What is the best way to convert from Handiledger

Ensure you use the best processes to migrate your data from Handiledger

First, you need a Xero ledger.

Ensure you import your chart of accounts during the set up.

Now you need to bring in opening balances.

There are many options.

Each has its pros and cons.

Manual method

Our all time favourite, especially if you have small asset registers.

This means just going to the opening balance screen and typing them in.

Accounting / advanced / conversion balances.

Pros

1. Complete transparency
2. No need to manipulate data in CSV
3. Simple
4. Do some, come back and finish it later
5. Use CTRL C / CTRL V to copy and paste
6. Typing the word “accounting” will present all accounts with “Accounting” in it
7. Clean up the data on the way through 
8. Take a coffee break

Cons

1. Boring
2. Time consuming for large trial balances

Our experience shows:

1. We recommend this for smaller to medium sized trial balances.

Import through a manual journal 

Xero has an import template in CSV.

Looks under accounting / advanced / manual journals / import 

You can copy the data into the template.

See image:

You only need to complete the RED sections, which is account name and balances.

Pros

1. Speed - it does not take as long as the manual method

Cons

1. Requires data formatting in excel, which can take time
2. You can NEVER use the conversion balance window

Use the Xero conversion toolbox 

Xero has a toolbox that can do many items, such as:

1. Balances
2. Assets
3. Journals
4. Invoices
5. Bills

You will need to ask your Xero account manager for help here.

Pros

1. High volume imports can be well managed compared to manual process
2. If the account from the old system isn't in Xero, you can create it easy
3. Bring in much more than balances 
4. Has a few AI smarts 

Cons

1. It's another user interface / software
2. You can’t walk away half way through, do it until the end