We have placed order for a MacBook. Once it arrives, how do I convert our PC-based QuickBooks files to use on the MacBook?

Hi there, @johndporterwfc.

I'm glad to see you posting here in the Community forum. I can provide you with the steps to convert your QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) for windows to the QBDT for Mac version.

To proceed, you'll need to purchase a new subscription for QBDT Mac and install it on your computer. Let's first make sure we update QBDT for Windows to the latest release. Then, follow the steps below: 

1. Open the file as the administrator.
2. Go to the File menu, then select Utilities.
3.  Select Copy Company File for QuickBooks Mac, then follow the onscreen instructions. QuickBooks creates a MAC.qbb (backup) file.
4. Copy the .qbb file to a CD, USB flash drive, or some other media. You can also use a network or file sharing service, such as Dropbox, to transfer the file.

Then, it creates a MAC.qbb file copy of a QBDT company file that you can restore in QBDT for Mac. Here’s how:

1. Update QBDT for Mac to the latest release.
2. Close QuickBooks.
3. Copy the .qbb file to your Documents folder.
4. Reopen QuickBooks Desktop for Mac, then select File, and choose Open Company.
5. Select the MAC.qbb file, and then click Open.
6. Click OK when asked if you want to restore a QuickBooks for Windows file.
7. Enter a name for the restored file, and then click Save.

The conversion process can take up to ten minutes, depending on the size of your data file. Upon completion of the conversion, QuickBooks opens the file. For more information about the process, please check out this article: Convert a QuickBooks for Windows file to QuickBooks for Mac.

However, if you want to move your QBDT file to QuickBooks Online (QBO), then you still have to purchase a new QBO subscription. Then, follow the steps outlined in this article: Move your QuickBooks Desktop file to QuickBooks Online.

Additionally, after migrating, don't forget to compare your financial reports and other data. By doing this, you can be sure that your books are always accurate. Check out what to do after you move from QBDT for Windows or Mac to QBO for more instructions.

Please update us after performing the steps, as I want to ensure you can convert your file seamlessly. I'd be happy to help you out if you have any other questions or concerns. Stay safe!

@johndporterwfc 

Which QB Desktop (Windows) year version do you run?