MapKmlTools Logo
MapKmlTools

Shapefile (SHP) to KML Converter Online

Convert between ESRI Shapefile and KML instantly. Free browser-based GIS converter with no upload required for data security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is KML/Shapefile Converter free to use?

Yes, SHP to KML conversion is fully free.

Does KML/Shapefile Converter upload my files to a server?

No, the file transformation is done locally with no upload required.

What file formats does KML/Shapefile Converter support?

Supports zipped Shapefiles (.shp, .dbf, .shx, .prj) and KML/KMZ.

Does it preserve projections?

Yes, it reads the .prj file and reprojects coordinates to WGS84 for KML compliance.

What files do I need to include in my upload?

A complete Shapefile requires at minimum three files: .shp (geometry), .shx (index), and .dbf (attribute table). The .prj file is strongly recommended — without it the tool assumes WGS84, which will place your data in the wrong location if it uses a different CRS like State Plane or UTM.

How do I convert KML to Shapefile?

This tool converts in both directions. To convert KML to SHP, upload your KML file and the tool will output a zipped Shapefile folder (.shp, .shx, .dbf, .prj) ready for QGIS or ArcGIS.

Is my data uploaded to your servers?

No. Shapefile conversion runs entirely in your browser. Your proprietary GIS data is never sent to any server.

What coordinate system will the output KML use?

The output is always reprojected to WGS84 (EPSG:4326), which is the standard for Google Earth and GPS devices. Your original CRS is read from the .prj file.

What file size limits apply?

Zipped Shapefile archives up to 100MB are supported. Very large files with millions of vertices may be slow — use our KML Simplifier first to reduce complexity.

KML ↔ Shapefile Converter

Upload KML/KMZ File(s)

Standard .kml or .kmz files (bulk upload supported)

Instructions:

  • Upload your .kml or .kmz file(s). You can select multiple files.
  • The tool will combine them into one file or separate them based on your choice.
  • Download the Shapefile (.zip).
4.8(127 ratings)
Was this helpful?

What is KML ↔ Shapefile?

Shapefiles are the industry standard for desktop GIS (ArcGIS, QGIS). KML is the standard for Google Earth.

This tool bridges the gap, allowing you to share professional GIS data with clients who only use Google Earth.

How to Use KML ↔ Shapefile

  1. Zip your .shp, .shx, and .dbf files together (or select them all).
  2. Upload the files.
  3. The tool reprojects coordinates to Lat/Lon.
  4. Download the KML file.