Importing IIF files

Question

I need to update the gross cost in the inventory.  I backed up a copy of the company, exported the item list as an IIF file, opened it with excel then updated the costs. I then saved it to my PC as an IIF file.  The file extension is .iif but the file type is Text.  Can I import it back to Reckon or is there another step I need to take?

Thanks, Mary Ann

Datarec · Answer

It is a good idea to create a backup of the data file using the built-in Backup function with the 'Complete Verification' option enabled.

Then make a COPY of the company data file (QBW) and clearly rename the file, adding a prefix to the company file name like "TEST IIF Import - ".

Open the copy of the data file and modify the 'Company Information' area, adding a prefix to the company name like "TEST IIF Import - "

Test your IIF import on that copy.

MaryAnn_9618203 · Answer

Thanks.  I haven't tried it yet because it's the end of our financial year and I got busy with other stuff.  I'll try again in a few weeks but maybe try first on a backup copy.

Datarec · Answer

Hi @MaryAnn_9618203

Did you actually attempt to import the modified IIF/text file to confirm whether it enacted the changes you are expecting?

The IIF file is just a plain-text tab-delimited format file.

Having a file extension ".txt" or ".iif.txt" is okay, although you can change it just ".iif" to make it easier for the Reckon Accounts application import dialog screen to recognise it.

When an Item List is exported as an IIF file, not all columns showing values in that IIF are able to be used in an import (even if you change the values) as some of those columns are for 'read-only' such as by another application that needs to read-in values coming from a Reckon Accounts data file.