Editing Automatic import

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'''Navigation:''' [[Main_Page]] > [[Contacts]] > Automatic import

= Automatic Import =

== Introduction ==
The '''Automatic Import''' feature in ActiveCampaign allows users to seamlessly add and update contacts in their account on a recurring basis without the need for manual intervention. This feature is particularly valuable for users who manage contacts in other external applications, such as ecommerce solutions or project management tools, and want to import those contacts into their ActiveCampaign account easily. By eliminating the need to manually upload CSV files, this feature streamlines the contact management process, saving time and reducing errors.

== How to Access this Feature ==
To access the '''Automatic Import''' feature, follow these steps:
1. Navigate to the '''Contacts''' overview page within your ActiveCampaign account.
2. Click the '''Import''' button to initiate the process.

== Step-by-Step Instructions ==
Here’s how to set up an automatic import step by step:

1. On the '''Contacts''' overview page, locate and click the '''Import''' button.
   
   ![Import button in contacts](https://s3.amazonaws.com/screensteps_live/image_assets/assets/001/808/4276508.jpg)
   
2. Choose your desired external service from which to import contacts by clicking on it.

   ![Select an external service](https://s3.amazonaws.com/screensteps_live/image_assets/assets/001/808/433/original/c75dae88-ea2d-4ea9-9f82-b1c4f1a96adb.png?1533658045)

3. A modal window will appear with prompts to guide you through the setup. Follow these prompts to complete the setup of your automatic import.

4. Upon successful setup, you will see a number indicating how many automatic imports are established for that specific external service.

   ![Automatic import setup confirmation](https://s3.amazonaws.com/screensteps_live/image_assets/assets/001/808/429/original/c7f45831-d839-462d-9254-7537ff909289.png?1533658043)

There is no limit to the number of automatic imports you can create; however, it is advisable to maintain only 1-2 imports per service to reduce confusion and keep your account organized.

== Configuration Options and Settings ==
When setting up the '''Automatic Import''', the following elements are involved:
- External service selection: This allows you to select the source from which to import contacts.
- Fields creation: The tool generates fields and associated personalization tags based on the external service's naming conventions.

It is important to note that the automatic import will not:
- Send instant autoresponders for new contacts added.
- Send webhooks when contacts are added or updated.
- Update a contact to “Active” status if they are currently unsubscribed.
- Allow you to manually map fields.
- Send list-specific subscription notifications.

== Best Practices and Tips ==
For optimal use of the '''Automatic Import''' feature, consider these best practices:
- Organize your imports: Limit the number of automatic imports for each external service to 1-2 to avoid confusion within your account.
- Ensure valid email addresses: Verify that all contacts imported have a valid email address to prevent issues during the import process.
- Monitor your contact limit: Keep track of your contact limit to ensure successful imports. If you're nearing the limit, consider enabling auto-upgrade to prevent disruptions.

== Common Use Cases with Examples ==
- **Ecommerce Integration:** If you run an online store using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce, use the '''Automatic Import''' feature to keep customer contacts updated in real-time without manual uploads.
- **Project Management Tools:** For teams utilizing project management applications (like Asana or Trello), automatically importing contacts can help maintain accurate and current contact lists for project-related communications.

== Troubleshooting Section ==
Here are common issues and fixes when dealing with the '''Automatic Import''' feature:

1. **Contacts Not Being Added:**
   - The automatic importer may stop adding contacts if you have reached your contact limit. It's recommended to enable auto-upgrade to increase this limit.
   
2. **Invalid Email Addresses:**
   - Ensure all contacts have valid email addresses. Contacts without email addresses will not be imported.
   
3. **Importing Large Numbers of Contacts:**
   - If you're trying to add more than 500 contacts at once, the import process may take time. The system checks for new and updated contacts every 30 minutes.

If issues persist, it might be faster to upload a CSV file for immediate contact addition.

== FAQ ==
1. **What is the '''Automatic Import''' feature?**
   - The '''Automatic Import''' feature automates the addition and updating of contacts in your ActiveCampaign account from external applications without manual uploads.

2. **How often does the system check for new contacts?**
   - The system checks for new or updated contacts every 30 minutes.

3. **Can I manually map fields during automatic import?**
   - No, the automatic import does not allow for manual mapping of fields.

4. **What happens if I exceed my contact limit?**
   - If you exceed your contact limit, the automatic importer will stop adding contacts until you upgrade your account or reduce the number of contacts.

5. **Are autoresponders sent for newly imported contacts?**
   - No, the automatic import feature does not trigger instant autoresponders for newly added contacts.

6. **Is there a limit to the number of automatic imports I can create?**
   - While there is no strict limit, it's advised to maintain a maximum of 1-2 imports for each service to ensure better organization.

7. **How do I edit or delete an existing automatic import?**
   - To edit or delete an automatic import, navigate to the Import page, select the automatic import, and click '''Edit''' or '''Delete''' as necessary.

For further assistance, refer to ActiveCampaign's additional resources.
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