packages/twenty-docs/user-guide/data-migration/overview.mdx
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Twenty supports two main methods for importing data:
| Method | Best For | Volume Limit |
|---|---|---|
| CSV Import | Standard migrations, regular updates | 10,000 records per file |
| API Import | Large-scale migrations, automation | Unlimited |
<Note>For very large datasets (hundreds of thousands of records), use the API. Our implementation partners can help run these scripts if needed.</Note>
You can import data for any object using CSV, XLSX, or XLS files. Each file should contain only one type of object (e.g., only People records).
<Note>Fields must exist before import. Uploading a CSV creates records but does not create fields. If you need custom fields, create them first under Settings → Data Model.</Note>
You can import relations between objects using the csv import function. You need to reference the related object using a unique field from this object: the id, the email for People and Workspace Members, the domain for companies, any other field set as unique in the data model for any other object.
<Note>Deleted records count toward uniqueness. Soft-deleted records (visible under Command Menu → See deleted records) are included in uniqueness checks. If you import a record with the same unique value as a deleted record, the deleted record will be restored.</Note>
<Warning> **Import Order Matters!**When importing related objects, upload files in this order:
Why? The "one" side of a one-to-many relationship must exist before you can reference it. For example, the Company record must exist before you import a Person with that company's ID. </Warning>
Please refer to this article for a step-by-step guide on how to proceed.
Export your workspace data for backups, reporting, or migration.
<Note>Only visible columns are exported. The CSV file will only contain the columns displayed in your current view. Add or hide columns before exporting to control what data is included.</Note>
<Note>Export limits: Up to 20,000 records per export.</Note>
Data import and export require specific permissions:
Contact your workspace admin if you don't have these permissions.