Editing Import deals

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'''Navigation:''' [[Main_Page]] > [[CRM]] > [[Deals]] > Import deals

= Import deals into ActiveCampaign =

== Introduction ==
The '''Import deals''' feature in ActiveCampaign allows you to import open deals from a CSV file into your ActiveCampaign account. This feature is particularly useful for users transitioning from another CRM system to ActiveCampaign's robust CRM capabilities. By facilitating the migration of deals, you can maintain continuity and ensure that your sales processes remain uninterrupted.

== How to Access This Feature ==
To access the '''Import deals''' feature, you must be an account admin or a user with permissions to use this feature. 

1. Navigate to the '''Deals''' section from the left menu in your ActiveCampaign account.
2. Click on the '''Import deals''' option to proceed.

== Step-by-Step Instructions ==

### 1. Preparing Your CSV File
Before initiating the import, ensure your CSV file meets the necessary requirements:

* The CSV file must be in '''UTF-8''' format to handle special characters properly.
* The maximum file size permitted is '''100 MB'''.
* Make sure to configure '''Pipelines''', '''Stages''', and '''deal custom fields''' in ActiveCampaign prior to the import.
* Ensure all '''deal owners''' (ActiveCampaign account users) exist in your account before the import.

### 2. Importing Deals
Follow the steps below to import deals effectively:

1. Click [[Deals]] on the left menu.
2. Select the '''Import deals''' option.
3. In the '''Import Deals''' modal, click the '''Select File''' button.
4. Locate and select the CSV file you wish to import.
5. Once the file is uploaded, you’ll need to map the columns from your file to fields in ActiveCampaign:
   * The system will attempt to automap fields based on your file's headers.
   * You will see a preview of the field values in the '''Field values''' column on the right.
   * Click each ActiveCampaign field name dropdown to map it to the respective column in your CSV. You can only map one column to one field.
   * Note: If you do not map the '''Deal Value''', it will default to '''$100''' upon import.

### 3. Advanced Options
Clicking on the '''Advanced Options''' menu allows for additional configurations:
- Use default values for required fields left blank. If a required field isn't provided, the import record will be skipped unless this option is enabled.
- Allow blank fields to overwrite existing data (default is Off).
- Select a '''default pipeline''' for deals without a listed pipeline.
- Select a '''default stage''' for deals lacking a specified stage.

### 4. Finalizing the Import
Once your fields are properly mapped and any advanced options have been set, click the '''Import''' button. The import process will begin, and you can navigate away from the page while it runs.

== Configuration Options and Settings ==
While importing deals, keep the following configuration options in mind:
- '''Pipeline''': Name must match an existing pipeline in your ActiveCampaign account.
- '''Stage''': Name must match an existing stage.
- '''Deal title''': A title is mandatory for each deal; otherwise, an error will occur.
- '''Deal owner''': Must be specified using either the ActiveCampaign account username or email address.
- '''Deal ID''' (optional): Include if updating existing deals during import.
- '''Contact or Account association''': Each deal must be linked to a contact or an account in ActiveCampaign.

**Important:** The import process does not allow multiple contacts for a single deal or the creation of contact roles during the import; these can only be done through the API.

== Best Practices and Tips ==
- Ensure your CSV file is accurately formatted to avoid import errors, such as including no line breaks and using the proper date format (YYYY-MM-DD).
- Prior to importing, verify that all deal owners and related pipelines/stages exist in your ActiveCampaign account.
- Regularly back up your data before performing any significant import operations.
- After import, check the '''Import Status''' to validate the import was successful and address any errors promptly.

== Common Use Cases with Examples ==
1. **Migrating from another CRM**: Use the '''Import deals''' feature when transitioning from a competitor CRM. This preserves historical sales data and customer interactions.
2. **Updating existing deals**: If you're refining deal details or reassessing ownership, you can include deal IDs in your CSV to update them accurately during the import.

== Troubleshooting ==
If issues arise during the import, refer to the '''Import Status''' page where you can view any errors related to the import process. Common errors include:
- Account ID not found
- Contact ID not found
- Deal ID not found
- Missing deal title
- Unrecognized deal owner email/username

Each error will indicate the reason for the failure, allowing you to correct the CSV file and try again.

== Related Features ==
For further exploration of the CRM capabilities within ActiveCampaign, consider reviewing the following features:
- [[CRM]]
- [[Deals]]
- [[Pipelines]]

== FAQ ==
1. **What formats can I use for the import file?**
   - The import tool only accepts '''CSV''' file formats.

2. **What if I don't have deal owners created?**
   - All deal owners must be set up in ActiveCampaign prior to import; otherwise, the import process will fail.

3. **Can I import deals without specifying a pipeline?**
   - No, each deal must be linked to an existing pipeline; however, you can designate a '''default pipeline''' for deals without a specified one.

4. **What will happen if my CSV file exceeds the 100 MB limit?**
   - The import will fail if the CSV file exceeds the 100 MB limit—you will need to reduce its size.

5. **What if my fields contain line breaks?**
   - Presence of line breaks may cause the import to fail, so it's crucial to ensure that no line breaks exist in your field values.

6. **Can I import multiple contacts for a single deal?**
   - No, the system does not permit importing multiple contacts for a single deal during this import process.

7. **What is the default deal value if none is specified?**
   - Deals without a specified value during the import will default to '''$100'''.

By understanding the '''Import deals''' feature, users can effectively manage their sales data within ActiveCampaign, ensuring a smooth transition and ongoing sales process.
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