This section describes general tips that help you ensure the accuracy of import files. You should also carefully review the instructions for each type of import file, as there may be more stringent requirements for some files. For more information, see the requirements for specific import templates in the Import File Layouts section.
Note:You must use Microsoft Excel 2003 or later to create and modify import files.
Follow these tips to help ensure a successful import:
As a general rule, your data should not include double spaces, apostrophes [‘], double quotes [“], commas [,] or ampersands [&]. In a Hierarchy Import file, the following additional characters are not allowed: [%, #, =, +, @, !, *, $]. In a Chart of Accounts Import file, semicolons [;] are also not allowed.
Import files must be formatted as tab-delimited text files (Unicode text). For information about how to save a file in tab-delimited format, see Configuring an Import File.
Blank fields should be truly blank. A space in an otherwise empty field or at the end of the data in a field will cause the import to fail.
Blank rows in the file or at the end of the file will also cause the import to fail. You can verify that there are no blank rows in the Excel file by using the Ctrl+End key combination to move to the last row. If there are blank rows, delete them, save the file, and close Excel.
The column headers must be present in the first row of the import file, exactly the way they appear in the template.
Make sure your import files are not password-protected.
All import files selected for upload to PaymentNet will be scanned for viruses. If a virus is detected, the import will fail.
For all import files except the Account Import, phone numbers should be a series of 10 digits, with no formatting or embedded special characters (########## format). Phone numbers in the Account Import file should be a series of 12 digits with hyphens included (###-###-#### format).