Guide to Salesforce Data Import Options
You've decided you're moving to Salesforce, and now it's time to decide how. You may have received recommendations from a trusted colleague, or read a convincing how-to guide. Before you commit to an option, take a moment to review the most common salesforce data import options to ensure you select the best fit for your specific needs and resources you have available.


Option 1: Salesforce Import Wizard

A very simple option, using the Wizard built into your Salesforce environment. To open it go to Your Name | Setup | Data Management. It works with any Salesforce edition and is free of cost.

When to use:
  • You have your current CRM data in CSV format and need to import only basic records like Accounts, Contacts or Leads

  • You do not have more than 50,000 records to import (this is a limit built into the Wizard app)

  • API is not enabled in your Salesforce Edition (Group, Professional) so other options are not available for you.

  • You don't have any migration budget, but you have a few days of free time.


Option 2: Dataloader.io or Import2 CSV Import

You can choose a standalone service that allows you to import data from CSV, with more capabilities than Salesforce's built-in Wizard. Using these professionally built tools allow you to do more sophisticated migration tasks on your own.

When to use:
  • You need to import various CRM objects not supported by Import Wizard.

  • You are familiar with Salesforce Data Model or techy enough to learn it quickly.

  • You are using Professional or Enterprise Edition and have API access enabled.


Option 3: Salesforce API

Sometimes, especially when you need to automate certain steps of data preparation or cleansing, the best option is to use Salesforce API directly. Thorough documentation is very helpful and there are various client libraries like Databasedotcom written in different languages.

When to use:
  • If other tools didn't work out as expected.

  • You have experience working with API

  • You need to automate certain steps of data import.

  • You are using Professional or Enterprise Edition and have API access enabled.

Option 4: 1-Click Salesforce Data Migration by Import2

In many cases, you do not have the time, know-how or resources required to do the data import yourself. This is why third-party services exist! Import2 for Salesforce uses a combination of Salesforce API and trained migration experts to automate and simplify almost every step of CRM data import. The result is both time- and cost-efficient.

When to use Import2:
  • If other tools don't accomplish what you are looking for.

  • You do not have the know-how or time for an API migration

  • You have a tight timeline to complete the migration

  • You have a large database that exceeds the limits of other tools.


Remember when you choose, you are not "stuck" in that decision. If you try to do an import yourself, but realize it's too complex or exhaustive to complete, you can turn to a new option. If you choose a consultant who is not a good fit for you, check out other salesforce data import options! It is crucial to the success of your data migration that you are confident in the results. This means that by the time it is ready to begin, you've tested and approved the method you select.
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