HubSpot Import Example Files Guide

When you prepare data for HubSpot, using official example import files helps you format records correctly, reduce errors, and save time during every upload.

This guide explains how to download, understand, and use each example file type so you can confidently import contacts, companies, deals, tickets, and more.

Why Use HubSpot Example Import Files

Official sample files are the quickest way to understand how your spreadsheet should look before you import it.

They help you:

• See the exact column structure HubSpot expects.
• Match property names and data types correctly.
• Avoid common formatting problems and import failures.
• Test a small import before uploading your full database.

If you are setting up a new portal or cleaning old data, downloading these templates should be your first step.

Where to Find HubSpot Import Example Files

You can access all standard sample files directly from the HubSpot import tool. You do not need a separate download page; the templates are available inside your account while you start a new import.

The official instructions are documented on the HubSpot Knowledge Base. You can review them any time at this HubSpot support article.

How to Download HubSpot Example Files

Use the following steps to download sample import spreadsheets from inside your account. Exact screen labels may vary slightly depending on language and subscription, but the flow remains the same.

Step 1: Open the HubSpot Import Tool

1. Sign in to your HubSpot portal.
2. In the main navigation bar, go to your settings or data tools area where imports are managed.
3. Locate the option labeled Import or Data Import & Export and open it.

This area lists previous imports and gives you options to start a new one.

Step 2: Start a New Import in HubSpot

1. Click the button to begin a new import.
2. Choose that you want to import from a file, usually a CSV or spreadsheet.
3. Select the object you plan to upload, such as contacts, companies, deals, or tickets.

You will reach a screen that offers example files for that specific object type.

Step 3: Download the Example File

1. Look for a link or button labeled Download sample file, Download example file, or similar wording.
2. Click the link. HubSpot will download a spreadsheet to your computer.
3. Open the file using your preferred spreadsheet tool, such as Excel, Google Sheets, or Numbers.

Repeat this process for each object type you plan to import so you have all relevant templates available.

Types of HubSpot Import Example Files

The HubSpot import workflow can show different sample files depending on which objects and relationships you choose. Common file types include:

• Contacts example file: Shows typical contact properties such as email, first name, last name, and phone number.
• Companies example file: Includes fields like company domain name, company name, and address details.
• Deals example file: Demonstrates deal name, pipeline, deal stage, close date, and amount columns.
• Tickets example file: Provides subject, pipeline, status, and other ticket-related properties.
• Association example files: Help you link contacts to companies, deals to companies, or tickets to contacts using unique identifiers.

HubSpot may also display example files for importing multiple objects in one operation, especially when you create associations in a single upload.

Understanding Columns in HubSpot Example Files

The downloaded spreadsheets are more than simple samples. They show how each column should be named and what type of data belongs in each field.

Column Headers and Property Names in HubSpot

Each column header represents a property in your database. Typical details you will see include:

• The property name exactly as it appears in HubSpot.
• Columns that are strongly recommended for successful imports, such as email for contacts or company domain name for companies.
• Examples of valid values, like dates, numbers, and text formats.

If you have custom properties, they will not appear automatically in the generic sample file, but the structure shows you how to add extra columns that match your custom property names.

Required and Recommended Fields

Some properties are especially important for smooth imports. When reviewing the example files, pay attention to:

• Columns that act as unique identifiers (for example, email or company domain name).
• Fields needed for key features like lifecycle stages or pipeline stages.
• Properties that help segment data after import, such as country, industry, or lifecycle stage.

Following the sample structure ensures your imported records can be searched, filtered, and reported on correctly.

How to Customize HubSpot Example Files Before Import

After downloading a template, you can customize it for your own data set while still following the structure that HubSpot expects.

Basic Customization Steps in HubSpot Templates

1. Open the example spreadsheet.
2. Review each column header and keep the ones you plan to use.
3. Delete columns that are not relevant to your data, if they are not required.
4. Add new columns that match any custom properties you created in your portal.
5. Fill in your own data, replacing the sample rows.

Always keep at least one column that can uniquely identify each record. This helps with updates, deduplication, and associations between different objects in HubSpot.

Tips to Avoid Import Errors in HubSpot

Use these practical tips while working with the templates:

• Save your files as CSV when you are finished editing.
• Check for merged cells and remove them so each value has its own cell.
• Verify date formats match your account settings.
• Ensure picklist values, like lifecycle stage or status, match allowed options.
• Test a small sample import before uploading your full database.

These simple checks reduce the chance that HubSpot will reject rows or create incomplete records.

Importing Your Customized File into HubSpot

Once your spreadsheet is ready, you can upload it using the same import wizard where you downloaded the example file.

1. Return to the import area inside HubSpot.
2. Start a new file import and upload your edited CSV.
3. Confirm the object type, such as contacts or deals.
4. Map each column from your file to the correct property in HubSpot.
5. Review any warnings on the mapping screen and fix mismatches.
6. Run the import and monitor the results summary.

If you spot issues after the import finishes, you can correct the spreadsheet and run another upload, or use updates based on unique identifiers.

When to Use Multiple HubSpot Example Files

Some projects require importing more than one object at once. For example, you might need to load contacts, companies, and the relationships between them.

In these cases, HubSpot may offer multiple templates, such as:

• One file for contacts.
• One file for companies.
• One file that connects contacts and companies using identifiers.

Follow the on-screen guidance to use each sample. The order and structure allow HubSpot to create objects and link them accurately during the import process.

Getting Extra Help With HubSpot Data Imports

If you want expert support setting up data, optimizing objects, or planning complex migrations, you can work with specialized partners. For implementation, automation, and data strategy support, visit Consultevo and explore their services.

For official documentation, best practices, and updates to the import flow, always review the latest guidance on the HubSpot Knowledge Base import example file page.

Next Steps for Cleaner HubSpot Imports

Using the built-in example files ensures your spreadsheets follow the same structure that HubSpot uses internally. Download the templates, customize them carefully, and test small batches before running full imports. This workflow will keep your database clean and make future automation, reporting, and segmentation much easier.

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