CSV import overview

CSV import is a feature in Sage Intacct that enables you to upload data using comma-separated values (CSV) files. It provides a structured way to add or update records across company setup and application areas.

CSV import uses predefined templates and validation rules to ensure that imported data aligns with your company configuration and Intacct business logic.

How CSV import works

Download a template, Add your data, Save as CSV, Import into Intacct, Resolve errors.

CSV import follows a defined process:

  1. Download a template that matches the type of data you want to import. Templates reflect your company configuration and can include dimensions and custom fields.

  2. Add data to the template, following the required formatting and field definitions.

  3. Save the file as a CSV file.

  4. Upload the CSV file from the import page and submit the import.

  5. Review the confirmation page and any error details to verify results and identify issues.

Templates and data structure

CSV import is built around templates, which define exactly how your data needs to be structured before you upload it.

You can download templates from the Company Setup Checklist or directly from application pages. Because your company configuration can change over time, it’s a good idea to download a fresh template before each import to make sure you’re working with the latest structure.

Each template includes header rows that map directly to Intacct fields.

  • Header rows define the fields that map to Intacct and must not be changed.

  • Header descriptions explain the field requirements such as data type, length, and valid values.

As you prepare your file, your data needs to match both the template definitions and the business rules enforced by Intacct. If it doesn’t, the import may fail or return errors. [CSV import overview | PDF]

Data preparation considerations

Preparing your data carefully is one of the most important parts of a successful import.

As you fill in your CSV file, make sure every field uses the correct format and meets any required constraints. Even small inconsistencies—like mismatched formats or incorrect values—can cause errors during import.

A few key things to keep in mind:

  • Header names must match the template exactly.

  • Any referenced records (like customers or vendors) need to already exist in Intacct.

  • Your CSV formatting should be consistent, including how you handle commas and text fields.

Also be aware that blank values typically overwrite existing data in those fields. This can be helpful, but it can also lead to unintended data changes if you’re not expecting it.

Finally, the order of your imports can matter. If your data has dependencies—for example, transactions that rely on existing records—you’ll need to import the supporting data first before importing anything that depends on it.

Import results and error handling

After you submit an import, Intacct gives you a few ways to review what happened and identify any issues.

  • The confirmation page shows how many records were processed and gives you access to any records that failed.

  • You’ll also receive an email with more detailed error information, including codes and descriptions to help you understand what went wrong.

Errors can happen for a variety of reasons, such as not valid field values, duplicate records, or missing dependencies.

When you’re troubleshooting, it’s often best to start with the first error in a record—fixing that can sometimes resolve additional related issues at the same time.

By reviewing results carefully and resolving errors step by step, you can quickly correct problems and rerun the import with better results

Regional availability

CSV imports are generally available in the following regions:

  • All regions