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So you've got data and a database. Now what?

Look, we get it — importing data sounds like something that should require a computer science degree, three energy drinks, and a Stack Overflow tab open at all times. It doesn't. ImportNow was built so that the whole thing takes about 60 seconds, and this guide will make sure you nail it on your first try. Let's walk through it together.

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Step 1: Connect Database

  • Select a saved connection from your connections list or add a new one on the Connections page
  • Click "Test Connection" to verify your database is reachable — if recently tested within 15 minutes it will be verified automatically
  • Select the table you want to import data into from the available tables list
Step 1 - Connect Database screenshot
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Step 2: Upload File

  • Drag and drop or click to upload a CSV, Excel (.xlsx, .xls), or JSON file — maximum file size is 10MB
  • ImportNow will validate your file against the selected table's schema and show you a Valid, Valid with warnings, or Invalid badge
  • A preview of the first 5 rows will appear so you can confirm the data looks correct before continuing
Step 2 - Upload File screenshot
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Step 3: Map Columns

  • Your file's columns appear on the left, your database table's columns appear on the right
  • Use the Auto-Map button to automatically match columns by name — it handles common variations like underscores vs spaces and common aliases
  • Manually adjust any columns that didn't map correctly using the dropdowns — use "Skip this column" for any file columns you don't want to import
Step 3 - Map Columns screenshot
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Step 4: Import

  • Review the mapping summary and click Import to begin
  • A progress indicator will show while the import runs
  • On success you'll see the total records imported — on failure you'll see the error with options to fix your mapping or start over
Step 4 - Import screenshot

Things that might trip you up

These are the most common issues users run into — and exactly how to fix them

Connection Refused

Your database is not reachable. Check that your host, port, and credentials are correct and that your database server is running.

Invalid File Type

Only CSV, Excel, and flat JSON array files are supported. Make sure your file ends in .csv, .xlsx, .xls, or .json.

Nested JSON Not Supported

Your JSON file contains nested objects or arrays. Flatten your data so every field is a simple value.

Column Type Mismatch

A value in your file doesn't match the expected data type of the database column. Check your file for incorrect values in that column.

Required Field Empty

A column marked as NOT NULL in your database has empty values in your file. Either fill in the missing values or enable Allow Empty Values in Settings.

0 Records Imported

All rows failed validation. Check the error details and fix your mapping or file data before retrying.