Convert FiveM Scripts Between ESX, QBCore and Qbox

Convert a FiveM resource by mapping its framework, inventory and database dependencies, then testing one gameplay flow at a time. Renaming ESX events to QBCore events is not a complete conversion. A server-wide character migration is a separate project.

Before changing code

Work on an isolated development server with a copy of the resource and a disposable database. Record the exact source and target framework versions, inventory, targeting library, UI library and resource license. Protected files require a supported version from the author; editable configuration alone may not be enough.

1. Inventory the integration points

Search the resource files for ESX, QBCore, qbx_core, exports, RegisterNetEvent, MySQL and SQL table names. Classify each match as server, client or shared. List the expected inputs, return values and failure behavior before replacing it.

For example, a shop flow includes opening its UI, checking access, reading prices, taking payment, adding inventory and saving the result. Converting only its notification leaves the important behavior unchanged.

2. Map behavior explicitly

Resolve the target framework player on the server at the time of the action. ESX identifiers and QBCore/Qbox character IDs have different meanings; do not generate character IDs from truncated hashes or overwrite account identifiers. Keep a reviewed mapping when existing data must move.

Choose the inventory integration deliberately. Item names, weight units, slot handling, metadata and capacity checks differ. Do not silently fall back between inventory systems. Decide how cash, bank balances and any illicit-currency mechanic map without treating unrelated accounts as equivalent.

3. Implement a small adapter

Keep the framework-specific player, job, money and inventory calls in a server-only module. Client notifications and UI callbacks belong in a separate client module. Declare actual dependencies in fxmanifest.lua and start them before the resource.

For Qbox, consult the server exports and its compatibility guidance. A compatibility bridge can help existing QB resources, but it does not guarantee compatibility with every inventory, database query or modified core.

4. Preserve the trust boundary

The server must determine permitted items, prices, balances, job permissions and completion of rewarded tasks. Treat every client event argument as untrusted. A job name alone does not prove that a delivery happened; a repeated event must not pay repeatedly. Check both debit and item delivery outcomes, and define compensation when the second action fails.

5. Convert resource-owned storage

Compare the installed source and target schema before writing a migration. Use a separate, versioned script for that exact schema. Keep original identifiers, plates, metadata and a durable crosswalk. Report duplicate or unmapped rows instead of ignoring them. Do not modify framework-owned balances through SQL while the framework has them loaded in memory.

6. Verify and release

1. Test a fresh character and an existing one: login, the converted action, reconnect and server restart. Check persistence after each.
2. Test denied permissions, insufficient funds, full inventory, invalid input, repeated requests and disconnects during the operation. Confirm no unintended money or items are created.
3. Compare database rows and balances before and after known test actions. Investigate every unexpected difference.
4. Deploy the reviewed files and any required migration during a maintenance window. Keep matching file/database backups and a rollback procedure that accounts for writes made after release.

If the conversion fails

An absent export usually points to the wrong resource/version or start order. A callback that never returns needs inspection of both registration and invocation, including arguments and execution side. Missing items may reflect inventory metadata or capacity rules. Diagnose the failing boundary rather than adding broad compatibility shims.

Reference documentation

Cfx.re — resource manifest · Cfx.re — server security

Simultaneous Use of ESX and QBCore: Why It’s Not Feasible