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Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions

Learn how to bulk import Custom Object records via CSV in GHL Customer Care with dedupe controls, update options, and Bulk Actions tracking.

3 min read731 words8 explained imagesUpdated Tue, 3 Mar at 4:03 AM
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  1. How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import
  2. Frequently Asked Questions
  3. Related Articles

Bulk importing Custom Object records lets you quickly onboard large datasets while maintaining clean, conflict-free records. With create/update options, unique-field dedupe controls, and detailed import reporting, teams can scale Custom Object setup without losing accuracy. A dedicated Bulk Actions page adds operational control like pause, resume, and cancel so you can manage imports confidently.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What is Custom Object Bulk Import?

Custom Object Bulk Import allows you to upload a CSV file to create new Custom Object records, update existing ones, or do both in a single import. It also includes dedupe controls based on unique fields and a centralized Bulk Actions page for tracking progress and resolving issues. This makes Custom Object onboarding faster while helping prevent duplicates and import conflicts.

Key Benefits of Custom Object Bulk Import

Reliable bulk imports reduce manual work and help keep Custom Object data consistent as it grows.

  • Faster Onboarding: Import large sets of Custom Object records from a CSV instead of creating records one-by-one.

  • Flexible Import Modes: Create, Update, or Create + Update records depending on your use case.

  • Cleaner Data with Dedupe: Use unique fields to prevent duplicates and reduce record conflicts.

  • Operational Control: Pause, resume, or cancel imports from the Bulk Actions page.

  • Better Visibility: View import stats, row-level errors, warnings, and resolution guidance.

How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import

A clean CSV and correct mappings are the difference between a smooth import and a long troubleshooting cycle. Following a consistent setup process helps you avoid duplicates, reduce row-level errors, and ensure records are created or updated accurately.

  1. Open Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into.

    Step 1 of 9: Open Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object… What this shows Step 1 of 9: Open Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into. What this shows Shows where to go for step 1 of 9 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". This screenshot accompanies step 1 of 9 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". At this point in the walkthrough you open Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into. This part of the guide covers 3 fields, listed below. The next step is to click Import (top right). Step 1 of 9Image 1 of 8 Where to goOpen Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into.
    Fields in this part of the guide Map your fields:Map Primary/Required fields firstPause, Resume, or Cancel as needed
    Buttons and menus referenced Custom ObjectsImportCreate &Update.dedupe unique fieldPrimary/Required fieldsOwnerFollowersUpdate empty valuesStart ImportBulk Actions → Custom Objects
    Next stepClick Import (top right).
    All 9 steps in this procedure
    1. Open Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into. this image
    2. Click Import (top right).
    3. Select objects to start importing.
    4. Choose an import mode: Create & Update.
    5. If prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped).
    6. Map your fields:
    7. Enable Update empty values if your use case requires applying blank values during update imports (primary/required exclusions still apply).
    8. Click Start Import.
    9. Track and control your import from Bulk Actions → Custom Objects:

  2. Click Import (top right).

    Step 2 of 9: Click Import (top right) What this shows Step 2 of 9: Click Import (top right). What this shows Shows what to click for step 2 of 9 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". This screenshot accompanies step 2 of 9 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". At this point in the walkthrough you click Import (top right). For context, this section explains: A clean CSV and correct mappings are the difference between a smooth import and a long troubleshooting cycle. Following a consistent setup process helps you avoid duplicates, reduce row-level errors, and ensure records are created or updated accurately. This part of the guide covers 3 fields, listed below. The next step is to select objects to start importing. Step 2 of 9Image 2 of 8 What to clickClick Import (top right).
    Fields in this part of the guide Map your fields:Map Primary/Required fields firstPause, Resume, or Cancel as needed
    Buttons and menus referenced ImportCustom ObjectsCreate &Update.dedupe unique fieldPrimary/Required fieldsOwnerFollowersUpdate empty valuesStart ImportBulk Actions → Custom Objects
    Next stepSelect objects to start importing.
    All 9 steps in this procedure
    1. Open Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into.
    2. Click Import (top right). this image
    3. Select objects to start importing.
    4. Choose an import mode: Create & Update.
    5. If prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped).
    6. Map your fields:
    7. Enable Update empty values if your use case requires applying blank values during update imports (primary/required exclusions still apply).
    8. Click Start Import.
    9. Track and control your import from Bulk Actions → Custom Objects:

