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M
Mzbl
May 31, 2023
Question

Import with commas corrupts data

  • May 31, 2023
  • 1 reply
  • 0 views

I’m using import to upload inventory. I’m discovering that commas in certain fields (eg cost formatted as $1,100) cause the data to be corrupted. This is the case if I choose to import either via Google Sheets or via CSV. Please help

1 reply

F
FateCandylaneT
May 31, 2023

Thanks for reaching out to us here in the Community, Mzbl. Let me help you import and correct the formatting styles when entering amounts from a CSV file.

 

When importing inventories using Google Sheets or CSV files in QuickBooks Online, this will identify the amounts as two different values if they're separated by a comma in one single field. You'll need to ensure the comma separator for the amounts entered from the text fields aren't indicated to refrain your file from errors.

 

Additionally, you can manually turn off the comma separator from the Excel format. This way, commas on the amounts field will not appear when entering them. To guide you how, please refer to the steps below.

 

Here's how:

     1. Open the file you modified and select the cell you want to format. (Example: $1,100)

     2. From the Home tab, click the Dialog Box Launcher next to Number.

 

 

     3. From the Format Cells window, select Number on the Category lists.

     4. Uncheck the Use 1000 Separator (,) checkbox to hide the thousands separator.

     5. Once done, select OK.

 

 

Furthermore, you'll want to check out this reference to learn more about some of the frequently asked questions when importing data: Common questions about importing data to QuickBooks Online.

 

Let us know in the comments below if you have additional questions or other QuickBooks concerns. We'll gladly have you back here and assist you further. Keep safe!

M
MzblAuthor
May 31, 2023

Thank you for your reply! Unfortunately the commas are also present in other fields, e.g. the Product Name. I'm curious about the article that lists comma as a valid character (second in the list). https://quickbooks.intuit.com/learn-support/en-us/help-article/account-management/acceptable-characters-quickbooks-online/L3CiHlD9J_US_en_US Can you clarify ? 

S
SarahannC
May 31, 2023

Thanks for returning to this thread. Commas shouldn't lead to errors when importing inventory items in QuickBooks Online, Mzbl. I also like to clarify the information provided in the article you added. 

 

The comma:, is recognized as one of the approved special characters for creating lists. The article is not only intended for importing data like inventory. The list of accepted characters, including comma: , is also entering information inside QuickBooks. As stated in the article, you can use those accepted characters to successfully input the company name, Customers, Vendors, Products and Services, or the Chart of Accounts.

 

Here's a sample screenshot:

 

Going back to your original concern, wouldn't you mind adding the specific error you got during the import process? That way we can correct and fix this behavior in no time. You can also provide a screenshot. Just make sure to cover all the important details.

 

Additionally, you can download CSV file, Excel file and Google Sheet sample for reference when mapping data in the Excel before importing them in the program. Here's how:

 

  1. Go to the Gear icon.
  2. Select Import data.
  3. Pick Product and Services.
  4. Click the Download a sample file or Preview a sample link.

 

Here's an article for additional guidance: Import products and services into QuickBooks Online. This link provides information about importing lists in QuickBooks.

 

Visit again if you have more concerns about the process. I'm here together with my colleague to help you further. Take care and stay safe.

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