Handling Data Import and Export in SQL Server - A Beginner's Tutorial


Importing and exporting data in SQL Server is a fundamental skill for managing databases. In this beginner's tutorial, we'll explore the basics of data import and export in SQL Server, including using the SQL Server Import and Export Wizard and executing SQL queries for data transfer.


Why Data Import and Export Matters

Effective data import and export are essential for:


  • Migrating Data: Moving data between different database systems or server instances.
  • Backup and Restore: Backing up and restoring data to ensure data integrity and recovery.
  • Data Integration: Combining data from various sources into a central database.

Using the SQL Server Import and Export Wizard

The SQL Server Import and Export Wizard is a graphical tool that simplifies data transfer. You can use it to transfer data between SQL Server databases, flat files, or other data sources:


  1. Open SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).
  2. Connect to your SQL Server instance.
  3. Right-click on the database where you want to import/export data and select "Tasks" -> "Import Data" or "Export Data."
  4. Follow the wizard's steps to configure your data transfer.

Using SQL Queries for Data Transfer

You can also use SQL queries to import and export data. The 

INSERT INTO
, 
SELECT INTO
, and 
BULK INSERT
statements are common for this purpose:


-- Import data from one table to another
INSERT INTO DestinationTable
SELECT * FROM SourceTable;
-- Export data to a flat file
BULK INSERT TargetTable
FROM 'C:\Data\SourceData.txt'
WITH (FIELDTERMINATOR = ',');

What's Next?

As a beginner, mastering data import and export is a crucial foundation for database management. You can further explore more advanced techniques like ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes, data integration services, and scheduling data transfer tasks.