If you're performing an import and you're running into an error message or the import is failing, you should start by checking the file you're importing.
Check your file
When checking your import file for problems, you must use a text editor, such as Notepad++. Avoid using spreadsheet applications such as Microsoft Excel as these will obscure data issues in your file.
Ensure the file is a true .CSV
Renaming a file extension does not convert the file type. To ensure your file is truly a CSV, use the Save As functionality in your main application (e.g., Excel) and select CSV as the output format.
Ensure consistent row lengths
Open your import file in Notepad++ and verify that each row has the same number of items, with no line breaks. If rows differ in length or contain line breaks that do not lead to new records, you need to correct the formatting.
Correct | Incorrect |
There are 5 column names in Row 1, and each row below also has 5 data points (one for each column) with each row representing a record. | There are 5 column names in Row 1 but row 3 only has 3 data points, with the remaining data points appearing in Row 4. This is incorrect as the data in Row 4 should actually be appended to Row 3. |
Check for abnormally large file size
CSV files should not be excessively large. If your import file is unusually large, it may contain unnecessary data. Open your import file in Notepad++ and ensure that any rows containing no data are removed.