Advanced inventory

  • Payroll history

  • Price levels

  • Custom permissions

  • Sales tax groups

  • Multi-currency setup

If you're confused about what transfers, call +1-866-409-5111 for free guidance.

Step-by-Step Process to Migrate QuickBooks Enterprise to QuickBooks Online Simple Start

Step 1: Prepare Your Enterprise Company File

  • Open QuickBooks Enterprise

  • Log in as Admin

  • Switch to Single-User Mode

  • Run File → Utilities → Verify Data

Make sure the file has no errors.

Step 2: Start the Export Process

Go to:
Company → Export Company File to QuickBooks Online

If you don’t see this option, you’re likely using a feature Enterprise supports but QBO Simple Start doesn’t. Disable advanced inventory or ask for help at +1-866-409-5111.

Step 3: Sign In to QuickBooks Online

Login to your QuickBooks Online Simple Start account when prompted.

Choose whether you want to import:

  • All data, or

  • Only lists (customers, vendors, chart of accounts)

Step 4: Let QuickBooks Convert Your File

QuickBooks will begin the conversion automatically.
Depending on file size, migration may take 30 minutes to 24 hours.

You’ll receive an email once your QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop Migration is complete.

Step 5: Review Your Data in QuickBooks Online Simple Start

After logging into QBO:

Verify the following:

  • Chart of Accounts

  • Customer & Vendor lists

  • Open invoices

  • Bank balances

  • Beginning balances

  • Products/Services

  • Opening inventory quantities

Make sure everything matches your old system before you continue using QBO.

Troubleshooting Migration Issues

You may encounter errors like:

  • "File Too Large to Convert"

  • "Advanced Inventory Feature Detected"

  • "Export Option Not Available"

  • "Data Cannot Be Imported to Simple Start"

These are extremely common when migrating from Enterprise because it includes advanced features not supported in Simple Start.

If you get stuck, contact certified migration experts at +1-866-409-5111.

FAQs

1. Can all my Enterprise data migrate to Simple Start?

No. Enterprise features like advanced inventory, payroll history, and custom roles do not migrate to Simple Start.

2. How long does the migration take?

Anywhere from 30 minutes to 24 hours, depending on file size.

3. Is Simple Start too basic for my business?

If you need inventory, job costing, or advanced reporting, you may need higher versions like Essentials or Plus.

4. Will my reports look the same in QuickBooks Online?

No—QBO reports are structured differently, but most data remains accessible.

5. Who can help me with Enterprise to QBO migration?

You can call the help desk anytime at +1-866-409-5111 for guided migration.