Magento 1 to Magento 2 Data Migration Checklist for Developers
Worried about losing data while upgrading your store? Magento 1 to Magento 2 data migration moves data to a faster, reliable and more secure version. It uses a structured process that ensures a clean transfer. You must plan, test, and confirm at every step.
This article provides a checklist and tips for migrating e-store data from Magento 1 to Magento 2.
Key Takeaways
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Magento 2 data migration needs a structured plan with official Data Migration Tool.
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It runs through Settings, Data, and Delta Modes to ensure accurate data transfer.
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Custom themes, code, and extensions need separate handling to match Magento 2 standards.
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Map files and integrity checks help confirm data compatibility and prevent transfer issues.
What is Magento 1 to Magento 2 Data Migration?
Magento 1 to Magento 2 migration transfers store data to the latest version of Magento.
Magento provides a Data Migration Tool that developers use through the command line. The tool checks for database compatibility before transferring any data. It confirms that tables and fields align between the two versions.
The migration follows a clear structure with three modes—Settings, Data, and Delta. Each mode handles a specific type of data. Modes contain steps that define what kind of data to move. Steps include three stages:
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Integrity Check
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Data Transfer
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Volume Check
This structure helps developers control each phase of the process. Map files guide the transfer of Magento 1 database structures into Magento 2 formats. These XML files define which tables and fields change and how they connect. If a map file doesn’t cover a change, the tool blocks the migration. Developers must also handle custom code, themes, and third-party extensions outside the tool. Planning and testing ensure a clean and complete migration.
Magento 1 to Magento 2 Data Migration Preparation Checklist
| Checklist Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Backup Magento 1 Store | Create a full backup of your Magento 1 files and database. Store the backup in a secure location. Verify its integrity before moving ahead. |
| Set Up Magento 2 Environment | Install Magento 2 on a separate staging server. Match its configuration with your current production setup. Avoid making changes on the live store. |
| Check Magento 1 Version Compatibility | Confirm your Magento 1 version works with the Data Migration Tool. Use the official compatibility list to check this. Upgrade Magento 1 if needed. |
| Install Data Migration Tool | Download and configure the Data Migration Tool inside your Magento 2 project folder. Follow the official installation guide. Set the right permissions. |
| Review Custom Modules and Extensions | List all custom code and third-party extensions in Magento 1. Check if Magento 2 versions exist. Plan custom development if necessary. |
| Plan Theme and Design Migration | Magento 2 uses a new theme architecture. Rebuild your theme using the Luma or Blank base. Focus on functionality before final styling. |
| Clean Up Magento 1 Database | Remove outdated or test data from the Magento 1 database. Optimize tables after cleanup. Keep only clean, relevant data for migration. |
| Identify Critical Business Data | Note essential data like products, customers, orders, and configurations. Group them by priority. Secure this data during transfer. |
| Review Server and PHP Requirements | Magento 2 demands a modern tech stack. Check your server for supported PHP, MySQL, and other dependencies. Upgrade the environment if required. |
| Prepare a Rollback Plan | Write down clear rollback steps in case issues arise. Keep backups ready and tested. Assign team members to each task. |
| Create a Migration Timeline | Set clear deadlines for each migration phase. Include prep, transfer, and testing in the schedule. Share the plan with your team. |
| Test on Staging Before Live Migration | Run the full migration process on the staging server. Confirm the transferred data and features. Resolve all errors before going live. |
Steps and Stages of Magento 1 to Magento 2 Data Migration
1. Understand the Migration Modes
Magento has three modes: Settings, Data, and Delta.
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Settings Mode moves core configs and site structure.
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Data Mode transfers products, customers, and orders.
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Delta Mode syncs new updates after the main transfer.
Run them in order to ensure data accuracy.
2. Start with Settings Mode
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Begin with Settings Mode.
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It transfers stores, currencies, and setup data.
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Both Magento versions must have compatible configs.
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Skipping this may cause errors in later stages.
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This step builds the base for a smooth migration.
3. Migrate Bulk Data in Data Mode
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Next, run Data Mode.
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It moves the main data in bulk.
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Products, categories, customers, and orders are included.
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Magento uses map files to match tables.
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Clean old or unused data before this step.
4. Sync New Data Using Delta Mode
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Delta Mode runs after the bulk data migration.
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It syncs any changes made after Data Mode.
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This includes new orders, sign-ups, or product updates.
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Run it before the final cutover to Magento 2.
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It keeps your new store updated and complete.
How to Confirm Data with Map Files and Integrity Checks?
1. Understand the Role of Map Files
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Map files define how Magento 1 tables and fields match Magento 2 structures.
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These XML files contain rules for renaming and formatting data.
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The Data Migration Tool reads map files to apply proper transformations.
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Missing or incorrect map entries cause errors and stop migration.
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Update map files to reflect custom modules or database changes.
2. Perform Integrity Checks Before Migration
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Run the Integrity Check to compare table structures across Magento versions.
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The tool verifies field names, data types, and indexes for compatibility.
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It detects any mismatch or missing elements in the database schema.
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Use the report to pinpoint and resolve structure conflicts before transfer.
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Fix all issues to prevent migration failures.
3. Customize Map Files for Extensions and Custom Tables
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Identify all custom and third-party modules in Magento 1.
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Add corresponding rules in the map files to migrate the correct data.
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Ensure no loss of extension data by mapping every custom table and field.
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Test these changes on a staging server before applying in production.
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Keep backup copies of original map files for safety.
