Import Item Database Wizard

The Import Item Database Wizard guides you through importing data to an existing or new Custom or DOT Item Database.

The Import Item Database button is only available if the "Users have permission to import Item Databases" setting is enabled in the Estimate Administration program.

Importing item databases allows you to quickly populate your system with item templates, descriptions, and units of measure from external files.

  1. Open the Item/WBS Databases tab and select Import Item Database from the Edit & Tools menu.
  2. Review the Welcome page and select Next.
  3. On the Select Import File page, select Browse... to choose your file, and specify if the first row is a Header Row or Data Row.
  4. On the Select Item Template Property Mapping page, map the import file columns to the required system properties, then select Next.
  5. On the Review Units of Measure page, verify the mappings for each unit of measure (UM) and select Next.
  6. On the Select Item Database page, choose a destination method:
    • To create a new database: Select Import into new Item Database named:, enter a name, select the database type, and select Next.
    • To import into an existing database: Select Import into existing Item Database, choose the target database, and select Next.
  7. On the summary page, review the expected results and select Finish.

Working with Existing Database Mapping: If importing into an existing database, you may need to resolve conflicts using a mapping file. To do this, select Generate Update Mapping File and open the resulting Excel file.

  • Step 1 – Resolve Conflicts: Define actions for matching item numbers (e.g., Skip, Update, or Create New).
  • Step 2 – Create or Update Items: Manage items from the import file that do not match the target database.
  • Load Mapping: Return to the wizard, select Load Update Mapping File, navigate to your edited file, and select Finish.

Troubleshooting: The import will roll back if the file contains invalid Work Type or Work Subtype data, such as a subtype missing a parent work type.