Can I import CSV files into Baselane?

Yes, you can import transactions into Baselane using a CSV file. CSV imports are available on the desktop version of Baselane and allow you to bring in historical or external transactions for bookkeeping and reporting.

In this article, we will cover

• How to download the CSV import template
• How to import a CSV file into Baselane
• CSV formatting requirements and tips
• Frequently asked questions

Download the CSV import template

Before importing your transactions, download the CSV Import Template and make a copy of the file.

Using the template helps ensure your transactions are formatted correctly and prevents import errors.

How to import a CSV file into Baselane

1. Log in to your Baselane account from a desktop browser.
    
2. Navigate to the Transactions tab in your Baselane workspace.
    
3. Select Add in the top-right corner of the page. 
   • A drop-down menu will appear.
   • Select Import transactions.
4. A window will appear with the following message: Switching from another accounting software? Quickly bring over your data using CSV Import
    
5. Select CSV Import to continue.
    
6. Upload your CSV file. You can upload one file at a time or drag and drop
    
7. If applicable, select the External account you would like the imported transactions to be associated with or keep as Manually Added.
    

8. Map the column headers from your CSV file to Baselane’s required fields.

   Required fields include:

   • Date
   • Description
   • Amount
9. Review the preview to confirm the data is mapped correctly.
    
10. Select Import Transactions to complete the upload. Once the import is complete, you will receive a confirmation email.

CSV formatting requirements and tips

To ensure a successful import, review the following formatting guidelines before uploading your file:

• Include only one header row.
   
• Do not leave required fields blank.
   
• Required columns must include:
   
  • Date (formatted as YYYY-MM-DD)
  • Description (plain text without special characters)
  • Amount (numerical values only)

Optional column mapping

• Category: If mapped, transactions will be assigned additional detail. Any unmatched categories will appear in the Notes field.
• Property: If mapped, Baselane will attempt to automatically match the transaction to an existing property. Unmatched properties will appear in the Notes field.

Frequently asked questions

Is CSV import available on mobile?

No. CSV imports are currently available only on the desktop version of Baselane.

How long does it take for transactions to import?

Most CSV imports complete in under five minutes.

Will special characters cause an import error?

Yes. Special characters may cause the import to fail. Remove any characters other than letters and numbers before uploading your file. You can edit the file using Excel (Windows) or Numbers (Mac).

Is there a template I should use?

Yes. We recommend using the CSV Import Template. Make a copy of the template, paste your transactions into it, confirm the formatting, save the file as a CSV, and then upload it to Baselane.