How to Create a .QBM File

Step-by-step guide to creating a Portable Company File from QuickBooks Enterprise

What is a .QBM file?

A .QBM (Portable Company File) is a compact version of your QuickBooks company file. It contains all your financial data in a smaller, transportable format — typically 5-30 MB. This is the file type accepted by our QuickBooks Enterprise conversion service.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Open Your Company File

Open QuickBooks Enterprise and ensure your company file is loaded. Make sure you're logged in as the Admin user.

2

Go to File Menu

Click on File in the top menu bar, then select Create Copy.

3

Select Portable Company File

In the dialog that appears, select Portable company file (.QBM). Do NOT select 'Backup copy' — that creates a .QBB file which we cannot process.

4

Click Next

Click the Next button to proceed to the save location dialog.

5

Choose Save Location

Select a location to save the file — your Desktop is a good choice for easy access. Note the file name and location.

6

Wait for Creation

QuickBooks will close your company file temporarily, create the portable file, then reopen your company file. This may take a few minutes for large files.

7

Upload to NexFortis

Go to our Order page, select your service, and upload the .QBM file you just created.

Common Mistakes

  • Uploading a .QBB (Backup) file — much larger, different format
  • Uploading a .QBW (Working) file — cannot be transferred safely
  • Uploading a .QBO file — this is QuickBooks Online format
  • Selecting "Backup copy" instead of "Portable company file"

File Size Guide

  • Typical .QBM size: 5-30 MB
  • Maximum upload size: 500 MB
  • Files over 100 MB may take longer to process
  • If your file exceeds 500 MB, contact us for alternative delivery