How do I export or transfer my iTunes from one laptop to another?

Question

I'm switching from one laptop to another (both using WIN 7), and I'm having difficulty.  It might be that my iTunes folder is incorrect or in the wrong place.  I tried copying my iTunes folder from a folder in My Music.  This folder also had a list of folders that seem to be album names.  In alphabetical order, one of these folders is named "iTunes".  That folder has files like "iTunes Library.itl", several temp files, iTunes Library Extras.itdb  and iTunes Library Genius.itdb.  It also has folders called "Album artwork" and "iTunes Media".  I tried copying over this iTunes  folder, but nothing showed up in iTunes.  This would be easy if I were allowed to synch from my iPod to iTunes, but I've heard that's not allowed.  Any help, especially step-by-step assistance, would be greatly appreciated.
Mike

Answer 1

Migrate an iTunes library from one computer to another
These are two possible approaches that will normally work to move an existing library to a new computer.
Method 1
Backup the library with this User Tip.
Deauthorize the old computer if you no longer want to access protected content on it.
Restore the backup to your new computer using the same tool used to back it up.
Keep your backup up-to-date in future.
Method 2
Connect the two computers to the same network. Share your <User's Music> folder from the old computer and copy the entireiTunes library folder into the <User's Music> folder on the new one. Again, deauthorize the old computer if no longer required.
Both methods should give the new computer a working clone of the library that was on the old one, with ratings, play counts, playlists etc. preserved. As far as iTunes is concerned this is still the "home" library for your devices so you shouldn't have any issues with iTunes wanting to erase and reload.
I'd normally recommend method 1 since it establishes an ongoing backup for your library and unlike copying with Windows Explorer the process can be resumed if it is interrupted and it will continue to the next item if there are any read/access errors.
Note if you have iOS devices and haven't moved your contacts and calendar items across then you should create one dummy entry of each in your new profile and iTunes should  merge the existing data from the device.
If your media folder has been split out from the main iTunes folder you may need to do some preparatory work to make it easier to move. See Make a split library portable.
Should you be in the unfortunate position where you are no longer able to access your original library or a backup then then see Recover your iTunes library from your iPod or iOS device for advice on how to set up your devices with a new library with the maximum preservation of data.
tt2