What is the formula to enable use of categories and sub categories when importing inventory using excel?

Hi debkarst-egruben,

Thanks for joining us! I'm glad to hear you're interested in importing your inventory into QuickBooks Online so you can easily manage your products and services. I'll be happy to share more on this feature.

To import your inventory in QuickBooks Online is a pretty straightforward process. All you need to do is click on Gear icon > Import Data > Products and Services and upload your file. To ensure you're using a valid format, you can have a look at the sample excel file fist by going to Download a sample file. 

You can also enable and manage your inventory categories and sub-categories in QBO, by going through these steps.

1. Go to Sales, then Products and Services.
2. Select drop-down ▼ beside More.
3. Click on Manage categories.
4. Add your categories and sub-categories.

At this moment, categories and sub-categories for inventory are not included in the sample import file. If you want to import your inventory with those, you could perhaps explore the use of a third-party app.

Here's an article to help you find apps if you'd like: QuickBooks apps 

I hope this helps! Feel free to stop by any time if you need anything else.