Importing contacts into Delivra is a straightforward process, but a little prep work goes a long way. By organizing your data ahead of time, you’ll ensure a smooth experience and help your campaigns take flight faster.
Before importing, start by reviewing and formatting your contact file. Here's how to get ready:
Use a spreadsheet application (like Excel or Google Sheets) to view and organize your data.
Each piece of data should live in its own column—for example, first name in one column, email address in another.
Only an email address is required, but we encourage including additional fields (like name or company) to personalize your messaging.
Header rows are optional. If you include them, there's no need to follow a specific order or naming format—you’ll be able to match columns to Delivra fields during import.
Save your file as a CSV (Comma Separated Values). If you're working from Excel, use "Save As" to select the CSV format. If you're exporting directly from a CRM, make sure the file type is set to .csv.
Once your file is saved and ready, it’s time to import.
Follow these steps from your Contacts dashboard:
Click "Import" on the "All Contacts" tile.
Select your file by clicking "Browse Files." Locate your CSV file, double-click to select, and click "Next."
Delivra will automatically validate your file to ensure it’s a proper CSV. If everything checks out, the file upload box will turn green within a few seconds.
Map your data fields.
Delivra will display each column from your CSV as a row.
Use the dropdown menus to match each row with the correct Delivra field.
The system may try to auto-match fields based on column headers, but double-check each row for accuracy.
Define your import rules. You’ll have a few options to configure:
Import action: Choose whether to trigger an automated message (e.g., a welcome email) to new contacts.
Ignore blank fields: Prevents overwriting existing contact data with empty fields.
Report held and unsubscribed addresses: Flags contacts that already exist in a non-mailable status.
Create a new tag: Add these contacts to a group for easy segmentation later.
Assign existing tags (optional): If you want to add these contacts to one or more pre-existing tags, move the desired tags to the right column.
Click “Import” to begin the process. You’ll land on a confirmation page outlining next steps. Click "Done" to finish.
You’ll receive a notification email once the import is complete.
Double-check email addresses for formatting issues before uploading.
Use tags to organize contacts by source, campaign, or interest group.
Consider importing small test batches first if you’re working with a new file format or data source.
Let’s say your sales team just wrapped up a trade show and collected hundreds of new leads. Use the import tool to upload those contacts, apply a "Trade Show 2025" tag, and immediately kick off a follow-up email campaign with a recap and special offer.
For a visual walkthrough, we recommend reviewing the Delivra Air Operator's Manual (e-learning), which includes helpful video guides and deeper explanations on contact management.