You can transfer documents OK. If you are using also Office 2007 on your new installation, the default file saving format is with a 4 digit extension. This will make such files invisible to Word 2003, which is what you are probably using now, yes? You can thwart this and make it save the document with a three digit extension (As has been done for so many years) so that older versions of Word can "see" it. You have to go into the Word settings. I forget the path. If you are still using Office 2003 on your new toy, then you don't need to do anything.

HOWEVER, I strongly advise you to keep XP. Vista is no end of trouble. The stated reason for the new version was various "improvements" for consumers. But the REAL reason for the new version was tighter security for Microsoft so that they can crack down on pirated versions of Windows. You will have to "check in" with the M$ mothership over the Net periodically, and there is a limited number of times you can install it--for drive crashes or rebuilds, or other legitimate reasons--without going through some MAJOR hassles with M$. If there is no special need for you to go to Vista, I recommend you stay with XP. IMHO.