Importing batches of objects (zip files)

Hi there,

Just a general query surrounding the exported zip files generated from exporting individual objects from throughout the CMS.

I recently migrated changes from local to live, however the amount of changes this time around required around 20 individual objects (templates, types, custom tables, scopes) to import into the live environment.

I was wondering if there was a better or rather more preferred solution of grabbing multiple objects from one CMS to import into another?

Exporting isn't an issue, it's more importing I'd like to see an improvement on. Is there a tool that could combine batches of zip files into 1 individual file which the CMS can read?

I'm aware of the Sites > Export tool which can allow you to select a specific "from" date which can literally grab anything and everything modified/created after the set date. The problem I find with this tool is that it could potentially be dangerous as it has been known to select other elements you're not aware of. Importing a file like this could cause more hassle than it's worth. I know I could go through each selection tree and deselect anything I don't want, however to repeat this each time is a bit pointless and much easier to export individual objects in the long run.

Let me know your opinions and whether you have succeeded in a more linear approach or easier method when making CMS objects live.

Thanks, Andy