Import missing columns or column mapping

Forensik reads imports in two ways. Orders, SKUs and markup files use fixed column names from a template, so the headings must match. Carrier invoices, rate cards and fuel levies come in each carrier's own layout, so you tell Forensik which column is which once, in a Map columns step, and it can remember that mapping for next time.

Missing columns

Missing column(s): (the column names)

Cause. A fixed-layout import (orders, SKUs or markup) could not find one or more required headings in the first row of the file, so no row could be read. Headings are matched without regard to capitals or surrounding spaces, but the words must be the same. Common slips are a renamed heading (such as Order ID instead of order_id), a missing column, or a title row above the headings in a workbook.

The required headings are:

• Orders: order_id, order_date, dest_suburb, dest_state, dest_postcode, sku_code, qty, freight_charged_ex_gst and freight_gst. See Import orders.
• SKUs: sku_code, name, carton_no, length_mm, width_mm, height_mm and weight_g. category is optional.
• Markup files: sku_code, mode, percent and free_freight.

For a rate card on a ready-made template you may see "the file has no (column) column. Use the ready-made template's layout", and for a mapped import "Column (name) is not in the file", which means the file no longer has a column the mapping uses.

Fix. Download the template from the page you are importing on (for orders, Template on the Orders page) and copy your data under its headings, or rename your headings to match exactly. In a workbook, make sure the headings are on one row and, if there are rows above them, set Column headings on row to the right row. For a mapped import where the carrier has changed its file layout, go through Map columns again and pick the new columns.

When to contact support. If the headings match the template exactly and the import still reports them missing. Attach the file when you contact support.

No saved column mapping

There is no saved column mapping for (carrier). Map the columns first.

Cause. Carrier invoices, rate cards and fuel levies need to know which of your file's columns holds each value: connote, date, amount and so on. The first time you import a file from a carrier there is no mapping yet, and none was sent with the upload. Rate cards that use one of Forensik's ready-made carrier templates do not need a mapping.

Fix. Use the import page's step-by-step flow, which shows a Map columns step. For each value, pick the column from your file that holds it, or Not in this file where the carrier does not provide it. For invoices, leave Save this mapping for (carrier) and use it next time ticked; the next file from that carrier is mapped for you and the carrier list shows "(saved mapping)" beside it. If a carrier changes its layout later, check the saved mapping and adjust it before you continue. See Import carrier invoices.

When to contact support. If you saved a mapping and the next import from the same carrier still says there is none.