Import contacts: Difference between revisions

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'''Navigation:''' [[Main_Page]] > [[Contacts]] > [[Import]] > Import contacts
'''Navigation:''' [[Main_Page]] > [[Contacts]] > import contacts


== How to Import Contacts into ActiveCampaign from a CSV File ==
== How do I import contacts with multiple values for a contact field? ==


With ActiveCampaign, you can easily import contacts into your account from a CSV file using the built-in import tool. This feature is crucial for users transitioning from another email marketing or marketing automation provider, allowing you to retain your valuable lists, contacts, custom fields, and other necessary data seamlessly. This article will walk you through the steps to import contacts efficiently, ensuring that you can get your email campaigns up and running without losing any critical information.
Importing contacts into ActiveCampaign is a fundamental feature that allows users to manage their contact database efficiently. One particularly useful aspect of this functionality is the ability to import contacts with multiple values for a single custom contact field. This is especially relevant in scenarios where you've collected data using a multi-select field, allowing for greater granularity in your contact information.


=== Introduction ===
This article will guide you through the process of importing contacts with multiple values, ensuring you can leverage all the features that ActiveCampaign has to offer.  
The import tool provided by ActiveCampaign enables you to map columns from your CSV file to fields within your account. This capability allows for considerable flexibility, including the option to create new custom contact fields, apply unique tags, and choose whether to import contacts as Active or Excluded. This importing feature is essential for maintaining and building your marketing automation strategies.


In this article, you'll learn:
== How to access this feature ==
* How to access the import feature.
* Step-by-step instructions for importing contacts from a CSV file.
* Configuration options and settings that can be customized during the import process.
* Best practices to ensure successful imports.
* Common troubleshooting tips to resolve potential issues.
* Frequently asked questions about the import feature.


=== How to Access This Feature ===
To access the contact import feature within ActiveCampaign, you need to be logged into your account. Once logged in, navigate to the '''Contacts''' section from the main dashboard. From there, you can start the import process by selecting the relevant options that allow you to upload your CSV file containing the contact information.
To access the import contacts feature, follow these simple steps:
1. Log into your ActiveCampaign account.
2. Locate and click on '''Contacts''' in the left menu.
3. Click on the '''Import''' button, which will take you to the import options.


=== Step-by-Step Instructions ===
== Step-by-step instructions ==
To import contacts from your CSV file, follow these steps:


# Click the '''Import from File''' button.
Follow these steps to import contacts with multiple values for a contact field:
# A file browser will appear. Navigate to your CSV file, select it, and click open.
# Once the file processes, you will be redirected to the import screen where you can begin mapping fields.
# For each field, you need to map the columns in your file to the fields in your account. Click the dropdown for each field to make selections.
  * If you wish not to import data from a specific column, select '''Do Not Import this Field'''.
  * To create a new field directly from the import page, click '''[Add New Field]''' and follow the prompts.
  * The '''Field Values''' column will show the first row of data from your CSV, allowing you to confirm your mappings.
  * If duplicate fields are detected, an error will be indicated. Choose different destinations for each mapped field to fix this.


# Select the lists to which you want to add the contacts by checking the appropriate options. You can add contacts to multiple lists as needed.
# **Prepare your CSV file**:
# Optionally, type any tags you wish to apply to the imported contacts in the '''Add Tags''' section. For better organization, consider applying a tag indicating the source of the contacts.
  - Open your CSV file and identify the column where you have the custom contact field that needs to accept multiple values.
# Under '''Import Options''', select one of the following based on whether or not you selected a list:
 
  * '''Import as Contact''' – Adds contacts to your account (only if no list is selected).
# **Edit the field values**:
  * '''Import as Excluded''' – Adds contacts to your Exclusion List (only if no list is selected).
  - In the identified column, you will need to format the values correctly. For each entry that contains multiple values, insert double bars (||) between each value.  
  * '''Import as Active Contact''' – Adds contacts to the selected list(s).
    - For instance, if your contact's favorite desserts are Ice Cream, Cookies, and Cake, format it as:
  * '''Import as Unsubscribed Contact''' – Adds contacts but with an "Unsubscribed" status for the selected list(s).
      '''Ice Cream||Cookies||Cake'''
  * '''Import as Excluded Email Address''' – Adds contacts to the Exclusion List (if lists are selected).
    - Note that you do not need to add spaces surrounding the double bars; a space will be automatically added between each value when the contact is imported.
# Optionally, check the '''Update Existing Contacts''' box to merge any matching email addresses or exact phone numbers with existing contacts in your account. Note: Phone-only contacts must be enabled to use phone numbers as unique identifiers.
    