  3. Select objects to start importing.

    Step 3 of 9: Select objects to start importing What this shows Step 3 of 9: Select objects to start importing. What this shows Shows what to choose for step 3 of 9 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". This screenshot accompanies step 3 of 9 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". At this point in the walkthrough you select objects to start importing. For context, this section explains: A clean CSV and correct mappings are the difference between a smooth import and a long troubleshooting cycle. Following a consistent setup process helps you avoid duplicates, reduce row-level errors, and ensure records are created or updated accurately. This part of the guide covers 3 fields, listed below. The next step is to choose an import mode: Create & Update. Step 3 of 9Image 3 of 8 What to chooseSelect objects to start importing.
    Fields in this part of the guide Map your fields:Map Primary/Required fields firstPause, Resume, or Cancel as needed
    Buttons and menus referenced Custom ObjectsImportCreate &Update.dedupe unique fieldPrimary/Required fieldsOwnerFollowersUpdate empty valuesStart ImportBulk Actions → Custom Objects
    Next stepChoose an import mode: Create & Update.
    All 9 steps in this procedure
    1. Open Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into.
    2. Click Import (top right).
    3. Select objects to start importing. this image
    4. Choose an import mode: Create & Update.
    5. If prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped).
    6. Map your fields:
    7. Enable Update empty values if your use case requires applying blank values during update imports (primary/required exclusions still apply).
    8. Click Start Import.
    9. Track and control your import from Bulk Actions → Custom Objects:

  4. Choose an import mode: Create & Update.

    Step 4 of 9: Choose an import mode: Create & Update What this shows Step 4 of 9: Choose an import mode: Create & Update. What this shows Shows what to choose for step 4 of 9 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". This screenshot accompanies step 4 of 9 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". At this point in the walkthrough you choose an import mode: Create & Update. For context, this section explains: A clean CSV and correct mappings are the difference between a smooth import and a long troubleshooting cycle. Following a consistent setup process helps you avoid duplicates, reduce row-level errors, and ensure records are created or updated accurately. This part of the guide covers 3 fields, listed below. The next step is to if prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped). Step 4 of 9Image 4 of 8 What to chooseChoose an import mode: Create & Update.
    Fields in this part of the guide Map your fields:Map Primary/Required fields firstPause, Resume, or Cancel as needed
    Buttons and menus referenced Create &Update.Custom ObjectsImportdedupe unique fieldPrimary/Required fieldsOwnerFollowersUpdate empty valuesStart ImportBulk Actions → Custom Objects
    Next stepIf prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped).
    All 9 steps in this procedure
    1. Open Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into.
    2. Click Import (top right).
    3. Select objects to start importing.
    4. Choose an import mode: Create & Update. this image
    5. If prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped).
    6. Map your fields:
    7. Enable Update empty values if your use case requires applying blank values during update imports (primary/required exclusions still apply).
    8. Click Start Import.
    9. Track and control your import from Bulk Actions → Custom Objects:

  5. If prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped).

    Step 5 of 9: If prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when… What this shows Step 5 of 9: If prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped). What this shows Shows what to choose for step 5 of 9 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". This screenshot accompanies step 5 of 9 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". At this point in the walkthrough you if prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped). This part of the guide covers 3 fields, listed below. The next step is to map your fields. Step 5 of 9Image 5 of 8 What to chooseIf prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped).
    Fields in this part of the guide Map your fields:Map Primary/Required fields firstPause, Resume, or Cancel as needed
    Buttons and menus referenced dedupe unique fieldCustom ObjectsImportCreate &Update.Primary/Required fieldsOwnerFollowersUpdate empty valuesStart ImportBulk Actions → Custom Objects
    Next stepMap your fields:
    All 9 steps in this procedure
    1. Open Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into.
    2. Click Import (top right).
    3. Select objects to start importing.
    4. Choose an import mode: Create & Update.
    5. If prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped). this image
    6. Map your fields:
    7. Enable Update empty values if your use case requires applying blank values during update imports (primary/required exclusions still apply).
    8. Click Start Import.
    9. Track and control your import from Bulk Actions → Custom Objects:

  6. Map your fields:

    • Map Primary/Required fields first

    • Then map additional fields (including Owner and Followers, if needed)

      Step 2 of 2: Then map additional fields (including Owner and Followers, if needed) What this shows Step 2 of 2: Then map additional fields (including Owner and Followers, if needed) What this shows Shows what this covers for step 2 of 2 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". This screenshot accompanies step 2 of 2 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". At this point in the walkthrough you then map additional fields (including Owner and Followers, if needed). This part of the guide covers 3 fields, listed below. Step 2 of 2Image 6 of 8 What this coversThen map additional fields (including Owner and Followers, if needed)
      Fields in this part of the guide Map your fields:Map Primary/Required fields firstPause, Resume, or Cancel as needed
      Buttons and menus referenced OwnerFollowersCustom ObjectsImportCreate &Update.dedupe unique fieldPrimary/Required fieldsUpdate empty valuesStart ImportBulk Actions → Custom Objects
      All 2 steps in this procedure
      1. Map Primary/Required fields first
      2. Then map additional fields (including Owner and Followers, if needed) this image

  7. Enable Update empty values if your use case requires applying blank values during update imports (primary/required exclusions still apply).

