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How to Import Data from a CSV or Excel File into Matrak

Easily upload and manage bulk data in Matrak using the new Import Page—supports Excel/CSV files, error checks, and flexible settings.

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Written by Becki Sinclair
Updated over 2 weeks ago

What’s New – 10th June Update

We’re excited to introduce the new and improved Import Page! This update makes bulk data uploads into Matrak faster, smoother, and more flexible than ever.

  • Progress Persistence: Your uploaded files now stay put—even if you navigate away or close the tab. No more waiting on the page while your upload processes in the background.

  • New “Import” Button Locations

    • You can now launch the import tool from:

      • The left navigation bar

      • The filter bar on the Custom Report page

  • Multiple File Uploads – Upload several documents at once.

  • Global Import Settings: A new Settings button lets you customize how your data is imported:

    • Overwrite existing data for matching values

    • Use US date format (MM/DD/YYYY)

    • Always review and approve results before importing


In just a few simple steps, you can now upload data from your Excel spreadsheet or internal software into Matrak. This feature is especially useful for updating bulk records quickly and efficiently. Read on to learn more!

How to set up your file correctly

In order for Matrak to process your data upload, you need to make sure your file is set up correctly - the minimum columns required are the material 'ID' and 'Record Type' columns.

You can also add Qty and Suffix columns which is super handy for bulk updates, as well as Description columns and Linked columns.

Note: To ensure the upload works, your file must include 'ID' and 'Record Type' columns. You can use this basic Excel file template with pre-populated ID and Record Type column headings linked at the bottom of this article.


Below, is an example project where a company is updating the status of their materials from 'Not started' to 'Manufacturing', and also linking these materials to a stillage.


How to format dates from files

When importing Excel (.xlsx) files into Matrak we support most date format. To format your dates:

1. Right click the column header
2. Select format cells
​3. Choose a date format

Tip: Matrak supports most date formats in your reports, allowing you to upload and manage your data, regardless of the date format used.

Please be aware that if you're dates are not written in a correct date format you wont be able to upload your data until they are correctly formatted.

Examples of acceptable date formats:

  • ISO 8601 (International Standard)

    • YYYY-MM-DD (e.g., 2024-06-19)

  • Common European Formats

    • DD-MM-YYYY (e.g., 19-06-2024)

  • Common Asian Formats

    • YYYY/MM/DD (e.g., 2024/06/19)

  • Common US Format

    • MM-DD-YYYY (e.g., 06-19-2024)

How to use the Import Page upload the data?

Great, I've set up my file, and everything looks good, now what?

1. Locate the “Import” Button on the Navigation Bar

You can now launch the import from anywhere in Matrak via the Import icon in the top nav bar. Alternatively, go to the Custom Reports page and click ‘Import’ in the toolbar.

2. Select or Drag Multiple Files

You can drag and drop one or more files into the Import Page. Or click Browse Files to select from your computer.

Currently supported: .XLSX, .XLS, and .CSV

You’ll see a progress bar for each file, so you know what’s uploaded and what’s not.

3. Preview the Information

Once you drag and drop files into this screen, you will get a detailed page for each file about

  • Number of Records Created

  • Number of Records Updated

  • Number of Records Linked

Each uploaded file will also show a real-time status:

  • Processing: The file is being analysed

  • Needs Review: Issues were found and need your confirmation

  • Ready to Import: No issues found—file is ready for action

A download button allows you to download the generated file and see the results

A remove button allows you to remove the file from the import list of documents

4. Set Import Preferences

Click the Settings button to adjust global import behaviour:

  • Toggle overwrite matching values

  • Choose to use US date format

  • Enable or disable manual review and approval before importing

This ensures consistency and control over all import actions.



4. Import the data

Once everything confirm, click import all button and you're good to go.


How to Fix Errors During File Upload


Sometimes, you may run into errors when uploading your file to Matrak. Don’t worry—these are usually easy to fix! If your upload contains issues, Matrak will show an on-screen error message and automatically generate a downloadable file that highlights exactly what went wrong.

  • You can download the processed output, fix errors, and re-upload the document if needed.

  • You can remove any in-progress or problematic documents.

  • You can choose to ignore specific sheets in Excel files to avoid importing irrelevant data.


✅ Next Steps to Resolve Errors

1. Review the Error Messages

  • Read the on-screen error summary.

  • Download the generated error file(s), which contain specific details about which rows failed and why.

2. Correct Your File

  • Open the downloaded file and check the highlighted errors.

  • Common issues include:

  • Missing ID or Record Type columns

  • Spelling mistakes in the Status column (e.g., using Delective instead of Defective)

  • Using a Status that hasn’t been set up in your material list

3. Re-upload the Corrected File

  • Once you’ve made the necessary fixes, import the updated file again.

  • Matrak will process the file and update any rows that are now valid—no need to re-upload everything from scratch.

Pro Tips

Common Error

How to Fix It

ID column is missing

Add a valid ID column and try uploading again.

Record Type column is missing

Include a valid Record Type column to proceed.

Invalid Status value: Delective

Correct the spelling to match the valid list of statuses.

Invalid Status value: Defective

Make sure Defective is set up as a valid status in your material settings.

By following these steps, you can quickly fix any upload issues and get your data into Matrak without hassle.





Basic Excel File Template:

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