---
title: "Structured Data Import"
description: "Structured Data Import allows you to easily import bulk data into Orbit using CSV, Excel (XLSX), or XLS files."
url: "https://support.pr-4.orbit.do/en/advanced-features/structured-data-import"
locale: "en"
lastReviewed: "2025-07-10"
---

# Structured Data Import

Structured Data Import allows you to easily import bulk data into Orbit using CSV, Excel (XLSX), or XLS files.

## Overview

Structured Data Import allows you to easily import bulk data into Orbit using CSV, Excel (XLSX), or XLS files. This feature helps you efficiently create multiple Shipments in a single operation.

## Key Features

* Interactive file upload interface with preview functionality
* Smart column mapping with field validation
* Data validation and error correction capabilities
* Support for complex data structures including nested fields
* Flexible date format handling (DD.MM.YYYY for German format)

## How It Works

### 1. Upload File

Start by clicking the import button in TransportComposer. The import button is only visible, if the used TransportShape supports structured data imports.

You can upload:

* CSV files
* Excel files (.xlsx & .xls)

![Screenshot 2025-05-14 at 10.33.17](https://support.pr-4.orbit.do/images/structured-data-import/screenshot-2025-05-14-at-10-33-17.png)

*Structured Data Import button as displayed in TransportComposer*

### 2. Map Fields

The system will guide you through mapping your file's columns to the corresponding Orbit fields. The mapping interface includes:

* Automated field matching suggestions
* Preview of your data
* Ability to modify and correct mappings

### 3. Validate Data

Before final import, the system validates your data against defined rules:

* Field format validation
* Required field checks
* Business logic validation
* Address verification

### 4. Review and Import

After validation:

* Review any validation errors or warnings
* Make necessary corrections directly in the interface
* Confirm and complete the import

## Best Practices

* Ensure your CSV/Excel files have clear column headers
* Use consistent date formats (DD.MM.YYYY recommended)
* Verify required fields are populated
* For shipments with multiple loads, use numbered columns (e.g., load\_1\_type, load\_1\_count)

## Example

An Example Shipment Import can be configured via the Workbench Settings for the [TransportComposer](https://support.pr-4.orbit.do/en/core-features/transport-composer) using the “Basic Shipment” [Transport Shape](https://support.pr-4.orbit.do/en/advanced-features/transport-shape). Use the example CSV file for testing the import functionality.

[Importable Example Shipments.csv](https://www.notion.so/joinorbit/Structured-Data-Import-1ea062a5be3e80c99aa5e3ed1489035e?source=copy_link#1f2062a5be3e804d9064d63b5f548b32)

## Error Handling

If errors occur during import:

* The system will highlight problematic rows and fields
* You can correct errors directly in the interface
* Partial imports are supported - successful records will be imported while failed ones can be corrected

## Limitations

* Maximum of 10 loads per shipment in CSV format
* Timestamps are processed in UTC+1 timezone
* Shipper matching requires either an email address or shipperId