How to Import Contacts

Learn how to import contacts into ARTERNAL using a template, including how to upload and process your spreadsheet.

Written by Yujia Zheng
October 14, 2024

Table of contents

1. Step 1: Access the Import/Export Section
2. Step 2: Select "Import Contacts"
3. Step 3: Prepare Your CSV File
4. Step 4: Upload Your File

Batch-importing contacts from an Excel or Google Sheet can save you time 🎉. Whether you're uploading new contacts or batch-updating existing ones, importing via a CSV file is the most efficient method. Follow this guide to ensure a smooth import process. For a detailed breakdown of the import template, check out our article here.

Video tutorial linked HERE.

Step 1: Access the Import/Export Section

• In the bottom-left corner, select the circle with your initials and then click Import/Export.

Step 2: Select "Import Contacts"

• On the left sidebar, click Import Contacts.

If you need a template for the contact CSV file, click the Get Template link to download it.

Step 3: Prepare Your CSV File

• Follow the template provided to correctly fill out your contact information.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Optional Fields: You don’t need to fill in every column. Leave columns blank if certain information is unavailable.
• Header Formatting: Ensure all spreadsheet headers are in lowercase and use underscores (e.g., first_name, last_name) as shown in the template.
• Multi-Entry Fields: Only the tags and roles fields allow multiple entries. Separate values with commas. Other fields like email and assigned lists only accept single entries.
• File Format: The spreadsheet must be in CSV format.
• Contact Limit: Each CSV file can hold up to 2,000 contacts. For larger lists, split them into separate files.
• Updating Existing Contacts: ARTERNAL uses email addresses to identify contacts. If the email already exists, the contact will be updated instead of creating a duplicate.

Step 4: Upload Your File

• Once your file is ready, click the Upload Spreadsheet button to import your contacts.

Need Help?

If you need assistance with formatting your spreadsheet or any other part of the import process, feel free to reach out to support@arternal.com for help!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: How can I get the contact import template?

A: When you click Import Contacts in the sidebar, there will be a link to download the template. Just click on Get Template to get started.

Q: What happens if I import a contact that already exists?

A: ARTERNAL identifies contacts by their email addresses. If the email already exists in your account, the contact will be updated instead of duplicated.

Q: Can I import more than 2,000 contacts at once?

A: No, each CSV file can contain up to 2,000 contacts. For larger lists, split them into separate files and upload them one at a time.

Q: What fields allow multiple entries?

A: Only the tags and roles fields support multiple entries. Separate values with commas when entering multiple items.

Q: What should I do if I have trouble formatting my spreadsheet?

A: You can reach out to support@arternal.com for help with formatting your spreadsheet or any other part of the import process.