Cloud-based accounting platforms like Xero and QuickBooks Online are popular among small and mid-sized businesses looking for accessible, user-friendly financial tools. But if you’ve outgrown Xero or found it doesn’t meet your evolving needs, a Xero migration to QuickBooks might be your next smart move.
Whether it’s due to feature limitations, compatibility with third-party apps, or scalability concerns, many businesses choose to switch. This guide walks you through the key reasons for migrating, the steps to take, what data transfers, and how to ensure your migration is smooth, accurate, and efficient.
Why Businesses Are Switching from Xero to QuickBooks
QuickBooks Online is one of the most widely adopted accounting solutions in North America. Businesses migrating from Xero to QuickBooks often cite these advantages:
1. Broader Integration Ecosystem
QuickBooks integrates with over 750 apps, including Gusto, Stripe, Shopify, HubSpot, and Square. While Xero has many integrations, QuickBooks’ ecosystem is broader and better supported in the U.S.
2. Better Support and Ecosystem in North America
QuickBooks has a larger U.S. support infrastructure, more ProAdvisors, and deeper integration with U.S. tax and banking systems. For U.S.-based businesses, it often provides a smoother experience.
3. Scalability with QuickBooks Online Advanced
QuickBooks Online Advanced supports up to 25 users and includes tools like custom workflows, enhanced reporting, and role-based access—ideal for growing teams.
4. Native Payroll Options
QuickBooks has a fully integrated payroll system. Xero Payroll is not available in many U.S. states, often requiring third-party workarounds.
5. Easier Collaboration with U.S.-Based Accountants
Many CPAs and bookkeepers in the U.S. are certified QuickBooks ProAdvisors, making collaboration, tax prep, and compliance more streamlined.
Who Should Consider a Xero Migration to QuickBooks?
A Xero-to-QuickBooks migration makes the most sense for businesses that:
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Operate primarily in North America
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Are scaling and need more advanced features or users
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Want easier access to U.S.-specific integrations or support
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Prefer a more familiar platform for their accountants or tax professionals
What Transfers During a Xero Migration to QuickBooks?
Before migrating, it’s critical to understand which data elements transfer automatically and which need manual work.

Source: Intuit QuickBooks Data Services, Dataswitcher
Real-World Example
Client: A digital marketing agency with 12 employees
Reason for Migration: Xero lacked payroll support for their state, and their bookkeeper preferred QuickBooks for reporting and 1099 filings.
Solution: Migrated to QuickBooks Online Advanced using Dataswitcher.
Results:
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Completed migration in 4 business days
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Rebuilt key reports in QBO with custom tags
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Cut payroll processing time by 50% with QuickBooks Payroll
Xero vs QuickBooks: Side-by-Side Comparison

FAQs About Xero Migration to QuickBooks
Q: How long does a Xero migration to QuickBooks take?
A: Small business migrations typically take 2–5 business days. Complex setups or large historical data imports can take 1–2 weeks.
Q: Will I lose my Xero data?
A: No. Your Xero data remains intact. You should download and archive PDFs or CSVs of historical reports before canceling your subscription.
Q: Can I migrate all of my historical transactions?
A: Not natively. QuickBooks typically supports importing 12–24 months of transactions. For full history, use a tool like Dataswitcher.
Q: Can I access Xero after migration?
A: Yes, as long as your subscription is active. Consider downgrading to a lower plan for record access or exporting all key reports.
Q: Do bank feeds transfer from Xero to QuickBooks?
A: No. You’ll need to reconnect your bank accounts and credit cards in QuickBooks.
Final Thoughts
A Xero migration to QuickBooks can streamline your accounting operations, improve payroll management, and align you with the most widely-used accounting system in the U.S. With the right tools and preparation, it can be a smooth, efficient process.
Whether you’re migrating due to functionality, team preferences, or scalability, QuickBooks offers the flexibility and power your business needs to grow with confidence.
Need Help Migrating from Xero to QuickBooks?
We specialize in seamless QuickBooks data migrations—including from Xero, Sage, NetSuite, and Microsoft Dynamics. Our ProAdvisors will guide you from data prep to go-live with zero downtime.
Schedule your free consultation now.