---
title: "Import Data Into Related Data Set"
slug: "import-data-into-related-data-set"
updated: 2026-08-05T10:54:14Z
published: 2026-08-05T10:54:14Z
canonical: "docs.mapp.com/import-data-into-related-data-set"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.mapp.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Import Data Into Related Data Set

## Overview

This guide explains how to import data into a **Related Data Set** using CSV or XML files. It clarifies key differences between these formats and outlines the steps to ensure a smooth data import process.

## Prerequisites

1. The **data file** is in CSV or XML format and correctly structured.

For details, refer to [Structure of XML and CSV Files (Related Data)](/v1/docs/structure-of-xml-and-csv-files-related-data).
2. The **Related Data Set is already created** in the system.
3. For CSV imports, manually create columns in your related data set. See [Manage Related Data Sets](/v1/docs/manage-related-data-sets).
4. You have the necessary **permissions** to import data.

## Procedure

1. Go to *Administration > Attributes > Related Data*.
2. From the context menu next to your related data set, select **Add new Data**.
3. Enter the import details:
  - Select the file and the File Type
  - Choose the **File Type** (`CSV` or `XML`).
    - If importing a **CSV file**, enter the correct **separator character**.
4. Select Import Mode:
  - **Add:** Inserts new records without changing existing ones.
  - **Replace:** Overwrites all existing records with those from the import file.
  - **Update:** Updates records only if a matching key exists, leaving others unchanged.
  - **Update and Add:** Updates existing records and adds new ones.
5. Select **Synchronization Mode** (for Updates only):
  1. **Overwrite existing rows completely:** Replaces **all values** in a row with the new record.
  2. **Overwrite only columns from file:** Updates only the columns **included** in the file, keeping other data unchanged.
6. Choose **Error Mode**:
  - **Skip Value:** Only skips the invalid **column value**.
  - **Skip Row:** Skips the **entire row** if any value is invalid.
7. Select the correct **Encoding**. This encoding must be the same as the character encoding of the data in the import file.
8. Click **Import** and wait for confirmation. The **Related Data** overview screen will display the status.

![Table displaying related data sets with statuses marked as 'Ready'.](https://cdn.document360.io/554b9b98-6720-4d8b-9919-c7b203d72648/Images/Documentation/rd status.PNG)

## Best Practices & Recommendations

- **For CSV Imports:**
  - Always **pre-create columns** before importing.
  - Ensure column names **match exactly** (case-sensitive).
  - Use **UTF-8 encoding** to avoid character issues.
- **For XML Imports:**
  - Include a `<metadata>` section for **automatic column creation**.
  - Use **consistent data types** (`String`, `Number`, `Date`, `Boolean`).
  - Avoid **special characters** in column names.
- **General Import Tips:**
  - Use **lowercase key values** for better filtering.
  - If **automating** imports, consider using the **Mapp Engage API**. For more information, visit the [API Documentation](https://docs.mapp.com/apidocs/introduction-1).
  - Regular imports can be scheduled using **Time-based Automation**. For more details, see [​Related Data: Import Data​](https://docs.mapp.com/v1/docs/related-data-import-data).