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Before you get started
Ensure the following before importing contacts:
You have access to Audience Manager.
Your file is saved as a CSV format.
Your CSV includes at least the email address (this is what we use for the unique identifier for each contact within Audience Republic).
If importing state data, the country field must also be included for proper recognition.
You’ve created any required custom fields beforehand (only plain text, number, date, or single-select fields are supported).
Important Note: When you import data into the Audience Table, any existing contact (matched by their email address, which serves as the unique identifier) may have fields updated or retained depending on the type of information.
Fields that get overridden (if different in the CSV file):
First & last name
Phone number
Postcode, country, city, state
Date of Birth (D.O.B)
Fields that are not changed:
List subscriptions
Activity (messages sent, opened, purchases, event attendance)
Existing tags
Existing lists subscribed to
Existing custom fields
Extra Note:
If the CSV import includes new tags or custom fields, the platform will add them to the profile rather than overriding what’s already there.
Formatting Your CSV
Required fields:
Email address
Recommended optional fields:
First name / Last name
Phone number (mobile formatting guide here)
Gender, DOB, State, City, Zip/Postcode, Country
Tags, Lists
Formatting tips:
Mobile numbers must include country code. Use the format: +1 5551234567 (no brackets or dashes).
Columns that don’t match an import field should be removed.
File size must be under 100MB.
Download the CSV template for reference.
Tip: Avoid creating custom fields that duplicate existing system fields (e.g., don’t create another “Gender” field).
Importing Contacts Step-by-Step
Go to Audience Manager
Click Import Contacts
Choose Date Format (US or International)
Select:
A list to add contacts to (optional)
Any tags to apply (optional)
Upload your CSV file
Map your fields (including any valid custom fields)
Review and correct any formatting errors
Use "Delete all rows with errors" to clean the file
Click Import
Importing Custom Fields
Only plain text, number, date, or single-select fields can be imported
Multi-select fields are not supported
Map the custom field during import just like other fields
Learn more: How to use Custom Fields
Re-importing Data & Unsubscribed Contacts
Important: Re-importing an entire contact list may resubscribe fans who previously opted out.
Best Practice:
Use segments to import only new or updated contacts
Apply the filter “Subscribed to list”, export that segment, and re-import only those contacts
This ensures unsubscribed preferences are preserved and your lists remain compliant.
How to Auto-Append Country Codes
To save time reformatting mobile numbers, you can include a Country column in your CSV file. When this column is present, the importer will automatically append the correct country code to each mobile number during import.
Follow these steps when importing your file:
Next to the Mobile Number column, click the yellow warning icon.
Select “Accept for ALL cells” to apply the correct country code to every mobile number in the file.
Still need help?
Contact us at support@audiencerepublic.com