Import Clients via CSV

Learn how to bulk import clients into Billo Invoicing using CSV files. Save time when adding multiple clients at once.

Getting Started

Step 1: Download Template

  1. Go to Clients > Import Clients
  2. Click Download Template
  3. Open in Excel or Google Sheets

Step 2: Prepare Your Data

The template includes columns:

  • name: Client name (required)
  • email: Email address (required)
  • phone: Phone number (optional)
  • companyName: Company name (optional)
  • address: Street address (optional)
  • city: City (optional)
  • state: State/County (optional)
  • postalCode: Postal code (optional)
  • country: Country (optional)
  • website: Website URL (optional)
  • taxId: Tax/VAT ID (optional)
  • paymentTerms: Payment terms (optional)
  • notes: Internal notes (optional)

Step 3: Fill in Data

  • Keep header row
  • Fill required fields
  • Use consistent formatting
  • Check for errors

Importing the File

Step 1: Upload CSV

  1. Click Choose File
  2. Select your CSV file
  3. Click Upload

Step 2: Review Preview

  • Preview imported data
  • Check for errors
  • Verify formatting
  • Confirm details

Step 3: Confirm Import

  • Review summary
  • See success count
  • Note any errors
  • Complete import

Import Results

Successful Imports

  • Clients added to database
  • Ready to use immediately
  • Available in dropdowns
  • Can be edited normally

Errors and Warnings

Common Issues:

  • Missing required fields (name, email)
  • Invalid email format
  • Duplicate emails
  • Encoding problems

Error Handling:

  • Errors shown per row
  • Valid rows still imported
  • Can fix and re-import
  • No data loss

Best Practices

Data Preparation

  • Validate email addresses
  • Check for duplicates
  • Use consistent formats
  • Include all necessary data

CSV Formatting

  • Use UTF-8 encoding
  • Include header row
  • Use commas as separators
  • Quote fields with commas

After Import

  • Review imported clients
  • Check for duplicates
  • Update missing information
  • Verify addresses

Troubleshooting

Import Fails

  • Check file format (CSV)
  • Verify encoding (UTF-8)
  • Ensure header row exists
  • Check file size

Partial Import

  • Review error messages
  • Fix problematic rows
  • Re-import corrected data
  • Check for duplicates

Data Issues

  • Verify email formats
  • Check for special characters
  • Ensure consistent dates
  • Validate addresses

CSV import saves time when adding many clients!