> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.movingbox.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Import & Export Data

> Backup, export, and import your MovingBox inventory data

Export your inventory to create backups, transfer between devices, or share with others. Exports are ZIP files containing CSVs (items, locations, labels) and photos.

<Card title="Download Sample Export" icon="download" href="https://movingbox.ai/MovingBox-export-example.zip">
  See what a MovingBox export looks like with this example file
</Card>

## Export

### Export All Data

1. Go to **Settings** → **Sync and Data** → **Export Data**
2. Choose what to export (Items, Locations, Labels)
3. Tap **Export Data**
4. Save or share the ZIP file

### Export Selected Items

1. In your inventory list, tap the selection icon
2. Select items to export
3. Tap the export button
4. Save or share the ZIP file

<Note>
  Selected item exports include all locations and labels to maintain relationships.
</Note>

## Import

<Warning>
  Imports **do not check for duplicates**. Importing the same file multiple times will duplicate your data.
</Warning>

1. Go to **Settings** → **Sync and Data** → **Import Data**
2. Choose what to import (Items, Locations, Labels)
3. Tap **Continue** and select your ZIP file
4. Review the import summary when complete

<Tip>
  Only import data previously exported from MovingBox. Generic CSV files or exports from other apps are not supported.
</Tip>

## Best Practices

* **Backup regularly** - Export monthly and before major app updates or device transfers
* **Store securely** - Keep backups in cloud storage and locally for redundancy
* **Avoid duplicates** - Track what you've imported; delete old data before re-importing
* **Name files clearly** - Use descriptive names with dates (e.g., `MovingBox-Full-Backup-2025-01-15.zip`)

## Troubleshooting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Import Failed">
    * Verify the ZIP file isn't corrupted
    * Check available storage for photos
    * Try importing data types separately
    * Cancel and retry
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Missing Photos">
    * Verify photos exist in the export's `photos/` folder
    * Check ZIP file structure is intact
    * Confirm sufficient storage space
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Export Button Disabled">
    * Enable at least one export option (Items, Locations, or Labels)
    * Verify you have data to export
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

<Note>
  Need help? Visit our [support page](/03-support/getting-help) for assistance.
</Note>