Trying to import into QuickBooks Online the item list from QuickBooks Desktop. I'm assuming it goes into Products and Services. Why no option for an item to be inventory?

Hey there, Charles. 

What you've been told about QuickBooks Online (QBO) doesn't have a direct option to mass import inventory items from QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) is right. However, I can show you how to import bulk inventory items to QBO.

Since QBDT is being discontinued in your region, moving your data at once isn't possible. 

Yet, you can utilize the Movemybooks third-party app that they partnered with. It can automatically transfer your QBDT data to QBO.

For more info, you can read this article: QuickBooks Desktop discontinuation support.

On the other hand, we can create a spreadsheet of your products and services in Excel or CSV and import the file to QBO. You can download a sample file for a formatting guide in your account. Here's how: 

1. Choose Import data from the Settings.
2. Select Product and Services. Then, Download a sample file and open it.

Moreover, there are approved characters list before importing the inventory file. Take note that it can't be undone once you import the list. Also, you can only migrate 1,000 rows at a time.

Check out this article for more info: Import products and services into QuickBooks Online.

You might want to view your imported items through reports. Feel free to read this article: Run reports in QuickBooks Online.

Come back here if you have additional questions about importing your inventory items in QBO. I'll be willing to assist you. Keep safe, and enjoy the rest of the week.