Fix CSV Imports in GoHighLevel

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Troubleshoot CSV Imports in GoHighLevel

If you use ClickUp or other project tools to manage data before bringing it into GoHighLevel, you may occasionally run into issues with CSV uploads. This step-by-step guide explains how to troubleshoot bulk imports in GoHighLevel so your contacts load correctly and consistently.

The instructions below are based on the official bulk import behavior and common failure patterns. Follow each section in order to quickly identify and fix CSV import problems.

Before You Import into GoHighLevel

Before troubleshooting, confirm that your CSV file and browser setup meet the platform requirements. Many GoHighLevel import issues are caused by basic formatting or file constraints.

Check your CSV file format

  • Ensure the file is in .csv format, not .xlsx or .txt.
  • Verify that column headers are in the first row only.
  • Remove any extra blank rows at the top of the sheet.
  • Avoid merged cells; each field should be in its own column.

Confirm file size and row limits

Very large CSV files are more likely to time out or partially import. To reduce failures:

  • Split very large lists into multiple smaller CSV files.
  • Remove unnecessary columns or data not needed in the CRM.
  • Close other heavy browser tabs while importing into GoHighLevel.

GoHighLevel CSV Mapping Basics

Incorrect field mapping is a major cause of rejected rows. During the import process, GoHighLevel will prompt you to map each CSV column to a contact field.

Map required contact fields correctly

At minimum, each contact row should have:

  • First Name or a primary identifier.
  • Email or Phone when you plan to send campaigns.

If these are missing or mis-mapped, the affected contacts may not import properly.

Match custom fields in GoHighLevel

If your CSV has data for custom fields:

  1. Create matching custom fields inside your GoHighLevel account before importing.
  2. During mapping, select the correct custom field for each CSV column.
  3. Avoid mapping multiple CSV columns to the exact same field unless intentionally overwriting data.

Common GoHighLevel Import Errors

When an import fails or partially completes, review the specific errors. The most frequent CSV problems fall into a few categories.

Special characters and encoding issues

Some CSV files include characters that cause problems inside the system.

  • Check for emojis, unusual symbols, or non-standard punctuation in names, notes, or custom fields.
  • Remove or replace these characters with plain text equivalents.
  • When saving your CSV, use a standard UTF-8 encoding option if available.

Duplicate contact records

Imports can behave unexpectedly when duplicate identifiers are present.

  • Look for repeated email addresses within the same CSV.
  • Decide whether to update existing contacts or create new entries.
  • Use filters in your spreadsheet tool to find and clear duplicates before the GoHighLevel import.

Incorrect data types

Some fields expect specific formats:

  • Phone numbers should include country codes in a consistent format.
  • Dates should use a format your account is configured to accept (for example, YYYY-MM-DD).
  • Boolean fields (like yes/no preferences) should use values accepted by your custom field setup.

Step-by-Step: Fix a Failed GoHighLevel CSV Import

Use the following workflow whenever a bulk import does not behave as expected.

1. Review the import summary

After each bulk upload, the system provides feedback on successes and failures. Note:

  • Total rows processed.
  • Number of successful contacts created or updated.
  • Number of failed rows and any error messages shown.

2. Export or isolate failed rows

Depending on the error display, either:

  • Export a list of failed records if the interface offers it, or
  • Filter your original CSV to isolate rows with obvious formatting or missing data issues.

3. Clean data in your spreadsheet tool

Open your CSV in Excel, Google Sheets, or similar software and:

  • Fix typos in email addresses and phone numbers.
  • Remove emojis and unsupported characters.
  • Add missing required values such as name, email, or phone.
  • Ensure each column has consistent data types.

4. Re-save the CSV

When you finish cleaning:

  • Save the file again as a standard CSV (comma-separated values).
  • Confirm there is only one header row and no extra header lines lower in the sheet.
  • Close and reopen the file to confirm the structure is preserved.

5. Re-import into GoHighLevel

Return to the import tool and:

  1. Select the updated CSV.
  2. Carefully map each column to the correct field in GoHighLevel.
  3. Confirm whether you are creating new contacts or updating existing ones.
  4. Run the import and review the completion summary.

Advanced Tips for Reliable GoHighLevel Imports

To avoid recurring problems with bulk uploads, adopt these best practices when preparing lists and working with your team.

Standardize your CSV templates

Create a reusable CSV layout with fixed column names. Share this template internally so each new list aligns with your GoHighLevel mapping:

  • Keep required contact fields near the front of the file.
  • Use the same header labels each time, such as first_name, last_name, email, phone.
  • Document which columns map to custom fields.

Validate data before importing

Run quick checks on new lists:

  • Use spreadsheet formulas or filters to find blank emails or phones where they are required.
  • Spot-check date, currency, and phone formats for consistency.
  • Ensure country codes are present for international phone numbers.

Test with a small sample in GoHighLevel

Before bulk uploading a large list:

  • Import 10–20 sample rows from the same source file.
  • Verify that all fields, tags, and custom values appear correctly.
  • If the sample imports cleanly, proceed with the full CSV.

When to Use Official GoHighLevel Resources

If you continue to experience issues, compare your process with the official documentation and reach out for support when needed.

  • Review the original guide you are basing this process on at this GoHighLevel CSV troubleshooting article.
  • Capture screenshots of error messages or import summaries.
  • Contact support with details on the CSV structure, the number of rows, and exact steps you followed.

Optimize Your Workflow Around GoHighLevel

For teams that frequently import contacts from lead sources, events, or other CRMs, it helps to build a documented process that combines data prep, validation, and import steps.

You can also work with automation and CRM experts to design an import pipeline that keeps your lists clean and synchronized. For tailored help building scalable workflows around GoHighLevel, visit Consultevo and explore their implementation services.

By following the checks in this guide—file format, mapping accuracy, character cleanup, and small test imports—you can dramatically reduce failed uploads and keep your GoHighLevel account organized, accurate, and ready for campaigns.

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