Convert QuickBooks Enterprise to Pro

QuickBooks Enterprise is an advanced business management software and QuickBooks Pro is a platform to manage similar requirements on a smaller scale. Users can convert from QuickBooks Enterprise to Pro by first converting QuickBooks Desktop to Online. After the conversion is completed, users can choose the QuickBooks Online Plan based on their business requirements.

QuickBooks Enterprise and Pro differ mainly in their scalability and features. While Pro suits small to mid-sized businesses, Enterprise is designed for larger companies, offering support for up to 30 users and advanced pricing options tailored to customers and sales data. Enterprise also provides a mobile version for warehouse workers to manage tasks more efficiently. Switching to Pro is a great alternative for businesses with simpler needs, if cost is a concern.

Switching from QuickBooks Enterprise to Pro makes sense if your business has fewer than 14,500 items. QuickBooks Pro offers similar benefits as Enterprise but at a significantly lower cost, making it a more affordable and efficient option for smaller businesses.

Here’s a guide to Convert QuickBooks Enterprise to Pro without losing any company file data.

Step 1: Create a Backup of Your QuickBooks Enterprise Company File

• Open QuickBooks Enterprise.
• Select the File menu and ensure it is displayed. Switch to single-user mode if you are in multi-user mode.
• In the File menu, select Backup Company.
• Choose Create Local Backup.
• A backup popup will appear. Choose Local Backup and click Next.
• Click Browse to find the location where you want to save the backup file.
• Optionally, choose the number of backups you want to perform.
• QuickBooks will run a test on the backup file to check for any issues. If the test is successful, click OK to proceed.
• Click Next and then Save it Now. Wait for QuickBooks to create the backup file. You will be notified once the process is complete.

Step 2: Restore the Backup in QuickBooks Pro

• Open QuickBooks Pro.
• In the File menu, select Open and then click Restore Company File.
• Choose Restore a Backup Copy and click Next.
• Find the backup file on your computer by clicking Browse. Select the folder and click Open.
• Click Save to complete the restoration process.

Step 3: Export Data from QuickBooks Enterprise

You will need to export your data before importing it into QuickBooks Pro.

A. Export Customer, Supplier, and Payroll Data

• Open QuickBooks and go to the Customer/Supplier/Payroll Center.
• In the drop-down menu, click Excel.
• To export customer, employee, or supplier details such as name, address, or balance, select Export List.
• To export specific transactions, choose Export Transaction.
• Click Create a New Worksheet and then click Export.

B. Export Item Data

• In QuickBooks, go to the Lists menu and select Item List.
• Click the Excel drop-down.
• Choose Export All Items.
• Select Create a New Worksheet and click Export.

C. Export Reports

• In QuickBooks, go to the Lists menu and select Item List.
• Click the Excel drop-down.
• Select Create New Worksheet and check your preferences.
• Click Export.

Step 4: Import Data into QuickBooks Pro

• Open QuickBooks Pro and go to the File menu.
• Click Utilities and select Import.
• Choose Excel Files and follow the on-screen instructions.
• Select the data type you are importing. QuickBooks will format the data for you.
• If needed, manually input any missing data by clicking the Add My Data Now button.
• After reviewing the data, click Close to complete the process.

Step 5: Review and Verify Your Data

After importing the data, review all the transferred information. Make sure no data was missed. If anything is missing, enter the details manually. Check for errors and correct them as needed.

Step 6: Things You Can Transfer to QuickBooks Pro

Several items from your QuickBooks Enterprise account can be transferred to QuickBooks Pro. These include:

• Accounts
• Employees
• Items
• Vendors
• Classes
• Customers
• Lists

Additionally, both financial and non-financial transactions can be transferred. This includes payroll, purchase orders, accounts payable, and accounts receivable, along with any connections or payments related to invoices.

What are the Prerequisites to Convert QuickBooks Enterprise to Pro?

To convert from QuickBooks Enterprise to QuickBooks Pro or Premier, the following prerequisites must be met:

• Limited accounts: QuickBooks Pro only supports up to 3 users. You can join a maximum of 3 accounts after the conversion.
• New license: You need to purchase a new license for QuickBooks Pro. Install the software and activate it to keep it working.
• Data file: After the conversion, you will receive a file for your QuickBooks Pro software to continue working.
• Previous data: Files from earlier QuickBooks versions can be restored in the newer version.
• File size limit: Your QuickBooks file must be under 350,000 targets. For larger files, consider staying with QuickBooks Enterprise.
• File trimming: If your file is too large, you may need to trim it. Learn how to reduce the file size to avoid data loss or corruption.
• QuickBooks Online trial: You must register for a free trial of QuickBooks Online at qbo.intuit.com.
• 60-day import window: You can import QuickBooks Desktop data within 60 days after starting QuickBooks Online. This will overwrite any previous QuickBooks Online data.
• Admin access: You need administrator access to both QuickBooks Online and the desktop file.
• Browser requirement: Use Internet Explorer for Windows. Other browsers will not work for this process.

What is the Difference Between QuickBooks Pro and QuickBooks Enterprise?

Before you start QuickBooks Enterprise to Pro Conversion, check out the differences mentioned below.

• User Capacity: QuickBooks Enterprise supports 1 to 40 users, while QuickBooks Pro supports up to 3 users.
• Inventory Management: Enterprise offers advanced inventory tracking features, while Pro offers basic inventory tools.
• Customization: QuickBooks Enterprise is highly customizable for complex business needs, while Pro provides only core accounting functions suitable for smaller businesses.
• Reporting: Enterprise offers detailed and advanced reporting features, whereas Pro has simpler reports for smaller businesses.
• Target Business Size: Enterprise is ideal for large or growing businesses, while Pro is designed for small to medium-sized businesses.
• Industry-Specific Editions: QuickBooks Enterprise has specialized editions for industries like manufacturing and wholesale, while Pro offers general features for various business types.
• Cloud Access: Enterprise offers an online option for remote access, while Pro is available only for desktop use.
• Advanced Features: Enterprise includes HR management tools, multiple warehouse support, and industry-specific reports. Pro provides basic accounting functions such as invoice creation and expense tracking.
• Backup: QuickBooks Pro stores data locally on the computer, making it important to maintain an online backup to avoid data loss. Enterprise also offers cloud storage for added security and accessibility.

Why Should I Convert from QuickBooks Enterprise to QuickBooks Pro?

Here’a why you should convert to QuickBooks Pro :

• QuickBooks Pro is cheaper than QuickBooks Enterprise.
• If your business has fewer than 14,500 items (products, vendors, or customers), Pro can meet your needs.
• QuickBooks Pro offers similar benefits to Enterprise for smaller businesses.
• You can easily transfer your data from QuickBooks Enterprise to Pro using QuickBooks Online (QBO), a tool designed for this task.
• If you don’t need the advanced features of Enterprise, switching to Pro can save money.

When Should You Seek Professional Help to Convert QuickBooks Enterprise to QuickBooks Pro?

You must seek for professional help to convert from QuickBooks Pro to Enterprise, if

• You cannot complete the conversion from QuickBooks Enterprise to QuickBooks Pro.
• You encounter errors during the conversion process.
• You need assistance with data transfer or file compatibility.
• You face issues with licensing or activation.

Contact ReconcileBooks for professional support when you need help converting your QuickBooks software.

Frequently Asked Questions