From Excel to BC3: prepare clear input
Identify codes, descriptions, units, quantities and prices where relevant. Specify the chapter each item belongs to. Separate data from decorative headings, merged cells and subtotals. Define how to handle repeated codes, empty cells and decimal separators before generating the file.
- Stable concept codes
- Chapter-to-item relationships
- Units and quantity rules
- Prices and rounding policy
Example: an item with quantities
A painting row with 120 m² at a unit price of 8.50 has a base amount of 1,020. Retaining it in BC3 also requires its code and chapter relationship. If those 120 m² come from several rooms, a total-only column cannot reconstruct the original measurement lines.
From BC3 to Excel: choose a view
A flat sheet may be enough to review quantities and prices per item. To retain breakdowns and measurement details, consider separate sheets linked by codes. Do not sum chapters, items and resources indiscriminately: that can count the same amount twice. Define which level represents the report total.
Understand potential data loss
Hierarchy, extended text and concept relationships may have no equivalent column in your template. An export designed for reading will not necessarily reconstruct the original BC3. Document what is retained, transformed and excluded before accepting the conversion.
One-off conversion or recurring workflow
For a single delivery, use a tool that supports the required structure and review the result. For recurring conversions, a controlled template and validation can reduce manual corrections. Test a small sample and reopen the generated BC3 in the receiving application before automating the workflow.