# Import contacts from CSV

> Bring your customer and supplier list into Alya Books from a spreadsheet, map the columns and check the result.

Source: /help/en/contacts/import-contacts

If you already keep buyers and suppliers in Excel, Zoho Books, Tally or another system, import them in one go instead of typing each contact.

## Steps

1. Go to **Contacts** and click **Import Data**, or open **Import Data** in the sidebar and choose **Contact Import**. Both open the same dialog.
2. Download the template from the dialog if you want a ready-made file, fill it in, or use your own export. Accepted formats: CSV, JSON, XML and XLSX.
3. Upload the file. Alya Books shows your columns next to its fields; map each one. **Name** is the only required column.
4. Review the preview and start the import. Contacts are created in batches; the result shows how many succeeded and lists any batch errors.

## Columns you can map

| Field | Notes |
|---|---|
| Name | Required |
| Type | `buyer`, `seller` or `both`; anything else becomes buyer |
| TRN | 15 digits; for a Country Code other than `AE`, the customer's VAT number in any format |
| Trading Name, Contact Person, Email, Phone | Optional |
| Street, City, Emirate, Postal Code, Country Code | Country defaults to `AE` |
| Peppol ID | For example `0235:1002345678` (the 10-digit TIN; a 15-digit TRN is converted), or a buyer abroad's own ID such as `9930:DE123456789` |
| Peppol Scheme | Only needed when the Peppol ID has no `scheme:` prefix. Defaults to `0235` in the UAE; a customer abroad with a Peppol ID needs it (for example `9930`), or the row is skipped |
| Payment Terms (days) | Whole number |

## Good to know

- The import does not check for duplicates. Import a clean list, or delete duplicates afterwards from the list.
- Arabic names, default currency and notes are not import columns; add them by editing the contact.
- You need the import permission (owners, admins and accountants have it).
- Invoices exported from Zoho Books or Tally are imported from the same **Import Data** page; the live Zoho connector under **Connectors** syncs contacts continuously instead.
- Items have an identical import under **Items → Import Data**.

## Related

- [Add a company or person](/help/en/contacts/add-a-contact)
- [Add a product or service](/help/en/products/add-a-product)