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Preparing a File to Import
Preparing a File to Import

Learn how to get a CSV file for import.

Olga Tereshina avatar
Written by Olga Tereshina
Updated over a week ago

By default, X-Cart allows importing data in a CSV file. You can create it in any spreadsheet editor to your liking.


In case the "Excel Export / Import" add-on is installed and enabled, you can also import data in .xls (Excel 5), .xlsx (Excel 2007), and .ods (OpenDocument) formats.


Technically, there are two ways to create a CSV file for import:

In any case, you need to decide what specific data you need to import and how it should affect the store (create new, update or delete existing records) before proceeding with a file creation.

Creating CSV Files Based on a Sample

Use this method if you need to learn the import file structure or if you need to update a large amount of existing data in the store.

To get a sample, export the data you require via the Catalog > Export page of the Admin area. The resulting CSV file contents will have the format appropriate for the respective data type.

This method is also proper when you want to update existing data.

Creating CSV Files from Scratch

Use this method if you are an experienced X-Cart user and know the import fields' combinations well.

To create a new CSV file from scratch:

  1. Create a new table in your favorite spreadsheet editor (MS Excel, LibreOffice Calc, etc.).

  2. Define what data to import.
    Specify the selected data parameters in the cells of the first line in your spreadsheet file. The cell names will differ depending on the data type you selected.
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    The articles with detailed information on the supported fields can be found in the section CSV Format by X-Cart Data Type.


  3. Specify the exact details in the cells of the second and all subsequent lines. Ultimately, your file will look similar to the following:

  4. Save the file in CSV format. Make sure the file name matches the selected data type format.

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