Migrate from another store locator to Mapstore
What this article helps you do
Switch from another store locator app to Mapstore without losing your locations. This guide walks you through exporting your data, preparing it for Mapstore, and importing it safely.
Before you start
- You can export store data from your current store locator (CSV or spreadsheet)
- Your Mapstore app is installed and you can access Stores in the admin
- You have a list of key fields your current app uses (name, address, phone, etc.)
Step-by-step instructions
1. Export your data from the old app
Use the export feature in your current store locator to download a CSV or spreadsheet. Most apps support CSV export. Keep the original file as a backup.
2. Map your columns to Mapstore format
Mapstore needs at least name and address for every store. Your old app may use different column names. Mapstore recognizes common aliases: store_name or location_name for name; full_address or location for address. See Map old fields to Mapstore CSV columns for full mapping details.
3. Prepare and validate your CSV
- Ensure every row has both name and address
- Remove or fix empty rows
- Save as CSV (comma-separated). Use Preparing a CSV file for store import for format details.
4. Test import without replacing
Do a trial run first. In Stores -> Bulk, upload your CSV with Delete existing stores uploaded through CSV unchecked. New stores are added to your existing list. Check skipped rows and fix issues before a replacement run.
5. Replace CSV-imported stores when ready
When your CSV is correct and you want Mapstore to match it exactly, use Delete existing stores uploaded through CSV. Mapstore deletes only prior CSV-imported rows (not manual or sheet-managed rows) and imports your new file.
6. Verify on the storefront
Check your store locator page to confirm locations appear correctly on the map and in the list.
How to verify it worked
- All intended stores appear under Stores
- No unexpected skipped rows in the import summary
- The store locator map shows your locations
- Contact info (phone, email) displays where you expect it
Common issues and fixes
| Issue | Fix |
|---|---|
| Many rows skipped | Check that name and address columns exist and every row has values. See Understand skipped rows and import warnings. |
| Column names not recognized | Rename headers to standard names or known aliases. See Map old fields to Mapstore CSV columns. |
| Geocoding failures during import | Add lat and lng in your CSV if available, or save and test a Google Maps API key before importing again. See Address geocoding failed during import. |
| Manual stores disappeared | Replacement only targets CSV-imported stores. If records are missing, verify source type and re-import from backup CSV if needed. |