Skip to main content

Importing Customers into Auction Flex

Import customers in an auction using the Import function > Check-In Customers screen. This adds them to the Customer Center for future use.

Updated over a month ago

🛑 Before You Begin: Backup Your Data

Important: Always make a backup of your database before importing. If anything goes wrong, you can restore the backup and try again.

Step-by-Step: How to Import Customers

1. Prepare Your Spreadsheet

Create your spreadsheet using Excel or CSV format. Include all necessary customer details.

Note: If you do not assign bid card numbers in the import, customers will only be added to the Customer Center (not the current auction).
​

2. Launch the Import Tool

  1. Open Auction Flex and select your auction from the Active Auctions drop-down.

  2. Click Check-In Customers from the Navigator or toolbar.

  3. Click the Advanced button on the left and select Import Customers.

3. Select Your Import File

  • Make sure you're on Step 1.

  • Click the ellipses button ... to browse and select your spreadsheet.

4. Map Your Fields

On the Next Step screen, map your spreadsheet columns to Auction Flex fields.

Fields must be in the same order as your spreadsheet.

📌 Field Mapping Notes (Beyond the Basics)

  • Mailing Codes (Format = XX XX):
    Used for grouping customers by category. You can include up to 15 two-letter codes, like AN VE for Antiques and Vehicles. This import coding is also specific to CUS and can preserve any of their mailing lists on import.

  • Mailing List 1–10 (Y/N):
    Use Y or N in separate columns to indicate whether a customer is subscribed to a given mailing list.

    • Y = Subscribed

    • N or blank = Not Subscribed
      Mailing lists named “MAILING LIST 1”, “MAILING LIST 2”, etc., will be created automatically.

  • Mailing List Code 1–10:
    Instead of Y/N, you can use descriptive codes like ANTIQUES, BOATS, or VEHICLES. Each unique value becomes a new mailing list.
    ​

Step-by-Step (Continued)

5. Preview the Import Grid

  • Click Next Step again.

  • Click View Selected File to preview your data.

  • Check the box for Skip First Row When Importing if your spreadsheet includes headers.

6. Set Duplicate Checking Level

Choose the appropriate Duplicate Checking Level to avoid importing duplicate customers.

7. Final Step: Import

Click Next Step again and then click Import Customers to complete the process.

Related Articles
Inventory Import
How to Opt Customers Out of Mailing Lists in Auction Flex and HiBid
Managing Buyer Deposits in Auction Flex
Auto-Clerking Alternate Bids in Auction Flex
Auction Flex Hardware Guide
Did this answer your question?