Migrating your CRM is one of the most impactful decisions a business can make. Whether you're migrating from Salesforce to HubSpot, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step from planning and execution to post-migration optimization.
By the end of this guide, you'll understand:
Why companies switch CRMs (and when it makes sense for you).
How to plan and execute a seamless migration.
Best practices for data integrity, user adoption, and workflow optimization.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
Let’s dive in.
Salesforce’s steep learning curve often leads to low user adoption. HubSpot’s intuitive UI reduces training time and improves team productivity.
Before using any CRM migration tool, assess:
✔ Objects to Migrate (Contacts, Accounts, Deals, Custom Objects)
✔ Custom Fields & Workflows (Will they map to HubSpot?)
✔ Data Quality (Remove duplicates, outdated records)
Pro Tip: Use Salesforce’s Data Loader to export .CSV files for analysis.
Before going live:
✔ Verify record counts (Did all 50,000 Contacts transfer?)
✔ Check automation rules (Do Deal stages update correctly?)
✔ Test integrations (Do Zoom/Email syncs work?)
Steps to Migrate Data from Salesforce to HubSpot Using HubSpot’s Native Integration
1. Train Your Team for Adoption As you're rebuilding automation in HubSpot, consider incorporating insights from this SaaS workflow automation guide to optimize processes.
2. Rebuild Key Workflows
3. Monitor & Optimize Track these KPIs post-migration:
A Salesforce to HubSpot migration can reduce costs, improve usability, and unify teams but only if executed well. Follow this guide to ensure a smooth transition. Need Help? Book a Free Migration Consultation
Q: Can I migrate custom Salesforce objects to HubSpot?
A: Yes, you can migrate custom Salesforce objects to HubSpot, but the process isn’t always straightforward. HubSpot doesn’t natively support custom objects from Salesforce, so you’ll likely need custom API development or a third-party integration tool like HubSpot’s Operations Hub, Zapier, or a middleware platform. It’s important to carefully plan and map custom fields to avoid data loss or compatibility issues. Testing the migration with sample data is also recommended. Or you can follow our CRM Migration guide : https://wesimplifi.co.uk/crm-migration-a-step-by-step-guide/ .
Q: How much does a HubSpot migration cost?
A: The HubSpot Pricing varies based on your company size, data complexity, and the method used. For small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs), a DIY migration using tools may cost between $3,000 and $10,000. However, for fully managed services that handle planning, execution, and testing, costs often start at $15,000 and can go significantly higher depending on your specific needs and customizations.
Q: Should I sync HubSpot & Salesforce after migrating?
A: Syncing HubSpot and Salesforce after migration can be helpful, but it should be done with caution. A temporary sync can help ensure that data stays consistent while teams adjust to HubSpot. However, keeping both systems fully synced long-term may lead to data duplication, clutter, or confusion if not carefully managed. It’s best to define a clear purpose for syncing and establish rules for data ownership, updates, and conflict resolution.
Q: Can HubSpot integrate with Salesforce?
A: Yes, HubSpot can integrate with Salesforce through native integrations, allowing for seamless data synchronization between the two platforms. This integration helps you sync contacts, deals, and other important information in real time. Additionally, third-party tools like Zapier or PieSync can be used for more complex use cases. Proper setup is essential for maintaining data consistency across both systems.
Q: How long does a HubSpot migration take?
A: The duration of a HubSpot migration can range from 2 to 8 weeks, depending on factors like the volume of data, level of customization, and the complexity of your workflows. A DIY migration will likely take longer as you need to handle all aspects yourself. For a more seamless experience, using managed services or consultants can shorten the timeline and ensure accuracy during the process.
Q: Can I transfer workflows from Salesforce to HubSpot?
A: Unfortunately, workflows cannot be directly transferred from Salesforce to HubSpot due to differences in how automation is structured between the two platforms. You will need to manually recreate your workflows in HubSpot. However, this is an opportunity to optimize your processes and tailor your automation for HubSpot’s features, ensuring they align with your business goals.
Q: Will my custom fields transfer to HubSpot?
A: Custom fields from Salesforce can be mapped and transferred to HubSpot, but some field types may need to be adjusted after migration. For example, picklist fields in Salesforce might require manual configuration in HubSpot. It’s important to thoroughly test the fields after the migration to ensure everything is aligned with your existing workflows and data requirements.
Q: Can I migrate emails and templates from Salesforce to HubSpot?
A: Email templates from Salesforce cannot be directly migrated to HubSpot, as the two platforms use different email builders and formats. However, you can recreate your email templates in HubSpot’s email tool. Any Salesforce-specific email features, like dynamic content, may require custom work or rethinking to match HubSpot’s capabilities, but the process is manageable.
Q: Is it possible to migrate historical data to HubSpot?
A: Yes, historical data such as contacts, deals, notes, and tickets can be migrated to HubSpot. However, due to the differences in how data is stored in each platform, you may need custom scripts or third-party tools for a smooth migration. It’s important to map your fields properly to avoid losing critical information. Test migrations on small datasets first to ensure everything imports correctly.
Q: Do I need a developer for HubSpot migration?
A: While a developer is not strictly necessary for simpler migrations, it’s highly recommended for more complex scenarios involving custom fields, data mapping, or integrations. A developer can ensure the migration goes smoothly, avoid potential issues, and help automate the process where needed. For businesses with large amounts of data or customized workflows, working with a developer or consultant can save significant time and effort.
Q: Can HubSpot manage both B2B and B2C businesses?
A: Yes, HubSpot is versatile and can effectively support both B2B (business-to-business) and B2C (business-to-consumer) models. For B2B, HubSpot offers robust tools like deal pipelines, account-based marketing, and lead scoring. For B2C, it provides features like personalization, email marketing, and customer journey tracking. The platform’s flexibility allows you to tailor it for specific needs depending on your business model.