Db2 Migration
Migrate IBM Db2 to Postgres
and escape mainframe costs
IBM Db2 licensing runs $30K–$200K per PVU bundle, with mainframe MIPS costs on top. The Db2 talent pool shrinks every year. Postgres gives you a modern, open database with a thriving ecosystem.
License Savings Calculator
See how much you can save by leaving Db2
Migration Process
Four phases from Db2 to production Postgres
Db2 SQL to Postgres
Automated conversion of Db2 SQL dialect, stored procedures, triggers, and UDFs to Postgres equivalents. MERGE, identity columns, and MQTs handled with tested patterns.
RPG/COBOL Integration
Every RPG and COBOL program that calls Db2 is mapped. We provide REST API wrappers or direct ODBC/JDBC connectivity so applications keep running during migration.
Data Migration
Full data transfer with EBCDIC-to-UTF8 conversion for mainframe sources. Packed decimal, date formats, and BLOB handling validated with row-level checksums.
Parallel Run and Cutover
Both databases run in parallel with journal-based or CDC replication. Applications migrate incrementally with instant rollback throughout the transition period.
IBM Db2 vs Postgres
| IBM Db2 | PostgreSQL | |
|---|---|---|
| License Cost | $30K-$200K per PVU bundle | $0 (open source) |
| Platform | Mainframe / IBM i / Linux | Any OS, any cloud |
| Talent Pool | Shrinking, high salary demand | Largest open-source DB community |
| JSON Support | BLU/JSON store (limited) | Native JSONB with full indexing |
| Extensions | IBM-only ecosystem | 400+ extensions (PostGIS, pgvector, Citus) |
| Cloud Options | IBM Cloud only (native) | Every major cloud provider |
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Db2 to Postgres migration typically take?
Most Db2 migrations complete in 4-12 months depending on database size, number of stored procedures, and RPG/COBOL integration points. Simple departmental databases can migrate in as little as 6 weeks.
What about RPG and COBOL programs that call Db2?
We map every RPG/COBOL integration point and provide replacement strategies: REST API wrappers for gradual decoupling, or direct Postgres connectivity via ODBC/JDBC. The database migrates first; application modernization follows.
Is Db2 SQL compatible with Postgres?
Db2 SQL is roughly 70-80% compatible with Postgres. Key differences include MERGE statement syntax, identity column behavior, and MQT (materialized query tables). Our automated tooling handles the bulk of conversion.
Can we migrate from Db2 on IBM i (AS/400)?
Yes. We have specific tooling for Db2 for i migrations, including handling of system-named objects, physical/logical files, and journal-based replication for parallel operation during cutover.
What about Db2 z/OS (mainframe)?
Mainframe Db2 migrations are our most impactful engagement. We extract schemas, stored procedures, and data from z/OS, convert to Postgres, and help you decommission MIPS that cost $3K-$5K/month each.
Ready to escape IBM licensing? Let's build your migration plan.
Send us your Db2 schema catalog. We'll deliver a scoped migration plan with timeline and cost estimate within 5 business days.