4. Confirm Data Transfer During Migration
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Track migration logs for the results of integrity checks and any errors.
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Resolve any issues related to map files or schema conflicts.
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Confirm the tool transfers data for all mapped tables.
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Check if any records failed during the process by reviewing logs.
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Repeat integrity checks after applying fixes to confirm accuracy.
5. Use Volume Checks for Final Validation
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After transfer, run Volume Checks to compare record counts in Magento 1 and 2.
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Verify that critical tables such as customers, products, and orders match.
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Investigate any mismatch to find missing or extra data.
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Fix inconsistencies before moving to the next migration phase.
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Confirm volume equality to ensure complete data migration.
Tips to Handle Custom Code Themes and Extensions Migration
| Aspect | Tips for Migration |
|---|---|
| Custom Code Review | Analyze all custom code for compatibility with Magento 2. Identify outdated functions and rewrite where needed. Ensure your code follows Magento 2 standards for performance and security. |
| Extension Compatibility | List all installed Magento 1 extensions. Verify if Magento 2 versions exist in the Marketplace. Plan to replace or redevelop extensions that lack support for Magento 2. |
| Theme Migration Planning | Magento 2 uses a new theme architecture. Rebuild your theme using Magento 2 layout and template structure. Focus on UX and responsive design improvements during redevelopment. |
| Testing Customizations | Test custom code, themes, and extensions on a staging environment. Use Magento 2 testing tools to confirm functionality and performance. Fix all issues before deployment. |
| Version Control Use | Keep all custom code and theme changes in a version control system. Track migration progress and manage updates. This practice reduces risks during the migration process. |
| Documentation Updates | Document all changes made during migration. Provide clear instructions for future maintenance and updates to ensure seamless operation. Proper documentation supports team collaboration and troubleshooting. |
| Backup Before Changes | Back up your custom code, themes, and extensions before starting the migration. Secure copies enable a quick rollback in the event of migration issues. |
Post Magento 2 Data Migration Testing and Troubleshooting
1. Check All Critical Data After Migration
You need to verify all essential data, like customers, orders, and products. Compare record counts between Magento 1 and Magento 2 databases. Ensure no data is missing or duplicated during the transfer. Review configuration settings to confirm they match the original site. Resolve any inconsistencies to maintain data integrity.
2. Test Frontend and Backend Functionality
Check the Magento 2 store’s frontend to ensure correct page loads. Confirm product browsing, search functions, and checkout processes to ensure a seamless UX. Examine backend features, including order management and customer handling. Confirm custom modules and extensions work without issues. Address any functional problems to ensure a smooth user experience.
3. Track Performance and Load Times
Measure page load speed and site performance on Magento 2. Use testing tools to assess server response and rendering times. Compare these metrics with Magento 1 to identify any differences. Identify bottlenecks caused by heavy data or custom code. Optimize performance to improve user satisfaction and SEO rankings.
4. Review Migration Errors and Logs
Review migration logs generated by the Data Migration Tool. Identify error messages related to failed data transfers. Correct map file issues or database mismatches based on log information. Re-run migration steps for affected data sets after fixes. Document problems and solutions to support future migrations.
5. Conduct User Acceptance Testing
Involve key team members and end-users in testing the Magento 2 site. Gather feedback on usability, features, and experience. Confirm the migrated site meets business needs and expectations. Address defects and concerns raised during testing. Get final approval before the site goes live.
FAQs
1. How to migrate from Magento 1 to Magento 2 without losing key Magento data?
Use the Magento Data Migration Tool to move key data from Magento 1 to Magento 2. Follow the right order Settings, Data, and Delta Modes for accuracy. Back up your Magento 1.x store before migration. Clean the database to skip unneeded data. Confirm all records with map files and volume checks.
2. What system requirements fit Magento 2 migration?
You need to check that your server supports the needed versions of PHP, MySQL, etc. Magento 2 requires a modern tech stack compared to Magento 1. Verify compatibility with Elasticsearch, Composer, and other core tools. Update your environment before starting the Magento 2 migration process. Confirm all configurations match the staging setup.
3. How to migrate Magento 1 custom extensions and themes to Magento 2?
Analyze all custom code for Magento 2 standards compatibility. Rebuild themes with the Luma or Blank base to fit Magento 2’s structure. Replace or rework unsupported extensions after checking the Magento Marketplace. Test all customizations on a staging server. Fix errors and confirm function before the final migration.
4. What role do authentication keys play during Magento 2 migration?
Use authentication keys for Magento 2 and access packages from the Magento Marketplace. Link these keys to your Magento account to approve downloads via Composer. Set them up right in your Magento 2 environment. Missing or wrong keys block required packages. Keep them safe during migration.
5. Why does a staging server matter when migrating Magento?
Set up a staging server to test the full migration without touching the live store. Use it to run the Magento 2 migration process from start to end. Catch issues like missing data, layout errors, or broken features before going live. Fix all problems on staging first. This method keeps the Magento 2 ecommerce launch stable.
Summary
Magento 1 to Magento 2 data migration transfers e-store data to the latest Magento 2 version. Key benefits are:
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Structured Process: Guides you through Settings, Data, and Delta Modes for step-by-step control.
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Data Accuracy: Helps confirm and match data using map files and integrity checks.
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Custom Code Handling: Explains how to migrate themes, extensions, and custom modules.
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Testing and Validation: Encourages staging, rollback planning, and UAT to prevent surprises.
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Performance Optimization: Shows how to fine-tune your store post-migration for better results.
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