topic Re: Create large GDB? in Python Questions

Create large GDB?

MichaelLenore1 — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 20:19:52 GMT

I am trying to create a geodatabase with many (15000+) shapefiles in it. I have a folder with all the .shps, and I have an empty gdb. I have tried the feature class to geodatabase tool, but it hangs forever - over 45 minutes last time I tried it. What is the fastest way to do this?

Thanks!

Re: Create large GDB?

JakeSkinner — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 20:44:46 GMT

Hi Michael,

With 1500+ shapefiles, this may take a few hours depending on the size of all the shapefiles. I would recommend letting the Feature Class to Geodatabase run overnight and see if it completes by morning.

Re: Create large GDB?

BruceHarold — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 20:47:38 GMT

Hello Michael

Data Interoperability extension can help you, use a shapefile reader with a directory input and wildcard "*" and write to a single geodatabase feature class. If you can share data I can give you a sample tool. You can obtain an evaluation license of Data Interoperability.

Re: Create large GDB?

MichaelLenore1 — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 21:03:15 GMT

Will do - but actually the place it hangs isn't the tool operation, it's the selection of input features. I selected them all (shift click) but arcmap is not responding - that is, I can't click "add" if that makes sense.

Re: Create large GDB?

JakeSkinner — Sun, 12 Dec 2021 02:36:39 GMT

You could try python:

import arcpy
arcpy.env.workspace = r"C:\shapefiles_workspace"

shapefileList = []

#Append shapefiles to list
for shapefile in arcpy.ListFeatureClasses("*"):
    shapefileList.append(shapefile)

#Reference output File Geodatabase
out_location = r"C:\file_geodatabase_path\Data.gdb"

#Import Shapefiles
arcpy.FeatureClassToGeodatabase_conversion(shapefileList, out_location)‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍

Re: Create large GDB?

MichaelLenore1 — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 21:20:43 GMT

It's running, and pretty fast! Thanks!

Re: Create large GDB?

JayantaPoddar — Thu, 23 Feb 2017 21:31:01 GMT

Go with Python scripting as suggested by Jake if you have worked in Python.

Another alternative would be using Model Builder using iteration.

Examples of using iterators in ModelBuilder—Help | ArcGIS Desktop

Iterate Feature Classes—Help | ArcGIS Desktop