Import and Export Contacts
Platica lets you upload contacts in bulk from external files and download your full database. These tools are essential when you're migrating from another CRM, integrating data from external campaigns, or just need a backup of your information.
Import Contacts
The import process is done in 3 steps guided by an assistant.
Step 1: Upload File
Click the ⋮ (three dots) menu in the Contacts toolbar.
Select "Import contacts".
Drag a file to the upload area or click "click to select".
Accepted formats:
| Format | Description |
|---|---|
| CSV | Comma-separated text file |
| XLSX | Excel spreadsheet |
| JSON | Structured data format |
File limit: The maximum allowed size is 50 MB. If your file is bigger, split it into smaller parts before importing.
Step 2: Column Mapping
Once the file is uploaded, Platica shows the detected columns and lets you link them to the fields in your database.
Your data travels with you: Each column from your Excel or CSV file can be brought into Platica by mapping it to the field you choose. For example, if your file has a column called "Lead," you can assign it to any existing field, or create a new Custom Field called "Lead" right there so that information is stored exactly how you need it.
How mapping works:
- Auto-detected columns: The system automatically identifies common columns (name → Name, phoneNumber → Phone). These are marked with the "Auto" badge.
- Manual mapping: For columns that aren't recognized automatically, pick the destination field in the dropdown.
- Skip mapping: If a column from the file isn't relevant, leave it as "-- Don't map --" and it will be ignored during the import.
- Create custom field: If you need a field that doesn't exist, click "+ Create new custom field" directly from this screen.
The bottom indicator shows the progress: "X of Y columns mapped".
Step 3: Preview and Confirmation
Before running the import, Platica shows you a summary:
| Data | Description |
|---|---|
| Total records | Number of contacts that will be imported |
| Mapped fields | How many file columns were linked to fields |
| Tags | Tags that will be applied to every imported contact |
On this screen you can:
- Add tags to every imported contact (search existing ones or create new)
- Review the preview of the first 10 records to verify the data was mapped correctly
- Click "Import" to run the upload
Duplicates: Existing contacts (identified by phone number) will be updated with the new information. Contacts that don't already exist will be created. This means you can import the same file twice without creating duplicates.
Download Contacts
There are two ways to download contacts:
Download All Contacts
- Click the ⋮ (three dots) menu in the toolbar
- Select "Download all contacts"
- The system will generate a file with your entire database
Download Selected Contacts
- Select the contacts you want to download using the checkboxes
- Click "Actions (N)" → "Download"
- Only the selected contacts will be downloaded
Combine filters with selective downloads to export specific segments of your database. For example, filter by platform "WhatsApp" and download only those contacts.