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Shapefile vs GeoPackage: file sets and attribute preservation
Shapefile is a multi-file layer; GeoPackage holds multiple kinds of geographic data in SQLite.
Which format should you choose?
Deliver the full Shapefile set when required by the recipient; consider GeoPackage for multiple layers and attribute management.
Good fit for Shapefile
Deliver feature layers to existing GIS environments
- Exchange with recipients requiring Shapefile
Good fit for GeoPackage
Distributing and using geospatial data in one file
- Combining vector features, raster tiles, and attributes for GIS or offline use
Basic information
| Field | Shapefile | GeoPackage |
|---|---|---|
| Extension | .shp | .gpkg |
| MIME type | application/geopackage+sqlite3 | |
| Common uses | Deliver feature layers to existing GIS environments | Distributing and using geospatial data in one file |
| How to open | Open the set together and check CRS in .prj and encoding information such as .cpg. Ask the producer when metadata is missing; do not guess a CRS. | Open it in a GeoPackage-capable GIS such as QGIS and inspect its layers, coordinate reference systems, and extensions. SQLite tools may show its tables, but interpreting geometries and map tiles requires compatible software. |
| Export or convert | When migrating to GeoPackage check counts, geometry, CRS, text, field names and numeric precision. Split mixed geometries or multiple layers as needed on export. | You can export to GeoJSON, Shapefile, or MBTiles. The destination may not preserve every layer, attribute, coordinate reference system, or tile, so check feature counts, coordinates, attributes, and rendered maps after export. |
Choose by use case
Exchange with recipients requiring Shapefile
Deliver feature layers to existing GIS environments
ShapefileCombining vector features, raster tiles, and attributes for GIS or offline use
Distributing and using geospatial data in one file
GeoPackageKey point 1
Shapefile needs matching SHP/SHX/DBF components.
More on the differencesKey point 2
GeoPackage manages CRS and contents in prescribed tables.
More on the differencesMore on the differences
Agree on names, strings, numeric precision, date/time and NULL retention, as well as receiver support.
- Export to Shapefile may shorten field names and impose width/type limits. Keep a name mapping and verify encoding.
- Check shape/DBF order, counts, CRS and Z/M after conversion. GeoPackage tiles and extensions need separate preservation.
Frequently asked questions
Does migration to GeoPackage restore lost attributes?
No. Already truncated text/numbers and lost names cannot be reconstructed. Retain the pre-conversion original and verify.