What this page is for
This page takes one uploaded file through the import: you tell CityLights which column holds which field, it checks every row without saving anything, and then imports the good rows. Afterwards it shows what happened and lets you undo the most recent import.
Who can use it
- Import data from spreadsheets is needed (by default Admin).
How to match the columns
- For each field, choose the column of your file that holds it. Columns whose names match are already chosen.
- Fields marked with a star are required. Choose Not in my file for anything else you don't have.
- Select Check the rows.
How to check and import
- Read the summary: how many rows will be imported, how many are already in the system, and how many have problems.
- Look through the listed problems and the preview of the first 100 rows. To fix problems, correct the file and upload it again, or change the column matching above.
- Select Import N rows. Large files are imported in short steps; keep the page open until it says Imported.
How to undo an import
On the most recent finished import, select Undo this import. Everything it created is deleted. Properties that are now used by bookings or expenses are kept and listed.
Fields and columns
| Field or column | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Field selectors | Which column of your file holds each field. Hints under a field explain accepted values. |
| Row | The row number in your spreadsheet (the header is row 1). |
| Result | OK (will be imported), Already in the system (skipped), or the problem found. |
| Imported, Skipped (already there), Skipped (problems) | The final counts. |
Statuses and automation
- Checking is a dry run: nothing is saved until you select Import.
- Imported records go through the same rules as typed ones. For bookings: nights are worked out, net is gross minus fee when empty, platforms that collect payment mark the booking paid, and long stays are split by month when the Bookings setting Split stays that cross a month end is ticked.
- A booking is "already in the system" when the property has a booking with the same reference, or with the same dates and guest name.
- A property is "already in the system" when one has the same name.
- Every imported record appears in the change history.
Settings that change this page
- Booking platforms are matched against Master data.
FAQs
Can I continue an import after closing the page? Yes. Open it from Data import and select Continue: it carries on where it stopped.
Why can't I undo an older import? Only the most recent finished import can be undone, so undoing never breaks records that later imports rely on.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | What to do |
|---|---|
| "Unknown property ..." | Use the property's exact name or code, or import properties first. |
| "Unknown platform ..." | Add the platform under Lists, or use its existing name. |
| "... is not a date." | Use 2026-07-31 or your organisation's date format. |
| "Choose the column for ..." | A required field has no column. Choose one. |