Import & Migration

Migrate your data to SerenDB from various sources including other PostgreSQL databases, cloud providers, and different database systems.

Migration Overview

SerenDB provides multiple pathways to migrate your data, whether you're moving from another PostgreSQL provider, a different database system, or importing data from files.

Migration Methods

Quick Import Tools

Import Data Assistant

An interactive tool that guides you through the data import process with automatic optimization and validation.

CSV Import

Import data directly from CSV files into your SerenDB tables.

Sample Data

Load sample datasets for testing and development purposes.

PostgreSQL Utilities

pg_dump & pg_restore

The standard PostgreSQL tools for database backup and restore. Perfect for one-time migrations of any size.

pgcopydb

A fast and efficient tool for copying entire PostgreSQL databases, including schema and data.

Migration Sources

Cloud Providers

  • AWS RDS: Migrate from Amazon RDS for PostgreSQL

  • Azure Database: Move from Azure Database for PostgreSQL

  • Google Cloud SQL: Transfer from Cloud SQL

  • AlloyDB: Migrate from Google's AlloyDB

Database Platforms

  • Supabase: Migrate projects from Supabase

  • Heroku Postgres: Move from Heroku's PostgreSQL

  • Render: Transfer from Render databases

  • Digital Ocean: Migrate from Digital Ocean databases

Other Databases

  • MySQL: Convert and migrate from MySQL databases

  • Microsoft SQL Server: Migrate from MSSQL

  • SQLite: Import SQLite databases

  • Firebase: Move from Firebase Firestore

Migration Services

  • AWS DMS: Use AWS Database Migration Service for continuous replication

Logical Replication

For minimal downtime migrations or ongoing synchronization, SerenDB supports logical replication from:

  • PostgreSQL (any version 10+)

  • AWS RDS for PostgreSQL

  • Azure Database for PostgreSQL

  • Google Cloud SQL

  • AlloyDB

  • Supabase

  • Other SerenDB projects

See the Guides section for detailed logical replication tutorials.

Migration Strategies

Full Database Migration

Copy your entire database including schema, data, indexes, and constraints.

Schema-Only Migration

Migrate just your database schema for testing or development purposes.

Incremental Migration

Use logical replication to sync data continuously while you transition.

Self-Migration

Move between SerenDB projects for reorganization or testing purposes.

Planning Your Migration

  1. Assess your source: Understand your current database size, structure, and dependencies

  2. Choose a method: Select the appropriate migration tool based on your needs

  3. Test the migration: Always test with a subset of data first

  4. Plan for downtime: Estimate and minimize application downtime

  5. Verify data integrity: Confirm all data migrated correctly

  6. Update connection strings: Point your applications to the new database

Best Practices

  • Test thoroughly: Use SerenDB branches to test migrations

  • Check compatibility: Review PostgreSQL version compatibility

  • Optimize before migrating: Clean up unused data and optimize schemas

  • Monitor performance: Use SerenDB's monitoring tools during migration

  • Have a rollback plan: Keep your source database available until migration is confirmed

Getting Help

For complex migrations or assistance with your specific use case, consult the detailed guides or contact SerenDB support.

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