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Troubleshooting Bulk Imports Via CSV in Stack

Encountering issues while importing contacts through a CSV file in Stack? This guide will help you understand and resolve common errors, ensuring your bulk import process is seamless and efficient.

Table of Contents​

What is Bulk Importing?​

Bulk importing allows you to quickly upload large volumes of contact data using CSV files. It's an essential tool for onboarding, lead migration, and syncing lists. However, formatting errors can hinder progress. This guide will help you address and fix those errors.

Key Benefits of a Successful CSV Import​

Understanding and mastering bulk import troubleshooting can save you time and prevent common frustrations. Here's why it's important:

  • Save time by reducing rework
  • Avoid duplicate or conflicting contact records
  • Maintain clean, validated contact data
  • Prevent import failures that disrupt workflow automation
  • Ensure accurate owner/user assignment
  • Preserve campaign personalization and tagging

CSV Import Troubleshooting Checklist​

Before importing, use this checklist to avoid common CSV errors:

  • Ensure the file contains only one sheet
  • Fill all required fields with the correct format
  • Properly format emails, phone numbers, and dates
  • Use unique Contact IDs for each row
  • Verify enumeration/dropdown values match exactly
  • Use valid Stack user emails for the Owner column
  • Select a reliable Primary Column, such as Email or Contact ID

Master Bulk Importing Error Code List​

Common Error Codes and Solutions​

  • 1001: Unknown Error

    • Stack is unable to process the file due to an unknown error. Ensure your file meets all requirements. Try re-importing after clearing your browser cache or using another browser.

  • 1002: Multiple Owners Found

    • The import file contains an Owner value that matches more than one user. Replace the owner's name with their email address in your import file, then re-import.

  • 1003: Invalid Sheet Count

    • The import file has more than one sheet. Remove additional sheets and re-import.

  • 1004: Invalid Required Property

    • A required property contains an invalid value. Update your file to match the correct format, then re-import.

  • 1005: Invalid Enumeration Option

    • A value does not match an existing option in an enumeration property. Update the value in your import file to match an existing option or add it as a custom option.

  • 1006: Invalid Contact ID

    • The Contact ID in the file does not match an existing ID. Ensure IDs are correct or do not select the update checkbox if not associating existing records.

  • 1007: File Not Found

    • Verify that the file is saved on your computer and is the correct type. Re-upload the file.

  • 1008: Failed Validation of Email

    • Ensure emails in your import file are correctly formatted (e.g., name@domain.com).

  • 1009: Empty Unique Property Value

    • Ensure each row has a value for its unique identifier. Re-import after updating.

  • 1010: Duplicate Unique Property Value

    • Choose a different column header for your primary column or fix duplicates, then re-import.

  • 1011: Duplicate Unique Property Value in File

    • Ensure unique values are not repeated within your files. Re-import after corrections.

  • 1012: Duplicate Contact ID

    • Update your file to have only one row per Contact ID with the most current information.

  • 1013: Could Not Parse Phone Number

    • Ensure phone numbers are formatted correctly, using E.164 format.

  • 1014: Could Not Parse Date

    • Ensure date values match the format selected during import.

  • 1015: Could Not Find Owner

    • Update the Owner column with the correct user name or email.

  • 1016: Ambiguous Enumeration Option

    • Ensure values match only one existing option in enumeration properties.

Frequently Asked Questions​

Q: What file type should I upload?
A: Only .csv files are accepted. Export your data as a CSV file if you're working in Excel or Google Sheets.

Q: Can I undo a bulk import?
A: While there’s no direct "undo" option, tag imported contacts during upload to filter and delete if necessary.

Q: What is the maximum file size for import?
A: The limit is 20MB or 10,000 rows—whichever comes first.

Q: How can I validate phone numbers before uploading?
A: Use spreadsheet formulas or online tools to ensure they follow the E.164 format.

Q: What should I choose as the Primary Column?
A: Use a unique identifier like Email or Contact ID that won’t repeat across multiple contacts.

Q: My CSV list is mixed; some contacts have an email or phone, and some have both. How should I proceed?
A: Use the 'secondary preference' option for a mixed CSV. The system will search for the first preference and then the second if it cannot locate the first.

Q: Some contacts have multiple emails or phone numbers. How should I proceed?
A: Split the contact into multiple entries to ensure each has a unique identifier.

For more detailed guidance on specific errors, refer to the error code list above. Happy importing!