How to Move SharePoint List to Another Site

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to move sharepoint list to another site.

In this Guide:

SharePoint lists play a crucial role in keeping your information organized and manageable. But there might come a time when you need to transfer a list from one SharePoint site to another. Whether it’s for restructuring or consolidating your data, SharePoint has some handy methods to help you get the job done smoothly.

Steps to Move a SharePoint List to Another Site

1. Export the List to Excel

  1. Start by opening the SharePoint site that holds the list you want to move.
  2. Find the list you’re looking to transfer.
  3. Click on the Export to Excel option in the list ribbon.
    • Save the downloaded .iqy file to your computer.

2. Create a New List on the Target Site

  1. Next, head over to the SharePoint site where you want to move the list.
  2. Please check the Settings → Site Contents → + New List.
  3. Select a Custom List and give it the same name as the original.

3. Import Data Using Excel

  1. Open the exported file in Excel.
  2. Use File → Open to access the .iqy file.
  3. Clean up the data by removing any unnecessary columns or rows.
  4. Save it as an Excel file (.xlsx).
  5. Go to the new list in SharePoint, click Edit in Grid View and copy-paste the data from Excel.

4. Use Power Automate for Automated Migration

If you find yourself needing to move lists frequently, consider using Power Automate (formerly known as Microsoft Flow):

  1. Create a new flow.
  2. Set a trigger, like a button press or a schedule.
  3. Add actions to Get Items from the original list and Create Items in the target list.
  4. Map the fields between the source and destination lists.
  5. Save and run the flow to migrate your data.

5. Verify Permissions and Customizations

  • Make sure the user permissions on the target list are the same as those on the original.
  • Manually recreate any workflows, views, or list settings that didn’t carry over.

Best Practices for Moving SharePoint Lists

  • Backup the Original List: Before diving in, make sure to back up the original list. This way, you can avoid any accidental data loss.

  • Maintain Consistent Data Structure: It's crucial to ensure that the field names and types in your new list align with those in the original. This helps prevent any errors down the line.

  • Test Migration: Conduct a test migration using sample data first. This will allow you to verify that everything works smoothly before you tackle the entire list.

  • Document Changes: Keep a detailed record of any changes made during the migration process. This will be helpful for future reference.

By following these steps and best practices, you can successfully transfer a SharePoint list to another site, ensuring data integrity and a seamless transition for your team.

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