FAQ - Importing and Uploading Excel Templates

Why is my Excel upload failing or producing incorrect results?
Most upload issues occur when the file structure has been modified. Our importer is designed to read only the exact structure of the downloadable template. Any deviations such as extra columns, formulas, or additional sheets can break the mapping and cause errors or unexpected results.

Can I add my own columns to the template?
No. You must not add, remove, rename, or reorder any columns in the template. Each column is mapped directly to a specific system field. Adding custom columns shifts that mapping, which can:

• Fail validation
• Misinterpret data
• Import incorrect values into the wrong fields

Best practice: If you need additional tracking fields, maintain them outside of the upload file.

Can I use formulas in the template?
No, formulas are not supported. The upload requires static values only. Formulas can:

• Return unexpected results during import
• Break when the file is processed by the system
• Cause validation errors

Best practice: Copy and paste values before uploading (Paste Special → Values).

Can I include macros in the file?
No. Files containing macros are not supported. Macros can interfere with how the file is parsed and may prevent the upload from completing successfully.

Best practice: Save the file as a standard .xlsx without macros.

Can I add extra sheets (tabs) to the workbook?
No. The importer only reads the expected sheet(s) from the template.

Additional “working” sheets or renamed tabs can:

• Cause the system to read the wrong sheet
• Prevent the upload from recognizing required data

Best practice: Only include the original template sheet(s), unchanged.

Can I keep my own working version of the file?
Yes but do not upload it.

Recommended workflow:

1. Maintain your internal working file separately if needed
2. Copy final data (paste special - values only) into a fresh copy of the template
3. Upload only the clean template file

What happens if I change column headers?
Changing headers (even slightly) will break the import.
The system relies on exact header matching to map fields. Example:

• “Vendor Name” → Works
• “Vendor” → Will fail or map incorrectly

What file type should I use?
Use only xlsx or xltx. 

How can I ensure my file uploads correctly?
Follow this checklist before uploading:

• Use a fresh copy of the template
• Do not modify structure (columns, headers, order)
• Remove all formulas (values only)
• Delete any extra sheets
• Ensure no macros are present
• Validate all required fields are populated