Learn How to Create and Open A Portable File in QB Desktop
                     How to Create and Open A 
Portable File in QB Desktop?
A portable file in QuickBooks Desktop functions as a condensed, portable version of a 
company file. It contains all vital financial information, templates, and attachments, making it 
perfect for sharing with others for collaboration, review, or backup needs. This blog will guide 
you to create and open a portable file in QB desktop.
Portable file enables the safe and hassle-free transfer of financial data, minimizing the chance 
of mistakes or losing information. The portable file's capability to gather all necessary data into 
one easy-to-carry package is essential for accountants and professionals who rely on 
QuickBooks Desktop for exchanging or safeguarding financial records. Its small size and 
simple transfer process make it a valuable asset for improving financial processes and 
promoting smooth collaboration among stakeholders.
Don't hesitate to reach out to our QuickBooks support team at our Toll-Free Number 
(1.855.856.0042) for guidance on quickly creating the portable company file.

Steps To Take Before Generating A Portable 
Company File
Before delving into the specific steps for creating and opening portable company files in 
QuickBooks, let's first grasp the pre-processing procedures before generating a portable 
company file.
• Begin by ensuring QuickBooks is updated to the latest version to prevent potential issues 
stemming from older versions during the process steps. Keeping software current ensures 
smoother operations.
• Additionally, in order to reduce the likelihood of QuickBooks error 80070057, it is 
recommended that you make a full backup of the data in your company file.
What are the Steps To Create and Start A Portable 
Company File?
Here are the instructions to create and start a portable company file in QuickBooks 
Desktop:
Step 1: Get the Latest QB Update
• Firstly, get the latest QB update from the official site.
Step 2: Contemplate Making A Backup
• Portable company files are compact and ideal for sharing or transferring your company 
data when a complete backup is unnecessary.
Step 3: Generate a Portable Company File
• Launch QuickBooks and log in using administrator credentials.
• Navigate to the ‘File’ menu and choose ‘Create Copy.
• Opt for a ‘Portable company file’ and proceed by clicking ‘Next.
• Assign a distinct name to your portable company file for easy identification.
• Save the portable company file to the desktop or another convenient location.
• Click ‘Save’ followed by ‘OK’ to confirm.
• Your portable company file is prepared and can be shared via email or stored on a USB 
drive. It will appear as [Unique company file name].qbm.
Step 4: Access A Portable Company File
• Launch QuickBooks by clicking on the icon.
• Log in with administrator credentials and access the File menu.
• Choose ‘Open or Restore Company.
• Opt for Restore a portable file and proceed by clicking ‘Next.
• Select your portable company file (might appear as [Unique company file name].qbm).
• Click ‘Open.
• Optionally, rename the portable company file or choose a different saving location.
• Review the notes on the "Where you want to restore the file" window, then click Next.
• Select ‘Save’ and open the file.
• Once the portable company file is opened, QuickBooks will automatically reindex your file 
data.
It is easy to create and open a portable file in QB Desktop and it doesn't require technical 
expertise. If you encounter any difficulties during the process, feel free to reach out to our 
certified QuickBooks Desktop support technicians at our Toll-Free Number 1.855.856.0042 
for assistance.