Migrating to a new version of Odoo—or switching from another ERP system to Odoo—can be a game-changer for your business. With every new release, Odoo introduces valuable improvements in performance, features, and scalability. But as with any ERP migration, the process comes with its complexities. The big question is: should you handle your Odoo migration manually or hire a professional service provider?

In this blog, we break down both approaches—manual Odoo migration vs professional Odoo migration services—to help you make an informed decision for your business.

What Is Odoo Migration?

Odoo migration involves transferring your existing business data, custom modules, and configurations to a newer version of Odoo or from a different ERP system. The goal is to improve performance, gain access to new features, and ensure long-term support.

Migration typically includes:

  • Data Migration: Transferring customer records, product data, sales, invoices, inventory, etc.
  • Module Migration: Updating or rewriting custom modules to be compatible with the new version
  • Configuration: Reapplying business rules, workflows, and access rights in the new system
  • Testing: Ensuring everything works smoothly post-migration



Now let's compare how these tasks differ between manual and professional migration.

Manual Odoo Migration

In a manual migration, your in-house team handles the data export, transformation, and import process. They may also rewrite custom modules, reconfigure workflows, and test everything independently.

Pros of Manual Migration:

  1. Cost Savings (Upfront):

    If you have a skilled internal team, you can save money by avoiding external service fees.
  2. In-House Control:

    You maintain full control over the process and data handling.
  3. Learning Opportunity:

    Your team can learn Odoo's architecture and data structure in detail, which may help with future configurations or minor upgrades.

Cons of Manual Migration:

  1. High Risk of Errors:

    Inadequate testing or mapping issues may result in data loss, duplicate records, or broken workflows.
  2. Time-Consuming:

    Manual migration requires a lot of time—especially if your team is unfamiliar with Odoo's technical nuances.
  3. Lack of Version Compatibility Expertise:

    New Odoo versions often include structural changes in data models and APIs. Handling these without expert knowledge is risky.
  4. Downtime Possibility:

    Without a proper fallback plan, manual migration may lead to significant system downtime.

Professional Odoo Migration

A professional Odoo migration service is handled by certified Odoo experts or implementation partners who specialize in ERP upgrades, data security, and technical migration.

Pros of Professional Migration:

  1. Expertise in Complex Migrations:

    Professionals have experience with large-scale migrations, legacy systems, and complex custom modules. They know how to handle common pitfalls.
  2. Minimal Downtime:

    With well-structured plans and backup procedures, experts can ensure seamless data transfer with minimal impact on daily operations.
  3. Custom Code Upgrades:

    Migration services include updating custom modules to fit the new Odoo version's architecture—saving you major development time.
  4. Thorough Testing and QA:

    Post-migration, every function and module is tested to ensure system integrity and performance.
  5. Faster Implementation:

    What could take weeks or months manually can often be completed in a few days by seasoned professionals.



Cons of Professional Migration:

  1. Higher Initial Cost:

    Hiring professionals can be more expensive upfront compared to a DIY approach.
  2. Dependency on Third Parties:

    You'll be reliant on external support during the migration process and for post-migration troubleshooting.

Final Thoughts

While manual Odoo migration may appeal to businesses trying to cut costs, the risks and long-term inefficiencies can often outweigh the savings. For companies with complex workflows, custom modules, and mission-critical data, professional Odoo migration services offer peace of mind, security, and speed.

If your goal is to ensure a smooth transition without risking downtime, data loss, or business disruption, the professional route is almost always the better choice.

Looking for reliable Odoo migration experts? ERP Consulting Group offers end-to-end Odoo migration services—ensuring seamless upgrades, minimal downtime, and full post-migration support. Let our experts handle the complexity while you focus on growth.