FOR SHOPIFY MERCHANTS AND CATALOG AGENCIES

Review the update before importing it

A valid CSV can still contain an unintended price, an empty product field or a changed variant option. Compare the proposed file against a fresh product export before deciding what to import.

1. Keep a fresh baseline

Export the products you intend to update and keep the original file. Select the same overwrite mode in your review tool that you will use in Shopify. Products absent from the update are not automatically deletions.

2. Check blanks and omitted columns

An included blank field is different from an omitted column. In an overwrite import, inspect whether blank fields could replace existing values. Product continuation rows require special care: an empty product title on a later variant row is not the same as clearing the product title.

3. Review price movements

A price such as 2.90 may be valid even when the intended price was 29.00. Choose a threshold for manual review, inspect zero prices and compare every unexpected movement. A threshold is a review policy, not a guarantee.

4. Match products and options deliberately

Product handles and variant option combinations matter. Do not assume that CSV row order or a reused SKU identifies the same variant. Review missing option columns, duplicate option combinations and options that no longer match the baseline.

5. Check the uncovered operations

Catalog Preflight reviews selected core product fields. Markets, metafields, image operations and live inventory are outside full coverage. Unknown columns require manual review. The tool has not been validated against a live Shopify import.

6. Prepare the client handoff

Record the files reviewed, intended overwrite setting, price threshold and reviewer notes. Keep an original export and test a small complete product in a development store. A report documents findings; it does not approve an import.

Try the free CSV checker · See a sample agency report

For repeat client work

Agency Edition costs $9 once and adds complete branded HTML reports, reviewer notes and reusable policies. The downloaded tool runs in a desktop browser without a store connection. Your CSV files stay on your device. View secure checkout.

Reviewed against Shopify product CSV guidance and import instructions. Independent tool, not affiliated with Shopify.