Need Your Data in DBF Format?
You have data in a CSV file, but the system you need to import it into only accepts DBF files. Maybe it's an older database application, GIS software like ArcGIS or QGIS, or a legacy FoxPro system that's been running for decades.
Converting CSV files to DBF solves this compatibility problem instantly. DBF (dBASE Database File) is the format these systems expect, and our converter creates properly structured DBF files that import without errors.
How to Convert CSV to DBF
- Upload your CSV file - Drag and drop or click to select your spreadsheet data
- Confirm DBF output - The converter automatically detects your data structure
- Download your DBF file - Ready to import into dBASE, FoxPro, or GIS software
The entire process takes seconds. No software to install, no account required.
Why Convert CSV to DBF?
CSV is excellent for data interchange between modern applications. But certain specialized software and legacy systems require DBF format specifically:
- GIS Applications - ArcGIS, QGIS, and MapInfo use DBF for attribute tables in shapefiles
- Legacy Databases - dBASE, FoxPro, and Visual FoxPro applications expect DBF input
- Government Systems - Many public sector databases still rely on DBF format
- Industrial Software - Manufacturing and logistics systems often use legacy DBF-based tools
In our testing, DBF files created from well-structured CSV data import smoothly into these systems with proper field recognition.
CSV vs DBF: Technical Differences
Understanding the differences helps you prepare your data for conversion:
| Feature | CSV | DBF |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Plain text | Binary with header |
| Field Types | All text | Character, Numeric, Date, Logical |
| Field Names | Any length | Max 10 characters (dBASE III) |
| Structure | Flexible | Fixed field lengths |
| Compatibility | Universal | Legacy systems, GIS |
Our converter handles the translation between these formats, assigning appropriate field types based on your data content.
Common Use Cases
GIS Shapefile Attributes
Shapefiles use DBF to store attribute data for geographic features. If you have location data in a spreadsheet that needs to join with map features, converting your CSV to DBF is the first step.
Legacy System Data Import
Many organizations still run mission-critical applications built on FoxPro or dBASE. When you need to import fresh data from Excel or modern systems, CSV to DBF conversion bridges the gap.
Data Migration Projects
Moving data between old and new systems often requires intermediate formats. DBF serves as a reliable interchange format that legacy applications understand.
Preparing Your CSV for Conversion
For best results when converting to DBF:
- Use short, descriptive column headers (10 characters or less for maximum compatibility)
- Avoid special characters in headers - stick to letters, numbers, and underscores
- Ensure numeric columns contain only numbers
- Use consistent date formats throughout your data
The converter handles most CSV variations, but clean data produces the most reliable DBF output.
Works in Any Browser
Convert CSV to DBF directly in your web browser:
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook
- Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
- No plugins or downloads required
Your data stays on your device during conversion - nothing is uploaded to external servers.