KiCad Export Guide

KiCad to Gerber export guide for PCB fabrication

This guide explains the practical files a PCB manufacturer expects from a KiCad project: Gerbers, drill files, board outline, BOM, placement data, and notes for fabrication or assembly.

Before exporting from KiCad

• Run ERC on the schematic and DRC on the PCB layout.
• Confirm the board outline, mounting holes, edge cuts, and connector positions.
• Check footprint assignments for every part in the BOM.
• Verify solder mask openings, silkscreen readability, and courtyard conflicts.

Files to export

• Gerbers for copper layers, solder mask, paste, silkscreen, and board outline.
• Drill files for plated and non-plated holes.
• IPC netlist or equivalent verification file when required by the vendor.
• BOM and pick-and-place files for PCB assembly orders.

Common KiCad export mistakes

• Missing edge cuts or ambiguous board outline.
• Unclear part rotation in the placement file.
• Generic BOM rows without manufacturer part numbers.
• Silkscreen placed over pads or under components.