How do I import and export products using CSV in Shopify?

Shopify allows you to import and export products in bulk using CSV (comma-separated values) files. This is especially useful for large inventories, migrating stores, or updating product details efficiently.

1. Understanding CSV Files in Shopify

A CSV file is a text file where each line represents a product (or variant), and columns represent product details such as Title, SKU, Price, Inventory, Images, and more.

• Importing CSV: Upload products into Shopify from a CSV.
• Exporting CSV: Download products from Shopify to edit or backup.
• Benefits: Manage large inventories, synchronize with other platforms, bulk-update products.

2. Download a Sample CSV File

• Go to Products > All Products > Import and click Download a sample CSV.
• The sample contains two example products with variants. Remove these before use.
• Note: Inventory column is for single-location stores. Use inventory CSV for multiple locations. International pricing columns are optional.

3. Required Columns and Formatting

• First line must contain column headers.
• Columns must be separated by commas.
• Use UTF-8 encoding with LF linefeeds.

Required Columns:

• New products: Title (and URL handle if adding variants)
• Updates: Title and URL handle

Data dependencies: Columns like SKU or Weight require Option1 name/value for variants.

Caution: Changing Option1/2/3 values recreates variant IDs and may break integrations.

4. Important Columns in a Product CSV

5. Preparing Images for CSV

• Images must be hosted on a public URL.
• Shopify supports up to 250 images per product.
• Recommended: Upload images to Shopify Files or public hosting.
• CSV does not support videos or 3D models.

6. Adding Multiple Images to a Product

1. Insert a new row for each image.
2. Copy the product handle in column A.
3. Paste the image URL in Product image URL.
4. Add alt text if needed.
5. Use Image position to order images.

7. Importing Products via CSV

1. Shopify Admin > Products > Import
2. Add your CSV file
3. Choose overwrite option if updating
4. Upload and confirm

Notes: Blank columns overwrite data; missing columns may delete variants.

8. Exporting Products via CSV

1. Shopify Admin > Products > Export
2. Select products
3. Choose CSV format
4. Click Export

9. Managing International and Metafields Data

• Use International pricing columns
• Metafields format: product.metafields.namespace.key

10. Best Practices and Cautions

• Always backup before importing
• Test with small imports
• Ensure all URLs work
• Do not remove dependent columns

✅ Result: Bulk CSV import/export lets you manage thousands of products faster, safer, and with better SEO control.