> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://withforerunner.com/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Exporting objects

> Export property and custom object data in CSV, Shapefile, and other formats

Export object data from Forerunner for reporting, analysis, or integration with other systems. You can export properties and custom objects in multiple formats, with the ability to filter and select specific data before export.

## Export formats

| Format          | Best for                                  | Includes geometry |
| --------------- | ----------------------------------------- | ----------------- |
| **CSV**         | Spreadsheets, mail merge, simple analysis | No                |
| **Shapefile**   | GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS)               | Yes               |
| **GeoPackage**  | Modern GIS with full attribute support    | Yes               |
| **Geodatabase** | Esri ArcGIS workflows                     | Yes               |

<Tip>
  Use CSV for non-spatial analysis and reporting. Use Shapefile, GeoPackage, or Geodatabase when you need to work with the data in GIS software or preserve location information.
</Tip>

## Exporting from tables

Export objects directly from any object table view.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Navigate to the table">
    Go to the Properties table or a custom object group table.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Filter your data (optional)">
    Apply filters to narrow down to the objects you want to export. Only filtered results will be included in the export.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Click Export">
    Select the export button in the table toolbar.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose your format">
    Select CSV, Shapefile, GeoPackage, or Geodatabase.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Download the file">
    The export generates and downloads to your computer.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Note>
  Exports include only the objects currently displayed after filtering. To export all objects, clear all filters before exporting.
</Note>

## What's included in exports

### Attribute data

Exports include the attribute columns visible in your current table view:

* Standard object attributes (address, parcel ID, flood zone, etc.)
* Custom attributes configured for the object type
* Columns you've added to your view

To include additional attributes, add them as columns to your table view before exporting.

### Geometry data

Spatial formats (Shapefile, GeoPackage, Geodatabase) include:

* **Properties** - Point locations and parcel boundaries (if available)
* **Custom objects** - Points, lines, or polygons depending on the object type

CSV exports do not include geometry, but may include latitude/longitude coordinates as attribute columns.

### Related data

Standard exports include object attributes only. To export related data:

* **Records** - Export from [record tables](/records/exporting-records) instead
* **Files** - Download individually from object detail pages
* **Activity history** - Contact your CSM for custom reporting needs

## Common export scenarios

### Reporting and analysis

Export to CSV for:

* Creating reports in Excel or Google Sheets
* Mail merge for property owner notifications
* Data analysis and pivot tables
* Importing into other software systems

### GIS workflows

Export to Shapefile, GeoPackage, or Geodatabase for:

* Analysis in ArcGIS or QGIS
* Creating custom maps
* Combining with other spatial data
* Sharing with partner agencies

### Data backup

Periodic exports can serve as backups of your object data. Consider:

* Exporting all properties quarterly
* Exporting custom objects after major updates
* Storing exports in a secure location

## Exporting specific subsets

### Using filters

Apply table filters before exporting to create targeted exports:

* **By flood zone** - Export only properties in AE zones
* **By status** - Export objects with specific conditions
* **By attribute** - Filter on any available attribute
* **By related data** - Export objects with or without attached records

### Using saved views

Create [saved views](/tables/creating-views) for exports you run regularly:

1. Set up filters for the data you need
2. Configure columns to include desired attributes
3. Save the view with a descriptive name
4. Return to this view whenever you need to export

## Large exports

For very large datasets:

* Exports may take longer to generate
* Consider filtering to reduce the dataset size
* Your browser will download the file when ready
* Contact your CSM if you encounter timeout issues

## Frequently asked questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Can I export all objects at once?">
    Yes, clear all filters in your table view before exporting to include all objects. For very large datasets, you may need to export in batches or contact your CSM.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Why are some columns missing from my export?">
    Exports include columns visible in your current table view. Add additional columns to your view before exporting to include them.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I export records attached to objects?">
    Object exports include object attributes only. To export records, use the [record export](/records/exporting-records) feature from record tables.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What coordinate system do spatial exports use?">
    Spatial exports use WGS 84 (EPSG:4326) by default. Contact your CSM if you need exports in a different coordinate system.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I schedule automatic exports?">
    Automatic scheduled exports are not currently available through the interface. Contact your CSM to discuss options for recurring data exports or API access.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Is there a limit on export size?">
    Export limits depend on your account configuration. If you encounter issues exporting large datasets, try filtering to reduce the size or contact your CSM for assistance.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Related

* [Exporting table data](/tables/exporting-table-data) - General table export guidance
* [Exporting records](/records/exporting-records) - Export record data
* [Syncing to ArcGIS](/tables/syncing-to-arcgis) - Automated sync to ArcGIS Online