Export and Import SharePoint Content

Step by Step:
Export / Import SharePoint Content

 

Objectives:

This document describes how to export and import SharePoint Content from one Site / Site collection to another.

 

Limitations:

 

See end of document

 

Prerequisites

 

  • RDP Session on SharePoint Server with administrative Rights
  • Create Shared Folder for Network Access (e.g. \\MOSS\Backup )

 

Estimated Timeto complete actions

 

  • Export: ~2 minutes -  depending on content amount
  • Import: ~5 minutes - depending on content amount

 

Tasks

Detailed Steps

Export Content

Open Central Administration via Start Menu:

Click on "Backup and Restore" 

Click on "Export a site or list" in the section "Granular Backup"

By clicking on the small arrow you can choose the right Site or List to export

Ensure to specify the right export path and choose appropriate Option for "Export versions". Then click on "Start Export"

Check your network folder for the generated file and log.

Keep in mind: The more content you export, the longer it lasts to generatethe export file.

 

Repeat the Export procedure for additional lists or sites.

 

Import content

Open SharePoint Management Shell via Start Menu

Type "Import-SPWeb " followed by two parameter values

  • - Destination address (URL to site)
  • - Source path (local or UNC Path)

Full command e.g.:

"Import-SPWeb https://moss/sites/demo2  -Path c:\folder\myPackage.cmp"

   Attention: Don't specify the destination path deeper than the site level!

In case of an error you get a red text:

In case of success you get a white text

Additionally you can check the generated log file as shown in your Shell window.

   Repeat the Import procedure for additional lists or sites.

  

Additional information

   Be aware of the following information:

  • Don't mix export and import language - be sure that both sites use the same language!
  • Be sure you have activated the required site features before import!
  • Don't mix site templates in case of exporting & importing a whole site!(the destination site must have the same template as your source)

 

Comments

  • Anonymous
    February 08, 2012
    Excellent article - every info you need on one sight. Thanks Volker ;-)