If you want to move master data between environments in Business Central, you can export all your master data templates to an XML file and import them into another environment. This is useful when you set up everything in a sandbox first and then move it into production once you are ready.
You export the templates from the Global Master Template Package page. Use the Get Templates function to pull the templates into the journal, then use Export Packages to generate the XML file.
You can filter the package before exporting if you only need to move some of the templates instead of all of them.
Why export and import master data templates
A common way to work is to set up everything in a sandbox environment first. You configure your master data templates, test them, and make sure everything works the way you want. When you are ready to go live, you move the setup into your production environment.
The Master Data Sync functionality lets you do this without rebuilding everything by hand. You export all your templates to XML files and import them into the live environment.
How to export master data templates to an XML file
Start by going to Setup and opening the Global Master Template Package. This is where you collect the packages into a journal before exporting them to an XML file.
To pull the templates into the journal, choose More options, then Actions, then Function, and select Get Templates. Mark the templates you want to export. If you want to move everything, mark all of them and press OK.
You now have all the templates in the journal and are ready to export them.
Go to Actions, then Packages, and choose Export Packages. At this point you can apply a filter on the package if you only need to export a few of the templates. If you want to move everything, leave the filter open and press OK.
The file is then exported and ready for import in your production environment.
Q&A
How do I export all master data templates to an XML file in Business Central?
Open the Global Master Template Package under Setup. Use More options, Actions, Function, and Get Templates to pull the templates into the journal. Mark the templates you want, press OK, then go to Actions, Packages, and Export Packages to generate the XML file.
Can I export only some of the master data templates instead of all of them?
Yes. When you run Export Packages, you can apply a filter on the package to export only the templates you need. If you want to move everything, leave the filter open and press OK.
Why would I export and import master data templates between environments?
It lets you set up and test your master data templates in a sandbox first, then move the finished setup into your production environment without rebuilding it by hand.