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Fix SharePoint List Created from Existing List Not Copying Items

Bushra Parveen Oct 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to duplicate a SharePoint list including its existing items, but finds that only the list structure and columns are copied.

How to Fix SharePoint List Created from Existing List Not Copying Items

Product: Microsoft SharePoint
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to create a new SharePoint list based on an existing one to fully duplicate the data and structure.
Observed behavior: The new list successfully copies views, formatting, and column structures, but the original list items are not copied over. Additionally, importing data via Excel fails to support complex column types like Person or Group.

Before you start

Ensure you have Site Owner or Edit permissions for the SharePoint site and that your source data is saved in a properly formatted Excel table before attempting to import.

Solution 1Recommended

Export Original List to Excel and Import to a New SharePoint List

Since SharePoint natively copies only the structure, exporting the original list to Excel and using it to generate the new list is the most reliable workaround for migrating your items.

This method involves downloading your current list data and uploading it as a new list. Be aware that complex column types (like Person, Location, or Hyperlink) will import as plain text and need manual adjustment.

Export the existing list

Navigate to your original SharePoint list, click 'Export' in the top command bar, and select 'Export to Excel'. Save the downloaded file to your local drive.

Prepare the Excel file

Open the downloaded Excel file to verify the data is formatted as a Table. Clean up any unnecessary columns and save the file.

Create a new list from Excel

Go to your SharePoint site homepage, click 'New', select 'List', and then choose the 'From Excel' option.

Upload and map data

Upload your saved Excel file. SharePoint will prompt you to check the column types; adjust the mappings for supported columns (like Single line of text, Number, Date) and click 'Next'.

Finalize list creation

Name your new list, provide a description if needed, and click 'Create'. Your list will now contain the original items.

Export Original List to Excel and Import to a New SharePoint List

Column Limitations: Complex fields such as Person or Group, Location, and Hyperlink cannot be directly mapped during an Excel import. You will need to recreate these specific column types in the new list and update the entries manually.

Solution 2

Use Power Automate to Copy Items to a Duplicated Structure

If you want to maintain complex column structures like Person or Group without manual re-entry, a Power Automate flow can transfer items between lists automatically.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Manage Your Exported List Data Seamlessly with WPS Office

When preparing data to import into SharePoint, you need a reliable spreadsheet tool. If you are experiencing limitations with Microsoft Office or need a lightweight editing solution, WPS Office is an excellent free alternative for cleaning, formatting, and managing your Excel exports.

1. Install WPS Office: Download and install the free WPS Office suite on your device.
2. Open exported SharePoint data: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and open the .xlsx or .csv file you exported from your SharePoint list.
3. Format as a table: Clean up unsupported data types and ensure your data range is formatted as a standard Table, making it ready for a successful SharePoint upload.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel formats (.xlsx, .csv) for easy SharePoint integrationLightweight and fast installation for quick data editing and cleanupFamiliar user interface requiring zero learning curveFree to use for everyday spreadsheet management and table formatting

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does 'From existing list' not copy my SharePoint data?

SharePoint's 'From existing list' feature is designed specifically as a templating tool. It intentionally copies only the list architecture—such as columns, views, and formatting—so you can start a fresh tracking process without manually rebuilding the structure.

Why are some column types missing when I import from Excel to SharePoint?

SharePoint only allows mapping for basic data types like Single line of text, Number, and Date when importing from Excel. Complex fields such as Person or Group, Location, and Hyperlink cannot be interpreted directly from a flat spreadsheet and must be reconfigured after import.

Why is the 'From Excel' option unavailable in my SharePoint environment?

If you are operating within highly secure environments such as GCC High or DoD, Microsoft disables the 'From Excel' import feature by default for strict security and compliance reasons. You will need to use Power Automate or direct data exports instead.

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