Importing With The Advanced CSV Template

The standard CSV template will no longer be compatible with the Chit Chats platform starting Monday, September 2. Here is what you need to know about advanced CSV template to ensure a seamless transition.

With the introduction of line item view for all Chit Chats shipments, the advanced CSV template should be used when importing shipments. This will be the mandatory template, as the standard template will be retired Monday, September 2.

What are CSV files?

CSV (Comma-Separated Values) files are a type of text file used to store data in a table format. They are typically created using programs like Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel and are commonly used to exchange data.

CSV files contain three key components:

• Headers
• Rows
• Columns

Instead of relying on store integrations, you can use CSV files to import your shipments onto the Chit Chats platform. One of the benefits of using CSV files over store integrations is that all the information you input into the file is transferred to the platform. Some store integrations do not pass all necessary information, but with CSV files, everything you enter, including your postage preference, is imported. This means that when you import using a CSV file, all your information is ready to go on the platform, requiring only a simple review and purchase of the postage.

What is the difference between the standard and advanced CSV template?

As mentioned earlier, line item view is used for all shipment types. This means that the standard CSV template is unable to import shipments with multiple products correctly. In order to successfully import, you must use the advanced template as it has additional columns that allow the information to be imported successfully.

Find it here. 

In addition, you are able to find the template in your account by simply clicking on “Import Shipments” and “Upload file to buy postage”

The key difference between the standard and advanced CSV template is that the advanced version can import shipments with multiple items, with each row representing an item. To keep track of all products, the order_id column is mandatory and must be filled with either the order number or a unique number.

When there is more than one article in a package, the first row must include the package’s total weight, dimensions, and the recipient’s name. You can duplicate this information in subsequent rows if desired, but it is required only in the first row.

Additionally, the advanced CSV model can import more detailed information that the standard CSV cannot. For example, HS codes are required for certain destinations. The advanced CSV template includes columns to import HS codes and the Country of Origin, which are not available in the standard version. Previously, users of the original version had to input this information manually after importing.

For a step-by-step guide on how to import using the CSV template, visit our support article here. 

If you have any further questions about using the advanced CSV template, please do not hesitate to contact us. We understand that transitioning from the standard to advanced CSV template may present some challenges, but we are here to help.