Duplicate Matching Records during XML import

One of the nice benefits of CRM is that it is easy to move the system configuration from one environment to another.  This is done using the customization export and import functionality. However, sometimes errors occur during the import process.  Below is an error I received recently while doing an import.  The error is below:

"Failure: new_entityname_DuplicateMatchingRecord: A SQL Server error occurred. Try this action again. If the problem continues, check the Microsoft Dynamics CRM Community for solutions or contact your organization's Microsoft Dynamics CRM Administrator. Finally, you can contact Microsoft Support."

 

The error would seem to indicate that the entity already exists in the target environment.  However, this is not the case.  This error occurs if you export an entity that has duplication detection set to off.  To resolve this issue perform the following:

-Turn duplicate detection on for the entity in the source environment

-Export the entity

-Import the xml file

-Turn duplicate detection off for the entity

-Publish

By turning duplicate detection on for the entity prior to exporting, the error will be resolved.