How should I prepare my catalog before processing orders?

Prepare one complete product as a reference, then use the same fields and conventions across your catalog before processing orders.

Each SKU represents a product, including an individual size or color variant. Choose the appropriate product type: finished good, part, bundle, alias, or non-inventory item. Record component relationships separately where needed.

Start with the current product CSV template, add a few products by hand, or use the Shopify product import. Keep existing SKUs consistent across systems.

Check your reference product’s UPC, dimensions, weight, costs, customs information, packaging, and images. Accurate weights and costs support later landed-cost allocation. Complete fields relevant to your business before copying the pattern to other products.

Create custom attributes for information such as season, fit, or retailer-specific identifiers. Group related attributes by product type or sales channel. Use the attribute’s handle in CSV columns such as custom.color. Review attribute filters and product-sheet columns so your team can find and edit the fields it uses daily.

You can use an AI tool to help map source spreadsheet columns to the template. Review its output, preserve identifiers, and test a small import before uploading the full catalog. Check the import notifications and verify sample records afterward.

Use the product field reference and packaging columns for exact headings and formats.