Zendesk to GoHighLevel Migration

Here’s how to migrate from Zendesk to GHL without losing critical data or disrupting your workflows.

1. Plan Your Migration Strategy

Start by mapping out what needs to be moved and who will be involved. Decide:

• What Zendesk data is essential (tickets, users, tags, etc.)

• Which teams use Zendesk features that need replacement in GHL

• Whether you’ll use manual export/import, third-party tools, or hire help

At VA Matters, we recommend setting a cut-off date for your Zendesk usage so your team can smoothly transition to GHL.

2. Export Data from Zendesk

Zendesk offers multiple ways to export your data:

• Using Zendesk’s native export tool (under Admin > Reports > Export)

• Ticket export via API for more detailed control

• Third-party migration tools (like Help Desk Migration)

Make sure to export:

• Tickets (with conversations, tags, attachments)

• Contacts and organizations

• Agent profiles

• Macros and triggers (for reference when setting up in GHL)

Tip: Back up your data in multiple formats like CSV and JSON for flexibility during import.

3. Prepare GoHighLevel for Import

Once your data is exported, it’s time to get GHL ready:

• Create your custom fields to match Zendesk data structures

• Set up pipelines for support and sales workflows

• Configure user roles and permissions for your agents

• Install relevant GHL integrations if needed (e.g., phone, email, chat)

This step is crucial to avoid friction later when you import and organize your data.

4. Import Contacts and Tickets to GoHighLevel

You can import your exported data into GHL using:

• The GHL Contact Importer (supports CSV files)

• Manual creation of records for smaller data sets

• Zapier or Make (Integromat) to automate record creation

• Custom API solutions if you need a developer-led approach

Note: GHL doesn’t natively support importing support tickets like a helpdesk tool. You may need to recreate ticket history as notes or tasks under contacts, or use tagging and pipelines to reflect open/closed ticket statuses.

At VA Matters, we create custom workflows to mirror Zendesk ticket structure using GHL’s automation builder.

5. Rebuild Automations and Workflows

Zendesk uses Triggers and Macros; GoHighLevel uses Workflows. You’ll need to:

• Identify all your Zendesk automations

• Recreate them in GHL’s Workflow Builder

• Test everything using dummy data

Examples include:

• New support request alerts

• Auto-response to customers

• Ticket follow-up reminders

• Lead routing based on tags or custom fields

Migrating automation is where most teams struggle VA Matters offers done-for-you automation migration if you want help here.

6. Test Everything Thoroughly

Before you fully switch over:

• Test workflows with fake customer submissions

• Check imported data for errors

• Review contact info, tags, and notes

• Validate email and SMS automations

You want a flawless customer experience from Day 1.

7. Train Your Team and Go Live

Once everything’s ready:

• Give your support and sales teams access to GoHighLevel

• Host training sessions on how to use GHL pipelines, workflows, and notes

• Set your Zendesk to “read-only” mode or cancel your subscription if you’re ready

Congratulations you’ve now migrated from Zendesk to GoHighLevel successfully!