# The '''Advanced Options''' feature allows you to adjust additional settings:
# **Import your CSV file**:
  * To manage webhook triggers, choose between turning them off or triggering specific actions upon contact import.
  - Once you have formatted your CSV file correctly, you can proceed to import it into your ActiveCampaign account by following the appropriate import process.
   * To control automation triggers, you may decide to allow or disallow contacts from entering automations they could trigger during the import.
  * Field options for new custom fields can also be created during import, depending on whether or not the values in your CSV match existing options.
# Finally, when you have configured all necessary settings, click the '''Import Now''' button.


The time taken to complete the contact import process will depend on the size of the CSV file you are importing.
== Configuration options and settings ==


=== Configuration Options and Settings ===
When preparing to import contacts, pay attention to the following '''configuration options''':
When importing contacts into ActiveCampaign, several configuration options allow you to customize the process:


* '''Import as Contact''' - This option adds the newly imported contacts to your main contact list.
* '''Custom Contact Fields''': Make sure you have the appropriate custom fields set up in ActiveCampaign to accept multiple values.
* '''Import as Excluded''' - This allows you to automatically exclude certain contacts from your marketing efforts.
* '''CSV Format''': The CSV must adhere to the proper formatting standards outlined in your account settings.
* '''Import as Active Contact''' & '''Import as Unsubscribed Contact''' - These options dictate the status of contacts with respect to the list they’re being added to.
* '''Update Existing Contacts''' - Enabling this allows any new data from the import to overwrite existing contact data.
* '''Trigger Webhooks''' - Control whether webhooks are activated during the import process.
* '''Trigger Automations''' - Allows you to define if imported contacts will enter any active automations that they are eligible for.
* '''Create Field Options''' - This toggle allows for the creation of new options in custom fields during the import process.


=== Best Practices and Tips ===
== Best practices and tips ==
- Before importing, ensure that your CSV file is correctly formatted and adheres to the necessary guidelines. For tips on preparing your CSV file, consult "How to prepare your CSV file for importing contacts."
- Each contact must have a unique email or phone number to avoid duplicates, as only the first instance will be imported.
- Apply tags for organization, enabling you to segment your contacts more effectively later on.
- Be clear on the implications of the '''Update Existing Contacts''' option, as it may change existing data if checked.


=== Troubleshooting Section ===
* Ensure your CSV file does not contain unnecessary spaces or characters that can disrupt the import process.
If you encounter issues during the importing process, consider the following troubleshooting tips:
* Always back up your contact information before proceeding with an import to avoid any loss of data.
- Ensure your CSV file is saved correctly as a CSV format and manually check for any formatting errors.
* Familiarize yourself with the ActiveCampaign documentation on preparing your CSV file to enhance efficiency; you can find more information here: [https://help.activecampaign.com/hc/en-us/articles/360006760900-How-to-prepare-your-CSV-file-for-importing-contacts-in-ActiveCampaign#make-your-csv-file-as-small-as-possible].
- Verify that all contacts have unique email addresses or phone numbers; duplicates will be ignored beyond the first instance.
- If you encounter mapping errors, check for duplicate fields and confirm that each field is mapped correctly.
- For any technical issues that cannot be resolved, consult the ActiveCampaign support documentation or contact support for assistance.


=== Related Features ===
== Troubleshooting ==
For further information and extended functionalities related to contacts, you may refer to the following features:
* [[Contacts]] - General management features for your contacts.
* [[Tags]] - Learn about tagging and segmenting your contacts.
* [[Automation]] - Explore how to automate your marketing processes after importing contacts.


=== FAQ ===
If you encounter issues during the import process, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
'''Q1: Can I import contacts without an email address or phone number?'''
A1: No, each contact in your CSV must have either an email address or a phone number.


'''Q2: What happens if multiple contacts share the same email address?'''
* Check that the CSV is formatted correctly with double bars (||) between multiple values.
A2: Only the first instance of the contact will be imported; others will be skipped.
* Ensure that the custom fields in your ActiveCampaign account match the columns specified in your CSV file.
* Look for any error messages during the import process, as they can provide specific cues about what may have gone wrong.


'''Q3: Can I create a new list during the import process?'''
== FAQ ==
A3: No, you must create a list beforehand if you want to assign contacts to it during the import.


'''Q4: How do I know if my contacts have been imported successfully?'''
* '''What types of custom fields can accept multiple values?'''
A4: After completing the import process, you can view your import results to check for any errors or confirmations.
  * Custom fields created as multi-select have the ability to accept multiple values.


'''Q5: Can I import tags during the contact import?'''
* '''Do I need to use any specific formatting for my CSV file?'''
A5: Yes, you can apply tags to contacts during the import process.
  * Yes, ensure to place double bars (||) between multiple values for the same field without additional spaces.


'''Q6: What file formats are supported for importing contacts?'''
* '''Can I import contacts without custom fields?'''
A6: The import tool only works with CSV file formats. Ensure your file is saved as a CSV before importing.
  * Yes, but this guide specifically addresses importing contacts with multiple values in custom fields.


