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Data

What is Data Import Wizard in Salesforce?

The Data Import Wizard is a browser tool in Salesforce Setup that imports up to 50,000 records from a CSV into standard and custom objects. It can insert, update or upsert, but it cannot delete or export.

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Term Context

Category

Data

13 terms in this category

Related Terms

4

connected concepts

Glossary

66

total definitions

How does Data Import Wizard work in Salesforce?

The Data Import Wizard is accessible directly from Salesforce Setup and guides users through a step-by-step process: choose the object, upload a CSV file, map columns to fields, and start the import. It supports Accounts, Contacts, Leads, Solutions, Campaign Members, and custom objects. Duplicate management rules are enforced during import, and users can choose to insert new records, update existing ones, or upsert.

Compared to Data Loader, the Import Wizard trades power for simplicity. It lacks command-line automation, cannot handle deletes or exports, and caps at 50,000 records per operation. However, it requires no installation, works on any OS, and is accessible to admins and business users without technical training. For recurring large-scale data operations or complex field mappings, Data Loader or third-party ETL tools are better choices. Clientell AI's data operations module can handle both simple imports and complex multi-object migrations from a single interface.

Questions people ask

How many records can the Data Import Wizard import?

Up to 50,000 records per import. It handles Accounts, Contacts, Leads, Solutions, Campaign Members and custom objects.

Where is the Data Import Wizard in Salesforce?

In Setup, search for Data Import Wizard and choose Launch Wizard. Pick the object, upload the CSV, map the columns and start the import.

Should I use the Data Import Wizard or Data Loader?

Use the wizard for one-time imports under 50,000 records. Use Data Loader for deletes, exports, scheduled jobs and larger volumes.

Why does the wizard let duplicates through?

It checks matches one row at a time, so duplicates inside the same file can pass. Remove them from the CSV first and match on a unique field such as email.

Can the Data Import Wizard delete records?

No. It cannot delete or export records. It only inserts, updates or upserts.

Related Salesforce Terms

4 terms

Data Loader

Data

Data Loader is a Salesforce desktop application for bulk importing, exporting, updating, deleting, and upserting large volumes of records.

Custom Object

Data

A Custom Object is a user-defined database table in Salesforce that stores data specific to your organization's unique business needs.

Custom Field

Data

A Custom Field is a user-defined field added to a standard or custom object in Salesforce to capture data not covered by out-of-the-box fields.

Validation Rule

Data

A Validation Rule is a formula-based check in Salesforce that prevents users from saving a record if the data does not meet specified criteria.

What should I read next?

Data Loader vs Import WizardSalesforce Data Operations

More in Data

View all →

Data Loader

Data Loader is a Salesforce desktop application for bulk importing, exporting, updating, deleting, and upserting large volumes of records.

Custom Object

A Custom Object is a user-defined database table in Salesforce that stores data specific to your organization's unique business needs.

Custom Field

A Custom Field is a user-defined field added to a standard or custom object in Salesforce to capture data not covered by out-of-the-box fields.

Validation Rule

A Validation Rule is a formula-based check in Salesforce that prevents users from saving a record if the data does not meet specified criteria.

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