Import data

Import a spreadsheet or map file into a new Bidlo page and verify the result before relying on it.
3 min read · Reviewed

Create a page from a spreadsheet or map file, then inspect a small sample before using the imported records in team work.

Prepare the file

For a spreadsheet:

  • use .csv or .xlsx;
  • keep one header row;
  • give every column a clear name;
  • use one row per record;
  • remove totals, merged cells, and decorative headings;
  • choose the column that should identify each record.

For a map, the current import menu presents .kmz. Use a representative test file before importing a large geographic dataset.

Start the import

  1. Select New in the workspace header.
  2. Select Import.
  3. Choose Spreadsheet for .csv or .xlsx, or Map for .kmz.
  4. Select the file from your computer.
  5. Review the preview before continuing.

Review the field mapping

For each source column, confirm the destination name and field type. Create a field when the information should become part of the new collection; ignore a column when it should not be imported.

Pay particular attention to:

  • the title or name field;
  • dates and time zones;
  • numbers, currency, and percentages;
  • addresses or coordinates;
  • repeated categories that should use consistent selectable values;
  • identifiers with leading zeroes.

Do not map a column to an existing field only because the names look similar.

Confirm that the meaning and field type match.

Verify the imported result

  1. Finish the import and wait for the new page to open.
  2. Compare several records with the source file, including the first and last rows.
  3. Check names, dates, numbers, locations, and blank values.
  4. Confirm the record count is plausible.
  5. Open one record to make sure its fields were created as intended.

Use a small disposable file first when duplicate handling, relations, or rollback behavior matters. Do not repeat a production import to troubleshoot it until you know whether the first attempt created records.

If the import fails

  • Save the spreadsheet as a clean .csv and try the small sample again.
  • Remove formulas, merged cells, and unsupported formatting.
  • Confirm that the file is not password-protected.
  • For maps, confirm that the file contains usable geographic features.
  • Record the visible error and file type before contacting support.

FAQs

Why should I review a small sample before using imported records?

A sample helps you catch incorrect field mappings, date formats, duplicates, and missing values before the imported data becomes part of team work.

What should I do if an imported record is not visible?

Check the current view’s filters before importing again. The record may exist without matching the view.