SharePoint Document Issues

How to Copy Created, Created By, and ID Columns Between SharePoint Lists

Natalie Taylor Oct 20, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to copy or transfer auto-generated system columns, specifically Created, Created By, and ID, from one SharePoint list to another.

How to Copy Created, Created By, and ID Columns Between SharePoint Lists

Product: SharePoint
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Migrating data or duplicating list structures while trying to retain the original creation metadata.
Observed behavior: System columns are automatically generated by SharePoint and restricted from being manually copied, transferred, or directly manipulated like standard user-created columns.

Before you start

Ensure you have the necessary site owner or administrator permissions to run PowerShell scripts or manage SharePoint list settings before attempting to duplicate system fields.

Solution 1Recommended

Export and Import the SharePoint List

The most straightforward method to preserve list structure is to export the original list as a template and use it to create the destination list.

While you cannot directly copy individual system columns into an existing list, you can duplicate the entire list structure by saving it as a template. This ensures all field structures are carried over.

Navigate to List Settings

Open your source SharePoint list, click the gear icon in the top right corner, and select 'List settings'.

Save List as Template

Under the Permissions and Management section, click 'Save list as template'. Enter a file name and template name. Check 'Include Content' if you wish to bring the existing data over.

Create New List

Go to Site Contents, click 'New', then select 'App'. Find your newly created template and click it to generate the new list with the copied structure.

Solution 2

Use PowerShell to Recreate System Columns

Run a PowerShell script to manually append fields with identical names to your new list.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Manage Your Documents Effectively with WPS Office

While managing complex SharePoint lists often requires administrative tools or scripts, your daily document management shouldn't be a hassle. Try WPS Office, a powerful, free, and lightweight suite perfectly compatible with Microsoft Office files.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the installer for your operating system.
2. Install the Suite: Run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
3. Start Creating: Open WPS Office to instantly view, edit, and collaborate on your documents with full Microsoft format compatibility.

Free and lightweight alternative to Microsoft OfficeSeamlessly compatible with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formatsBuilt-in cloud integration for easy document collaborationUser-friendly interface with no steep learning curve

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I normally copy the 'Created By' column in SharePoint?

The 'Created By' column is a built-in system field that SharePoint manages automatically to track item origins. To maintain security and system integrity, SharePoint prevents manual duplication or modification of these system fields like it allows for standard user-created columns.

Will exporting the list template keep the original 'Created' dates?

If you check the 'Include Content' option when saving a list as a template, the existing items and their metadata are generally preserved in the new list. However, specific system column behaviors might vary depending on your SharePoint version and migration method.

Can I map old system IDs to a new SharePoint list?

Yes, but you cannot write data directly to the new list's built-in ID column. You must create a custom column (for example, 'Old_ID') and map the original ID data to this new column using a SharePoint migration tool or PowerShell script.

Document & File Issues