Sage to SmartBooks migration checklist for UK firms.
A practical checklist for moving selected Sage clients into SmartBooks without losing control of archive, balances or workflow.
The short answer
A Sage migration checklist should cover source backups, exports, custom reports, opening balances, VAT position, client contacts, recent history and post-migration review. Treat it as a workflow migration, not only a data import.
Before migration
- Back up the Sage file and export core reports.
- List custom reports, add-ons and desktop dependencies.
- Choose low-risk pilot clients first.
Data checks
- Map accounts and contacts.
- Verify opening balances.
- Check VAT position and outstanding items.
Workflow rollout
- Train clients on Smart Inbox intake routes.
- Set review rules for recurring suppliers.
- Keep archive access for historical questions.
How to use this template
- Desktop-heavy clients need extra dependency review.
- Do not promise one-click migration for complex Sage 50 setups.
- Use the pilot to document the repeatable process for the next cohort.
Related pages
FAQs
Why keep Sage backups after migration?
Backups protect the audit trail and make it easier to answer historical questions if a migrated record needs checking later.
Which Sage clients should move first?
Start with clients that have simpler records, fewer custom dependencies and obvious benefit from cloud intake or review workflow.
Use the checklist inside SmartBooks.
The template is the starting point. SmartBooks turns the work into intake, review queues, reminders and accountant approval.
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