The quick answer
Open the Import Assistant, select the correct record type, upload the prepared CSV, review the data-handling option, and inspect the field mappings. This workflow stops at Field Mapping; uploading the file and reviewing the mapping don't create or update records.
The screenshots show sample data. Person and operating-company names are fictional. Use your own records and values when following the steps.
Before you start
Prepare a supported CSV file with valid headers and required values. Confirm that your role can perform CSV imports and access the target record type. For updates, prepare a reliable identifier and confirm how referenced values such as subsidiaries will be matched.
01. Select the import and record type
Go to Setup > Import/Export > Import CSV Records. On Scan & Upload CSV File, select the import category and record type for your file. The example uses Accounting and Chart of Accounts. Check the character encoding and delimiter against the file before uploading.
02. Upload the prepared CSV
In the CSV File(s) area, select the prepared file and confirm that the intended filename appears in the assistant. The example displays chart-of-accounts.csv after selection. An accepted upload only makes the file available for the remaining import setup; it doesn't create records.
03. Choose the data-handling option
Review Data Handling on the Import Options stage and select the operation that matches the file's purpose. Add creates records, Update changes existing records identified by a reliable key, and Add or Update can perform either operation when the file and mapping support it. In the example, Add is selected for a new account-record import.
04. Inspect the field mapping
Review the CSV columns under Your Fields and compare each one with its NetSuite destination. The example maps Name, Number, Type, and Description to the corresponding account fields, while Parent Company is mapped to Subsidiaries (Req). Check required fields and confirm that reference values use the appropriate name, internal ID, or external ID format for the account. Stop here for this walkthrough. Do not select Run or Save and Run; reviewing the mapping does not execute the import.
Check the result
- The selected import category and record type match the CSV's business purpose and headers.
- The uploaded filename is the intended file, and the selected data-handling option matches whether records should be added or updated.
- Required fields and references are mapped to the intended NetSuite fields; reaching Field Mapping does not confirm row validity or start the import.
Common questions
How do I prepare a Chart of Accounts CSV for review?
Create a supported CSV with headers such as Number, Name, Type, and Description. If the account is subsidiary-specific, include the appropriate subsidiary field and use values valid in that NetSuite account.
How do I review the import without creating or changing accounts?
Open Import CSV Records, select the accounting record type for the Chart of Accounts, upload the CSV, and review Import Options and Field Mapping. Stop at Field Mapping; do not select the final option to save and start the import. Uploading the file and reviewing mappings does not create or update records.
Should I choose Add, Update, or Add or Update?
Choose Add to create new accounts, Update to change existing accounts using a reliable identifier, or Add or Update when the file intentionally supports both actions. The available behavior and required identifiers can vary by account configuration, permissions, and record setup.
What mappings should I verify for account records?
Confirm that Number, Name, and Type map to the intended required account fields, and that Description maps to the account description. Review subsidiary, parent-account, and other reference fields carefully because the account may require names, internal IDs, or external IDs depending on its configuration and the selected reference type.