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How to export data in different formats

This guide shows you which format to use and what to expect during each export.

Formats at a glance


How to specify the format

Pass the desired extension to --download:
For dataset downloads, use:

What happens during each export

JSONL and CSV

Both JSONL and CSV trigger a publish workflow before downloading. Landbase runs the publish step asynchronously — it formats and flattens the data, then makes it available for download. This usually takes 30–90 seconds. You will see a progress indicator while the publish step runs. The CLI polls until the file is ready.

Compressed JSONL

Same as JSONL — triggers a publish workflow. The output is compressed with gzip. Unzip with:
Or read without unzipping:

Parquet

Parquet downloads the native dataset bytes directly — no publish step. This is the fastest format for large datasets. Use it when feeding results into DuckDB, Pandas, or Spark:

Choosing between JSONL and CSV

Use JSONL when:
  • You are writing a script or piping through jq
  • You want every available field (CSV may truncate or flatten nested fields)
  • You are loading data into Python or a database
Use CSV when:
  • You are opening in Excel or Google Sheets
  • You are handing off to someone non-technical
  • A BI tool requires it

Publishing a dataset you already have

If you already have a dataset from a prior run and want to download it in a new format: