How to Convert XML to DBF Files? Ultimate Guide

  Mohit Jha
Written By Mohit Jha
Anuraag Singh
Approved By Anuraag Singh  
Published On June 2nd, 2025
Reading Time 5 Minutes Reading

Summary: Have you ever done this XML to DBF conversion. If not, then this guide will take you through the process on how to convert XML to DBF file format and the possible reasons for doing so. But, before we move ahead with the steps, let’s have the basic understanding about both file formats.

XML is a popular way of storing and communicating data from multiple sources. On the other side, DBF (Database File) is an older format which people used to store data based on database management systems such as dBase, FoxPro and Clipper. In case you have information in XML and you want into a system that supports DBF, then you will need to first convert the format. Now, we should quickly move to the cause of doing it.

Table of Contents Hide

XML to DBF Conversion – Why to Convert

There are several points to consider while you start the process to convert XML to DBF in a more clear way. Have a look into all of them.

  • One of the reasons could be your DBF, as this format is still used particularly for inventory, finance related software which depends upon databases.
  • If you are dealing with XML to DBF, then it becomes easy to exchange data from newly advanced web tools to older database-oriented software.
  • These files are lightweight and loadable by old systems more often. So, these are suitable for offline data processing.
  • DBF is a stand-alone database format as it does not depend on a separate server-side process.

Convert XML to DBF Files – Methods Explained

There is no such direct way to convert XML files to DBF format. But, we got some workaround that we can follow to execute this conversion task.

Approach 1. XML to DBF Conversion – Professional Software

Want to search any efficient method to convert XML to DBF files? For this, use SysTools XML Converter which is the easiest way to transfer data. The software provides an easy interface to offer the data mapping process. It also supports batch XML file conversion and keeps data safe while the process completes. The tool provides a vast range of powerful features and compatibility with 3 major conversion options to convert XML to JSON, CSV, and SQL. It can also convert it to other formats like DBF and other formats too. As, it is the perfect choice for users who are looking for daily file conversion.

Quick Steps to Convert XML Files to DBF – Advanced Tool

1. Initially, you need to Download & Run SysTools XML to DBF converter tool.

download xml converter

2. Import XML file by clicking on Add File(s) or Add Folder to import an XML file.

add files or folder

3. Now is when you need to open the file or click the Open button and choose the XML file you want to convert.

open button

4. In the next step, you will see the XML file which you loaded.

xml file

5. Then click the Next button to split.

next button

6. Provide the Destination Path of your XML file.

7. Then, tap the Export button and your files will be converted to DBF format.

export & destination path

8. At the last step, it will then return with a message Export completed successfully in a pop-up. Just hit the OK button.

ok button

9. At last, click on the View Report button and your export report is done.

output report

Approach 2. Using Microsoft Excel ( In-Direct Steps)

For this particular method, we have decided to cut it into three steps to convert XML to DBF. You need to follow in an orderly manner.

Step 1. Open XML File in Excel

  • First, quickly open Microsoft Excel in your system.
  • Next, go to File > Open and choose your XML file.
  • After the second step, you need to choose XML as a Table when following the given instructions.
  • By doing so, you will see your XML data in tabular format.

Step 2. Save it as XLS or CSV Format

After completion of step 1, now follow these below steps to move forward.

  • View to File > Save As.
  • Now, choose CSV or .xlsx as your saving option.
  • After that, just give a desired path location to that file.

Step 3. Convert CSV or XLS to DBF

At this last stage, you need to take help of LibreOffice Calc.

  • Open your Saved File in LibreOffice Calc.
  • Click on File > Save As.
  • Then, select the .dbf (dBase file) as your final format.
  • Just click on Save and your file will be converted to DBF format.

Approach 3. Through XML to DBF Converter – Online Tools 

Go to the google web and search for any online tool to convert XML to DBF files . You will find many of them.

  • Find an XML to CSV converter to convert XML files to csv.
  • Take it from there and save.
  • Then, search for a CSV to DBF tool to complete the file conversion.

Make a Note: Do not share your private information or confidential data to online conversion tools because of privacy concerns.

Conclusion

You may need to convert XML to DBF as there are not many applications which can read XML structure. There isn’t a native conversion tool in Windows, but you can do XML to DBF conversion with a little help from Excel and LibreOffice Calc or using some online tools. Remember, when you are dealing with any file conversion verify the file data & formatting first after the changes are made. To protect your data privacy and have bulk file conversion, go with our professional solution mentioned above. It will quickly convert your XML file and saves your precious time and boost your work level.

  Mohit Jha

By Mohit Jha

With 5+ years of experience, Mohit is a Microsoft Certified expert known for his cloud migration, cyber security, and digital forensics expertise. He specializes in Microsoft 365, Exchange Server, and Azure AD migration, ensuring seamless transitions for organizations worldwide. His multifaceted role as a meticulous tech writer, diligent researcher, and astute editor underscores his commitment to delivering cutting-edge digital forensics and cloud migration strategies.