Understanding targets in QuickBooks Online: A simple guide

Migrating from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online (QBO) can be a complex task, especially when dealing with large data files. One crucial aspect to understand during this process is the concept of “targets.” This blog post aims to:

1. Demystify what targets are
2. Their importance
3. How to manage them effectively during your migration to QBO.

What are targets in QuickBooks?

In QuickBooks, a target is essentially each line on a transaction. For instance, if you have an invoice with multiple lines, each line item, whether it’s a product, service, or even a blank line, counts as a target. This concept is crucial because QuickBooks Online has a limit of 750,000 targets for data migration. Exceeding this limit can prevent a successful migration from QuickBooks Desktop to QBO.

Why do targets matter?

Targets matter because they directly impact your ability to migrate data to QBO. If your QuickBooks Desktop file exceeds the 750,000 target limit, you won’t be able to complete the migration without reducing the number of targets. Understanding and managing your targets can save you time and avoid potential headaches during the migration process.

How to check the number of targets in your QuickBooks file

To check the number of targets in your QuickBooks Desktop file, follow these steps:

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop
2. Press F2 on your keyboard (or Ctrl+1) to open the Product Information window
3. Look for the ‘Total Targets’ field in the window that appears

This will show you the total number of targets in your file. For example, in the Larry’s Landscaping and Garden Supply Sample Company, deleting a line from an invoice reduced the total number of targets by one.

Managing targets effectively

If your file has more than 750,000 targets, you will need to reduce this number to migrate successfully. Here are some strategies to manage your targets:

1. Consolidate Transactions: Merge similar transactions where possible to reduce the number of line items.
2. Archive Old Transactions: Consider archiving or deleting old transactions that are no longer needed. Ensure you keep backups before doing this.
3. Use Subtotals: Instead of listing every item individually, use subtotals to group similar items together.

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Practical example

Let’s say you run a landscaping business and you have an invoice with the following lines:

• Replanting a parking lot
• Quantity of 10
• A blank line
• Installation of landscape design

Each of these lines is considered a target. If you delete one line, the total number of targets decreases accordingly. This example illustrates how every transaction line impacts your total target count.

The bottom line

Understanding and managing targets is essential for a smooth migration from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online. By keeping track of your target count and using strategies to reduce them, you can ensure a successful transition to QBO.

For more detailed guidance and personalized assistance with your QuickBooks migration, contact us at Peak Advisers. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of QuickBooks and ensure your financial data is accurately and efficiently managed.

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