# 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](https://support.arternal.com/en/articles/4902784-how-to-import-contacts#h_6338ba2ffd)  
2. [Step 2: Select "Import Contacts"](https://support.arternal.com/en/articles/4902784-how-to-import-contacts#h_2ab354a7c2)  
3. [Step 3: Prepare Your CSV File](https://support.arternal.com/en/articles/4902784-how-to-import-contacts#h_9280dc0871)  
4. [Step 4: Upload Your File](https://support.arternal.com/en/articles/4902784-how-to-import-contacts#h_f5068d63f2)

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](https://intercom.help/arternal/en/articles/9787508-data-migration-contacts).

Video tutorial linked [HERE](https://arternal.hubs.vidyard.com/watch/5jiSbz69QU5Ji525mAeYh8?).

## 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](https://app.intercom.com/)** for help!

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## 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](https://app.intercom.com/)** for help with formatting your spreadsheet or any other part of the import process.