Export DBF to SQL Server

Working with legacy databases often means dealing with DBF files. These dBASE or FoxPro tables are still widely used in accounting, ERP, and other industry-specific applications. However, when companies migrate to modern systems, they usually prefer storing their data in Microsoft SQL Server for reliability, scalability, and integration with enterprise tools.

One of the most convenient ways to convert DBF files into SQL Server scripts is through DBF Viewer 2000. This lightweight but powerful tool allows both manual export and automated batch conversion, eliminating the need for complex ODBC drivers or risky third-party scripts.

Why Convert DBF to SQL Server?

Data centralization: SQL Server provides a secure, enterprise-grade environment for storing and managing large datasets.
Integration: Modern business applications, BI platforms, and reporting tools integrate natively with SQL Server.
Performance: Queries on large tables run faster and more reliably in SQL Server than in flat DBF files.
Long-term support: Unlike DBF, which is tied to legacy applications, SQL Server is actively developed and supported by Microsoft.

Export via DBF Viewer 2000 GUI

Step 1. Open the DBF file.

Start DBF Viewer 2000 and open the .dbf file you want to export. The table contents will appear in the main window.

Step 2. Choose Export.

Go to the top menu and select "File | Save As/Export". Select SQL Server format. In the export dialog, you’ll see several database formats. Pick SQL Server (MS SQL) as the target.

Step 3. Save the output script.

Provide a destination file name, for example: customers.sql

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DBF to SQL Server Exporting via Command Line

Simple Export to SQL Server format

"c:\Program Files (x86)\DBF Viewer 2000\dbview.exe" sample.dbf /EXPORT:script.sql /MSSQL

Create Database without records

"c:\Program Files (x86)\DBF Viewer 2000\dbview.exe" sample.dbf /EXPORT:mydatabase.sql /MSSQL /CREATEONLY

Export with Columns Selection

"c:\Program Files (x86)\DBF Viewer 2000\dbview.exe" mybase.dbf /EXPORT:myscript.sql /MSSQL /COLUMNS:ZIP,NAME,PHONE

Export with Columns Names

"c:\Program Files\DBF Viewer 2000\dbview.exe" mydatabase.dbf /EXPORT:myscript.sql /MSSQL /INSERTWITHCOLUMNS

FAQ

Q: Can I export multiple DBF files to SQL Server at once with DBF Viewer 2000?

A: Yes. Using the command-line mode, you can create a batch script to process multiple DBF files automatically. This is useful for large migrations or recurring tasks.

Q: Does DBF Viewer 2000 preserve indexes and relationships when exporting to SQL Server?

A: No. The tool exports the table structure and data, but DBF indexes and relationships need to be recreated manually in SQL Server after the import.

Q: What SQL Server versions are supported for DBF export?

A: The generated SQL scripts are compatible with most versions of Microsoft SQL Server.

Do you need other options for SQL Server format generation?

Please, contact us by E-mail: support@dbf2002.com or by On-line form.

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