This guide provides detailed instructions on how to import products in bulk using the CSV import feature in Ordermentum. It walks you through the entire process, from downloading the template to uploading your product data, and offers best practices for ensuring a smooth import.
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you have a large list of products to manage in Ordermentum, using the CSV import feature is an efficient way to create and edit products in bulk. This guide will take you through the steps necessary to ensure your products are accurately imported and set up in your system.
Step 1: Download the Template
Navigate to Settings > Imports and select Products.
Download a blank product template CSV file.
This template will serve as the foundation for inputting your product data.
Step 2: Fill in the Required Columns
While some columns in the template are optional, the following fields must be completed for each product:
SKU: The unique identifier for each product.
Name: The product name.
Price (GST excluded): The price of the product, excluding GST.
TaxCode: Indicate whether the product is taxable (use GST) or not (use N/A).
SalesCode: The code as per your accounting software, or use 200 if unspecified.
Categories: If the CSV includes a category that does not already exist in Ordermentum, it will be automatically created.
Enabled: Use TRUE to make the product visible and available for purchase, or FALSE to keep it hidden.
Ensure that these columns are accurately filled out to avoid errors during the upload process.
Step 3: Upload the CSV File
Once your CSV file is complete, return to the Imports section.
Click Upload File and select your CSV file for upload.
This step will initiate the process of adding or updating products in your catalogue.
Step 4: Fixing Errors
If your file contains errors, Ordermentum will notify you in two ways:
UI Error Messages: Simple checks (e.g., missing required fields) will display error messages directly in the user interface immediately after upload.
Email Error Reports: For complex checks (e.g.,
ReferenceIDalready exists), detailed error messages will be sent to your email.
Steps to Fix Errors:
Review the error messages provided in the UI or your email.
Correct the errors directly in the CSV file.
Re-upload the corrected CSV file by following the previous steps.
Step 5: Processing Time
Depending on the size of your data, processing may take a few minutes. You will receive an email notification once the process is complete and your products have been successfully added or updated in the system.
Note: You will need to upload images separately after the products have been created.
Exporting Products with In-Stock Status
Ordermentum now allows you to export your product list along with the "In Stock" status of each product.
How to Export:
Navigate to Settings > Exports and select Products.
Choose the option to include the "In Stock" status in your export.
Click Export to download the CSV file containing your product data and stock status.
This feature helps you keep track of your inventory levels and manage stock availability effectively.
Best Practices
Use ReferenceIDs: When importing or updating products, it's recommended to use
ReferenceIDs for unique identification of product variants. This ensures accurate updates, especially when dealing with multiple variants.
Leverage Optional Columns: Since existing data won’t be deleted if optional columns are missing, you can focus on updating specific fields without affecting other information.
Monitor Error Messages: Pay close attention to error messages displayed in the UI and emails. They guide you to the exact issues that need fixing, saving you time during the import process.
Use Sentence Case: Consider using sentence case for product names instead of all caps, as this is generally more professional and easier to read for customers.
Include Keywords: Ensure that product names contain relevant keywords, and provide additional details in the product description to help customers make informed decisions.
Maintain Unique SKUs: Each product must have a unique SKU code in your accounting platform to prevent issues during bulk creation or editing. This is essential for maintaining accurate inventory and order management.
Regularly Export Products: Utilize the export feature to regularly back up your product list and monitor the "In Stock" status.