'''Q7: Can I prevent imported contacts from triggering automations?'''
* '''What should I do if my import doesn't seem to work?'''
A7: Yes, you can choose not to trigger automations during the import process in the Advanced Options section.
  * Double-check your CSV formatting and ensure the field names match those defined in your ActiveCampaign account.


By following these guidelines and best practices, you can ensure a smooth and effective import of contacts into your ActiveCampaign account.
* '''How can I verify if my contacts were imported correctly?'''
  * After the import process, navigate back to the '''Contacts''' section to review if the data appears as expected.
 
* '''Is there a limit to the number of values I can input for custom fields?'''
  * While there isn't a strict limit for the number of values, it is best practice to keep it manageable for usability.
 
* '''What happens if I incorrectly format the CSV?'''
  * Incorrect formatting can lead to failed imports or mixed-up data; it's advisable to carefully review and test with a smaller batch first.
 
This article outlines how to import contacts with multiple values for custom fields, which can significantly enhance how you manage your contact information in ActiveCampaign. For additional resources, always refer to the official documentation and support articles provided by ActiveCampaign.
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Revision as of 13:21, 3 November 2025

```mediawiki Navigation: Main_Page > Contacts > import contacts

How do I import contacts with multiple values for a contact field?

Importing contacts into ActiveCampaign is a fundamental feature that allows users to manage their contact database efficiently. One particularly useful aspect of this functionality is the ability to import contacts with multiple values for a single custom contact field. This is especially relevant in scenarios where you've collected data using a multi-select field, allowing for greater granularity in your contact information.

This article will guide you through the process of importing contacts with multiple values, ensuring you can leverage all the features that ActiveCampaign has to offer.

How to access this feature

To access the contact import feature within ActiveCampaign, you need to be logged into your account. Once logged in, navigate to the Contacts section from the main dashboard. From there, you can start the import process by selecting the relevant options that allow you to upload your CSV file containing the contact information.

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these steps to import contacts with multiple values for a contact field:

  1. **Prepare your CSV file**:
  - Open your CSV file and identify the column where you have the custom contact field that needs to accept multiple values.
  1. **Edit the field values**:
  - In the identified column, you will need to format the values correctly. For each entry that contains multiple values, insert double bars (||) between each value. 
    - For instance, if your contact's favorite desserts are Ice Cream, Cookies, and Cake, format it as: 
      Ice Cream||Cookies||Cake
    - Note that you do not need to add spaces surrounding the double bars; a space will be automatically added between each value when the contact is imported.
  1. **Import your CSV file**:
  - Once you have formatted your CSV file correctly, you can proceed to import it into your ActiveCampaign account by following the appropriate import process.

Configuration options and settings

When preparing to import contacts, pay attention to the following configuration options:

  • Custom Contact Fields: Make sure you have the appropriate custom fields set up in ActiveCampaign to accept multiple values.
  • CSV Format: The CSV must adhere to the proper formatting standards outlined in your account settings.

Best practices and tips

  • Ensure your CSV file does not contain unnecessary spaces or characters that can disrupt the import process.
  • Always back up your contact information before proceeding with an import to avoid any loss of data.
  • Familiarize yourself with the ActiveCampaign documentation on preparing your CSV file to enhance efficiency; you can find more information here: [1].

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues during the import process, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Check that the CSV is formatted correctly with double bars (||) between multiple values.
  • Ensure that the custom fields in your ActiveCampaign account match the columns specified in your CSV file.
  • Look for any error messages during the import process, as they can provide specific cues about what may have gone wrong.

FAQ

  • What types of custom fields can accept multiple values?
 * Custom fields created as multi-select have the ability to accept multiple values.
  • Do I need to use any specific formatting for my CSV file?
 * Yes, ensure to place double bars (||) between multiple values for the same field without additional spaces.
  • Can I import contacts without custom fields?
 * Yes, but this guide specifically addresses importing contacts with multiple values in custom fields.
  • What should I do if my import doesn't seem to work?
 * Double-check your CSV formatting and ensure the field names match those defined in your ActiveCampaign account.
  • How can I verify if my contacts were imported correctly?
 * After the import process, navigate back to the Contacts section to review if the data appears as expected.
  • Is there a limit to the number of values I can input for custom fields?
 * While there isn't a strict limit for the number of values, it is best practice to keep it manageable for usability.
  • What happens if I incorrectly format the CSV?
 * Incorrect formatting can lead to failed imports or mixed-up data; it's advisable to carefully review and test with a smaller batch first.

This article outlines how to import contacts with multiple values for custom fields, which can significantly enhance how you manage your contact information in ActiveCampaign. For additional resources, always refer to the official documentation and support articles provided by ActiveCampaign. ```

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