How to Import Products to OpenCart (2026 Guide)

Some OpenCart versions include a built-in Export/Import Tool under System > Maintenance that supports product import in spreadsheet format. If your version does not have this, search the OpenCart Marketplace for a free product import extension and install it via Extensions, then Installer in your admin panel.

Warning: Always create a full backup of your OpenCart database and files before installing any extension or running an import.

Create a CSV file with your product data. Required fields include model (the product SKU, which must be unique), name, and price. Include additional columns for description, quantity, weight, categories, and images as needed. Save the file in CSV format with UTF-8 encoding.

Tip: Set quantity to a value greater than 0 for products you want visible on the storefront. Products with quantity 0 may be hidden by default.

In the import extension settings, configure the delimiter character that separates values in your CSV file. The most common delimiter is a comma, but some files use semicolons or tabs. Make sure this setting matches your file's actual format to prevent data from being parsed incorrectly.

Navigate to the import extension in your OpenCart admin (typically found under Extensions or in a dedicated Import/Export menu). Select your CSV file for upload. Some extensions also support XLS, XLSX, and XML formats.

The import extension will display a field-mapping screen where you link each CSV column to the corresponding OpenCart database field. Map essential fields like product name, model, price, and quantity. Set any unmapped columns to be skipped during import.

Click Import to begin processing your CSV file. The extension will create products in your OpenCart store based on the mapped data. Wait for the import process to complete without navigating away from the page.

Go to Catalog, then Products in your OpenCart admin panel to review the imported products. Check that product names, prices, images, categories, and stock levels are correct. Verify the storefront to confirm products display properly to customers.

Tip: If product images are missing, check that the image file paths in your CSV match the actual paths in your OpenCart catalog/product directory.