To answer your question on spell/item transfer, yes, they are saved.
There are conditions, however. In a single player campaign:
- Everything within your character's possession at the time of exportation is carried on to the next import, this includes experience, spells, and items
- Containers and quest items do not transfer (containers being scroll cases, gem bags, etc.)[/list]In a multiplayer campaign, things are a little different. It all depends on what the host allows.
I hope I managed to answer part of your query.