Dolibarr is an open-source ERP and CRM that allows businesses to efficiently manage their finances, invoicing, and accounting. While Dolibarr includes accounting features, many businesses prefer to export their financial data to a dedicated accounting software such as Sage, QuickBooks, EBP, Odoo, Ciel, or other accounting tools for more advanced financial management.

In this article, we will explore how to export accounting data from Dolibarr to an accounting software, covering setup steps, export formats, and best practices to ensure a smooth and error-free data transfer.

1. Why Export Accounting Data from Dolibarr?

While Dolibarr provides an accounting module, it may be limited for advanced accounting needs, such as:

• Double-entry bookkeeping.
• Detailed analytical tracking.
• Tax declaration and financial reporting.
• Integration with accountants and financial advisors.

Exporting data to an accounting software allows for a more structured, compliant, and tax-efficient financial management.

2. Preparing for the Accounting Data Export

Before exporting data from Dolibarr, it is essential to prepare the system to ensure a clean and structured transfer.

2.1 Verify Accounting Account Configuration

• Navigate to "Setup" → "Accounting" → "Chart of Accounts".
• Ensure that each sales, purchase, VAT, and bank account is correctly assigned.
• If necessary, customize the chart of accounts according to your accounting software’s requirements.

2.2 Review Invoicing and Payment Data

• Verify that all customer and supplier invoices are correctly recorded.
• Ensure that payments are correctly linked to invoices.
• Identify any unpaid invoices to avoid accounting discrepancies.

2.3 Select the Appropriate Export Format

Dolibarr offers various export formats depending on the target accounting software:

• CSV (Comma-Separated Values): A universal format compatible with Excel and most accounting software.
• XML: Used for more automated integrations.
• FEC (Fichier des Écritures Comptables): A specific format required in France for tax compliance.

3. Exporting Accounting Data from Dolibarr

3.1 Access the Accounting Export Module

1. Go to "Tools" → "Data Export".
2. Select "Accounting/Finance" to view the available export options.
3. Choose the data to export:
   • Customer invoices.
   • Supplier invoices.
   • Payments received and made.
   • Accounting entries (if the advanced accounting module is enabled).

3.2 Configure Export Filters and Options

• Select the desired period (monthly, quarterly, fiscal year).
• Choose the export format (CSV, XML, FEC).
• Ensure that data is properly allocated to the correct accounting accounts.

3.3 Generate and Download the Accounting File

• Click "Export" to generate the accounting file.
• Download the file and review its content before importing.

4. Importing Data into an Accounting Software

Once the file is exported from Dolibarr, it must be imported into the accounting software. Below are the steps for common accounting software:

4.1 Import Data into Sage

• Open Sage Accounting.
• Navigate to "File" → "Import" → "Accounting Data".
• Select the CSV/XML file exported from Dolibarr.
• Map the columns (dates, accounts, amounts).
• Validate and complete the import process.

4.2 Import Data into QuickBooks

• Go to "Import Data".
• Select CSV or Excel format.
• Match Dolibarr fields with QuickBooks accounting fields.
• Confirm and validate transactions.

4.3 Import Data into EBP

• Go to "Tools" → "Import".
• Select the FEC format if required by tax authorities.
• Ensure that all accounting entries are correctly mapped.
• Validate the import.

5. Best Practices for a Successful Accounting Data Export

5.1 Verify Data Consistency

Before exporting, ensure that:
✅ Accounting accounts are correctly assigned.
✅ Payments are linked to invoices.
✅ Dates and periods are accurate.

5.2 Automate the Export Process

• Use a Dolibarr connector for Sage, QuickBooks, or EBP to avoid manual exports.
• Schedule automatic periodic exports to prevent data accumulation at the end of the fiscal year.

5.3 Work with an Accountant

If you are unsure about data accuracy, have a certified accountant review the records before importing them into an accounting software.

6. Common Errors and How to Fix Them

6.1 Format Errors

• Ensure that the exported file matches the requirements of the accounting software.
• Verify that column separators (commas, semicolons) are correct.

6.2 Incomplete Accounting Data

• Confirm that all invoices are validated before exporting.
• Ensure that payments are correctly linked to transactions.

6.3 Compatibility Issues with the Accounting Software

• Some software requires specific formats (XML, FEC) – make sure the format is compatible.
• If necessary, use a conversion tool to transform CSV files into XML or other supported formats.

Conclusion

Exporting accounting data from Dolibarr to an accounting software is a crucial step in ensuring rigorous financial management and tax compliance.

With Dolibarr’s export features, businesses can seamlessly transfer accounting data to specialized tools like Sage, QuickBooks, EBP, and Odoo, optimizing financial management processes.

???? By following best export practices and conducting regular data checks, you can avoid errors and maintain smooth, efficient accounting tracking.

???? Do you already use Dolibarr’s accounting export feature? Share your experience in the comments!