Formatting your CSV Import Files

The following can cause issues in a CSV file:

1. CSV is a "Comma Separated Values" file. This means that any time a comma is put into one of the fields the file will read it as you want to move the remaining information over into a new field. For example, if you have "6,432" in Column 1, the file will actually read it as Column 1 has a "6" and Column 2 has "432".
2. If there are corrupt images in the file. For example "–". In order to remove the incorrect text as well as commas, you want to do CTRL "F" > Replace > Under "Find what" paste in your text (i.e. – or a comma) and leave "Replace with" empty.
3. For best practices, it is recommended to upload the file into Google Sheets. Once there, highlight all columns and rows, go to Format > Number > Plain Text. This will help with cleaning up the file. You can also download a CSV version by going to File > Download as > Comma-separated values (.csv, current sheet).
4. Express has an option to show your Field Template (to find this go to Express > Results > Import Data > "Export a template" link if found right below the drop-down menu that lists the file type). If you would like to change any of these fields, you will need to go to Express > Define Oppties Attributes > edit the mapping for "External CSV".
5. For each field type shown in that template there are certain pieces of information allowed:
   • Text: Memo field; Plan names; invoice; customer, etc., no commas
   • Decimal: up to four decimals allowed; no commas
   • Checkbox: FALSE (or 0) or TRUE (or 1)
   • Currency: no commas; “no” (not allowed, must use "0" for no, and "1" for yes); only up to two decimal points
   • User Type: username of Rep, no commas
   • Date: date only (use “/”), no commas (Must be in MM/DD/YYYY format)