Preparing your file#
The import tool is strict about file format. A file that deviates from the expected structure will fail. This page explains exactly what Fillet expects so you can prepare your file correctly the first time.
Start from the sample file#
Always start from the sample file that Fillet provides — do not build your own spreadsheet from scratch. The sample file has the correct column names, column order, and formatting already in place.
The sample file looks like this:
Ingredient name,Amount,Unit,Price
Test ingredient name,"1,234.56",kg,"1,234.56"Delete the example row and replace it with your own data.
The four columns#
Your file must have exactly these four columns, in this order:
| Column | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Ingredient name | The name of the ingredient. Text — letters, numbers, and special characters are all fine. |
| Amount | The pack quantity this price applies to. Numbers only — no letters or symbols. |
| Unit | The unit of measurement for the amount. Standard abbreviations are listed below. Any other text creates a custom unit. |
| Price | The cost for that amount. Numbers only — no currency symbols or codes. |
Do not add, remove, or reorder columns. Extra columns — even if they contain useful information for you — will cause the import to fail.
Units of measurement#
The import tool recognises Fillet’s standard units. Unit matching is not case-sensitive — Kg, kg, and KG all work.
Mass units: kg, lb, oz, g, mg
Volume units: gal, L, qt, pt, cup, fl oz, mL
If you enter a unit name that is not on this list — for example, “each” or “case” — Fillet creates a custom unit (abstract unit) for that ingredient and uses it for the price. The custom unit will have no mass or volume equivalent, so Fillet cannot convert between it and standard units. You can set the mass or volume for the custom unit manually after importing.
Numbers and formatting#
Number formatting depends on the locale you selected at the start of the import. For example, some locales use a period as the decimal separator (12.50) while others use a comma (12,50). The sample file Fillet generates is already formatted for your selected locale.
- Decimal and thousands separators: Use whatever is standard for your selected locale. If you are unsure, check the example row in the sample file.
- Currency symbols: Do not include them. Enter
12.50, not$12.50orAUD 12.50.
File format#
The file must be saved as CSV (.csv). Fillet does not accept .xlsx, .numbers, .ods, or any other format.
To export as CSV in common spreadsheet apps:
- Google Sheets: File → Download → Comma-separated values (.csv)
- Excel: File → Save As → CSV (Comma delimited)
- Numbers: File → Export To → CSV
Always export rather than renaming the file extension manually.
One vendor per file#
Each file maps to one vendor. When you upload, you will be asked to select an existing vendor or create a new one. All prices in the file will be assigned to that vendor.
If you have prices from multiple vendors, prepare a separate file for each and run the import once per vendor.