Transferring Data with bcp

To copy data from one SQL Server to another, you must copy the data from one SQL Server to a file and then copy the data from the file to the other SQL Server.

The topics that follow provide examples of copying data from SQL Server to a file, copying data from a file to SQL Server, and using a format file to selectively copy data. For more information, choose one of the following topics:

Copying Data from SQL Server to a File

Copying Data from a File to SQL Server

Using a Format File to Selectively Copy Data

After you have copied data into a table, it is a good idea to back up the database. Then as necessary you can re-create any indexes on that table, reset any database options, check for rule violations, and make sure the Select Into/Bulk Copy option is set to false.