To occasionally migrate data from one instance to another, you can export XML data from one instance and import it to another.

This method ensures that all fields and values are transferred exactly. Migrating data in an XML file saves time for unscheduled data imports because there is no need to build an import set or a transform map.

Exporting and importing data in XML files is commonly used for records created in a development instance that must be migrated with the update sets as part of a migration procedure. Examples of these records include lookup tables, unit test records, and other information required to support production. Typically, this information is only migrated once and the overhead of an import set is not justified.
Note: Image field data is not preserved when exporting to XML.