With Assist you can import several products at once using a CSV file, which is a quick and efficient way to get your product list set up. Follow this guide for a trouble-free import.
How to go about it
Step 1: Prepare your file
You need to use a CSV file to upload products to Assist. Export one from your accounting system, for example.
Download and use our template file to make sure the format is right. It is attached at the very bottom of this article. ⬇️
Step 2: Format the file correctly
Make sure the columns in the CSV file match the requirements. See the table below for details of each column:
Column in the CSV | Field name | Format / example |
Column A | Produktkode | A unique code for each product. It can contain both numbers and letters. Example: |
Column B | Produktnavn | A short, descriptive name for the product. Example: |
Column C | Standardpris | Base price as a whole number. Use a comma as the decimal separator. Example: |
Column D | Produktgruppe | The category or group the product belongs to. It must already exist in Assist. Example: |
Column E | Notat | Additional information or comments. Example: |
Tip: Make sure the product groups in the file already exist in Assist to avoid errors.
Checklist before you continue:
Do all the products have unique product codes? Check that no product code is repeated in the file.
Do the product groups match existing groups in Assist? Make sure every group in the product group column has already been created in Assist.
Are the decimals formatted correctly with a comma? Use a comma (,) as the decimal separator, not a full stop (.).
The first row of the file is used to recognise the correct columns. The names must be exactly the same as in the template file.
Step 3: Save the file in the right format
Assist can read files saved as CSV with UTF-8 encoding.
In Excel, go to "Save As" and choose "CSV UTF-8 (Comma delimited)"
Step 4: Upload the file
Go to: Settings > Import > Products.
Drag your CSV file into the field provided.
ℹ️ If you get an error message, it is most likely a problem with the column names. Double-check that you are using exactly the same names in the header row of your columns.
Step 5: Check the preview
We flag obvious errors in the file, but we cannot catch everything, so look through the preview carefully. Mistakes in an import can be time-consuming to put right, so make sure your products look correct.
Step 6: Confirm the import
Click Confirm and add to Assist to complete the import.
FAQ: common questions about product import in Assist
Here you will find answers to the most common questions and problems users run into during a product import. If you still need help, get in touch with our support team.
What does the error message "Product group does not exist" mean?
Cause: The product group given in the CSV file does not exist in Assist.
Solution: Check the list of available product groups under Administration > Product groups. Create any new groups that match your file before trying again.
Why have some of my products not been imported?
Cause: There may be errors in the CSV file. Typical problems include:
Missing values in important columns such as Produktkode or Produktnavn.
Formatting errors, such as using a full stop instead of a comma for decimals.
Solution: Read the error message for the specific details, correct the file and upload it again.
Can I use Excel files instead of CSV?
No, Assist only supports CSV files for import.
Solution: Export the file from Excel as CSV before uploading:
Go to File > Save As > CSV.
Check that the file uses the right format before you upload it.
What do I do if the decimals look odd after import?
Cause: The decimal format may be wrong. Assist uses a comma (,) as the decimal separator.
Solution: Go back to the CSV file and replace every full stop (.) with a comma (,) in the decimals.
How do I delete products that were imported incorrectly?
Deleting is possible, but time-consuming if a lot of products are wrong.
Solution: Go to Administration > Products, find the product and choose Delete. To avoid this problem, always check the CSV file carefully before importing.
What happens if the CSV file has duplicate product codes?
Cause: Product codes must be unique. Duplicates are not imported.
Solution: Make sure every product code in the CSV file is unique.
How can I check that my file is correct before importing?
Solution: Use the preview in the import tool. It shows you how the products will be added. Make any adjustments needed in your CSV file and upload again until the preview looks right.
Can I import products without a product group?
No, every product has to be linked to an existing product group.
Solution: Make sure the column for Produktgruppe is filled in and matches an existing group in Assist.
Can I use special characters in product names or notes?
Yes, but avoid characters such as commas (,) and semicolons (;) as they can cause formatting errors in the CSV file.
What do I do if I upload the wrong products by mistake?
Solution: You have to delete the products manually, one by one, so take care. 😉
How do I create new product groups in Assist?
Go to Settings > Product groups, click Add new product group, and fill in the details.