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

# Export and download a BigCommerce backup

> Export your backed-up BigCommerce data and download it as a ZIP archive to your computer or external storage.

BackupMaster stores your data in secure backup storage — that's your primary backup. Exporting creates an additional copy on your local drive, giving you an extra layer of protection following the **3-2-1 backup rule** (three copies of your data, on two different storage types, with one stored offsite). This is also useful if you plan to pause or close your store temporarily.

<Note>
  To transfer data between stores, use the [clone feature](/bigcommerce/cloning/clone-store-data-to-another-store) instead — no need to download and re-import files.
</Note>

## Export and download your backup

<Info>
  **Prerequisites**

  * A **Pro plan** or higher
  * At least one completed backup
</Info>

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open BackupMaster and click Export">
    Open the BackupMaster app in your BigCommerce admin and click **Export** on the dashboard.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select Export Now">
    Select **Export Now**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose what to export and start">
    Select the data types to include, choose **Send download link via email**, and click **Start Export**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Monitor progress">
    Monitor the progress on your dashboard. You don't need to keep the app open — BackupMaster processes the export in the background and notifies you when it finishes.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Download from email">
    Check your email for the download link and save the ZIP file to your computer or external storage. The link expires after **seven days**.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## What the export file contains

Exports are delivered as ZIP archives in BackupMaster's internal format containing the data types you selected. For large exports, the archive is split into multiple volumes of approximately **500 MB** each. All volumes are delivered in the same email.

## Troubleshooting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="No email received">
    Check your spam or junk folder. Verify that the email address on your account is correct.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Download link expired">
    Start a new export if the seven-day window has passed.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Export stuck">
    Refresh the dashboard. If the issue continues, contact support at [support@backupmaster.io](mailto:support@backupmaster.io).
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Need help?

If you have questions or need assistance, the support team is here to help. Reach out at [support@backupmaster.io](mailto:support@backupmaster.io).