Data portability clause
A provision ensuring data can be exported and transferred in a usable, structured format.
Definici贸n
A data portability clause obliges a supplier to make a customer's data available in a structured, commonly used and machine-readable format so it can be migrated to another system or provider. It gives contractual effect to the GDPR right to data portability and is closely linked to exit and lock-in concerns. The clause should specify formats, timing, completeness, and any assistance with migration.
Ejemplo
On termination the SaaS provider must, under the data portability clause, export all customer records as CSV within ten business days.
Por qu茅 es un riesgo para la empresa
Without a data portability clause, a supplier controls the terms on which data is released, which creates a significant lock-in and a costly negotiation at precisely the moment the relationship is ending. Where personal data is involved, the absence of clear portability obligations can also create GDPR compliance exposure for the data controller. Businesses that store large volumes of operational data in third-party systems are especially vulnerable if this is not addressed at contracting time.
C贸mo gestionarlo
- Include a data portability clause in every SaaS or platform contract at signing, not as an afterthought.
- Specify the exact formats (CSV, JSON, SQL dump, etc.), completeness requirements, and the timeline for delivery.
- Clarify whether migration assistance is included or at extra cost, and cap any additional fees.
- Periodically test the export process to confirm data can actually be extracted in the agreed format before you need it.
Referencias legales
Salvo indicaci贸n en contrario, las referencias remiten al derecho neerland茅s (Burgerlijk Wetboek, el C贸digo Civil neerland茅s); los instrumentos de la UE como el RGPD se aplican en toda la UE. Se trata de informaci贸n general, no de asesoramiento legal. Otras jurisdicciones tratan estos conceptos de forma distinta. Verifique el texto vigente y su situaci贸n con un abogado cualificado.
Preguntas frecuentes
Preguntas comunes sobre este t茅rmino.