Once you’ve imported vehicles, you can start building your catalog structure.
Working with categories is two-step process. In this guide, we’ll show you how to import categories and where to source them from. In the next article, we’ll introduce the concept of category mapping and guide you through the mapping process.
Before you begin
Connect your Auto Integration with your API Credentials.
Why importing categories matter?
Sorting products into the right categories helps customers find what they need, improves their shopping experience, and encourages more purchases.
A clear, consistent category structure also makes inventory management easier and keeps supplier updates smooth and reliable.
💡 The category list you’re about to download from the Auto Integration (which you’ll also see later on the Category Mapping page) isn’t your store’s final category setup. You’ll only see these categories in your store after you import products that belong to them from that specific integration.
Is it okay to skip category import for now?
Not really. Categories are the foundation of your catalog, so it’s important to set them up before importing products.
Can I just keep the default categories in my store?
That's entirely up to you. Your store comes with a set of demo categories you can use as a starting point. Take a look at them first — keep the ones that match what you plan to sell, and delete any you don’t need.
If you're building a custom catalog, you can remove the default categories and either:
Import a category structure from an Auto Integration.
Import categories via CSV.
Category structures from Auto Integrations follow industry standards. Importing them helps you organize products in a clear, consistent way and makes syncing across multiple integrations much more accurate.
💡 If you delete all default categories before importing anything, the supplier’s structure will be used as-is during your first product import.
Do all integrations require importing categories?
Most catalog providers and warehouse distributors offer a built-in category structure— except Dix Performance and Keystone, which don't provide any.
Can I add categories from multiple sources?
It's possible. While we recommend starting with one primary integration to build your catalog, you can also add categories from multiple sources over time.
Choosing one primary integration with a well-organized category structure (like SEMA or Turn14) makes it easier to manage your catalog — one integration will keep structure updated and add new categories if needed.
That said, you can also build your catalog step by step — for example, by importing some categories from one integration and later adding others from a different one as your store grows.
Just make sure to keep your category structure consistent. If you import similar categories (like Wheels) from multiple integrations, you could end up with duplicates or a messy layout. That’s why mapping your categories is important.
💡 If you disable the integration your catalog was built around, you won’t be able to import or update categories from that provider. However, any data already imported — such as category structure, categories, products, brands, and so on — will remain in your store.
What’s the best source for importing categories?
To create the more accurate and detailed category structure, we recommend importing from a catalog provider, as they generally offer more robust data than most warehouse distributors.
Category import requirements for each integration
Some integrations require pre-setup steps before you can import categories. Below is a list of each integration and its specific requirements:
Auto Integration | Action / Condition |
ASAP Network, SEMA Data, Premier, and Turn14 | No additional steps needed, just start the category import. |
CatalogRack |
This creates only basic, single-level categories. For better category structure, we recommend using SEMA to import categories, and then CatalogRack for product data if you plan to use it. |
Meyer | Set up an FTP feed in advance before importing categories. |
AutoSync, ATD, or WheelPros | In wheels and tires integrations categories are imported automatically once you enter your API credentials.
You can skip ahead to Category Mapping or General catalog import settings. |
How to import сategories
To import categories from your auto integration:
Go to Catalog › Catalog Import.
Open the Category Mapping tab.
Select your integration (e.g., ASAP, Meyer, SEMA Data, Turn14).
Click Import Categories.
The process may take some time. Keep refreshing the page to check the progress. When it's complete, the status will update to "Categories data import completed."
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💡 If your initial category import fails, click Sync Categories to restart it.
✅ Success! You've Imported Your Categories
The category structure will be fully created after you import products in Step 10.
Repeat this for each integration. Keep reading to see your next step.
Keeping categories in sync
Catalog providers update their category structures periodically. We recommend syncing your category structure regularly to keep your store up to date.
Steps:
Go to Catalog › Catalog Import.
Open the Category Mapping tab.
Select your integration (e.g., ASAP, Meyer, SEMA Data, Turn14).
Click Sync Categories.
Note: Importing categories won't change your store's structure until your mapping rules are applied and products are imported.
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What’s next?
Now, set up category mapping rules to adjust the catalog structure.
Can't find answers you're looking for?
Email us at support@x-cart.com. We will be happy to help!