Easiest way to import geography boundary files?

[fieldsa83]

I have access to three formats, wondering which is the easiest to import and use to make a map in SAS:

-ArcGS (.shp)

-Geography markup (.gml)

-MapInfo (.tab)

[Reeza]

SHP files are supported by default and the easiest.

[fieldsa83]

Thanks, it's now saying "SHX file is not found or is invalid".

The SHP also came with an SHX, is it trying to call out for that or something?

[ChrisHemedinger]

Here's an example of using MAPIMPORT with 3rd party shape files.

More information from @MikeZdeb: http://www.lexjansen.com/nesug/nesug11/gr/gr11.pdf, including some details about SHX.

[fieldsa83]

Thanks I was actually just reading this and it helped solve my problem!

[Reeza]

A SHP file isn't a single file, it has 3 other files at least that have supporting information. 

If you downloaded the SHP file from somewhere all the files should be included.

By chance are you working with the Statistics Canada Boundaries? You'll also need to project them if you do. 

If this is the case, message me with your email address and I'll send you the code that walks through using the StatCan boundaries (CSD I think in the example).