A complete step-by-step guide to switching from QuickBooks to Xero, including what breaks, what improves, and a hands-on migration checklist.
Complete all reconciliations and close the current period in QuickBooks
Export chart of accounts, trial balance, and contact list
Export all open invoices, bills, and inventory items
Set up Xero organization with correct fiscal year and tax settings
Import chart of accounts and opening balances
Import contacts, invoices, and bills
Connect bank feeds and set up bank rules in Xero
Set up payroll in Xero (or connect payroll integration)
Configure recurring invoices and bill templates
Run parallel books for 1 month to verify accuracy
Have your accountant review and approve the migration
International businesses needing multi-currency support, growing teams frustrated by QuickBooks' per-user pricing, and companies wanting a more modern cloud accounting experience.
US businesses deeply integrated with QuickBooks Payroll, companies using QuickBooks Desktop with complex inventory, and accountants whose clients are standardized on QuickBooks.
Compare features, pricing, and ratings side by side before making your switch.
Compare QuickBooks vs Xero