    Step 7 of 9: Enable Update empty values if your use case requires applying blank… What this shows Step 7 of 9: Enable Update empty values if your use case requires applying blank values during update imports (primary/required exclusions still apply). What this shows Shows what this covers for step 7 of 9 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". This screenshot accompanies step 7 of 9 in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". At this point in the walkthrough you enable Update empty values if your use case requires applying blank values during update imports (primary/required exclusions still apply). This part of the guide covers 3 fields, listed below. The next step is to click Start Import. Step 7 of 9Image 7 of 8 What this coversEnable Update empty values if your use case requires applying blank values during update imports (primary/required exclusions still apply).
    Fields in this part of the guide Map your fields:Map Primary/Required fields firstPause, Resume, or Cancel as needed
    Buttons and menus referenced Update empty valuesCustom ObjectsImportCreate &Update.dedupe unique fieldPrimary/Required fieldsOwnerFollowersStart ImportBulk Actions → Custom Objects
    Next stepClick Start Import.
    All 9 steps in this procedure
    1. Open Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into.
    2. Click Import (top right).
    3. Select objects to start importing.
    4. Choose an import mode: Create & Update.
    5. If prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped).
    6. Map your fields:
    7. Enable Update empty values if your use case requires applying blank values during update imports (primary/required exclusions still apply). this image
    8. Click Start Import.
    9. Track and control your import from Bulk Actions → Custom Objects:

  8. Click Start Import.

  9. Track and control your import from Bulk Actions → Custom Objects:

    • Pause, Resume, or Cancel as needed

    • Open the import to view stats and row-level results

How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import (image 8 of 8) What this shows Open Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into. What this shows Illustrates the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". This screenshot appears in the "How To Setup Custom Object Bulk Import" section of "Bulk Import Custom Object Records (CSV) with Bulk Actions". The text alongside this image reads: Open Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into. Click Import (top right). Select objects to start importing. Choose an import mode: Create & Update. If prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are…. Immediately after, the guide continues: Q: When should I use Create vs Update vs Create + Update? A: Use Create for brand-new datasets, Update to modify existing records only, and Create + Update when your CSV contains a mix of new and existing records. Image 8 of 8 Where to goOpen Custom Objects in your sub-account and select the Custom Object you want to import records into. Click Import (top right). Select objects to start importing. Choose an import mode: Create & Update. If prompted, select the dedupe unique field (only appears when multiple unique fields are mapped). Map your fields: Enable Update empty values if your use case requires applying blank values during update imports (primary/required exclusions still apply). Click Start Import. Track and control your import from Bulk Actions → Custom Objects: Next stepQ: When should I use Create vs Update vs Create + Update? A: Use Create for brand-new datasets, Update to modify existing records only, and Create + Update when your CSV contains a mix of new and existing records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When should I use Create vs Update vs Create + Update?
A: Use Create for brand-new datasets, Update to modify existing records only, and Create + Update when your CSV contains a mix of new and existing records.

Q: Why am I asked to select a dedupe field?
A: If multiple Unique Fields are mapped, GHL Customer Care prompts you to choose which unique field should be used for dedupe matching during the import.

Q: What does “strict conflict handling across unique fields” mean?
A: If a row would violate unique field rules (such as attempting to assign a unique value that already exists on another record), the import flags that row with errors or warnings so you can correct it.

Q: What does “Update empty values” do?
A: It allows empty CSV values to be applied during updates, but Primary/Required fields are excluded from empty-value updates.

Q: Can I pause an import and resume it later?
A: Yes. Imports can be Paused and Resumed from Bulk Actions → Custom Objects.

Q: What happens if I cancel an import?
A: Canceling stops the import from continuing. Already-processed rows may remain applied, depending on what was completed before canceling.

Q: Where do I see which rows failed and how to fix them?
A: Open the import details and use the Stats modal tabs to view Errors and Warnings. Row-level messages include How to Resolve guidance.

Q: Can I import multiple Custom Objects in one CSV?
A: Not yet. Multi-object import is currently disabled and shows “Coming soon.”

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