Importing Data Updated 2026-02-22

Use the Google Sheets template and publish it correctly

What this article helps you do

Use the Mapstore Google Sheets template to set up your store data and publish it correctly so Mapstore (or CSV URL import) can read it. The main issue people hit is using the wrong URL - the edit link instead of the published CSV link.

Before you start

  • You have a Google account
  • You know the required columns: name and address
  • You will use either Google Sheets sync or CSV URL import

Step-by-step instructions

1. Get the template

In Stores -> Bulk, use the template link shown in the CSV upload help banner. It opens a Google Sheets template with the right column structure.

2. Create a copy for your store

  1. Click Use template or Make a copy to create your own sheet.
  2. Name it something clear (e.g. “Mapstore Store Locations”).
  3. Fill in your stores: name and address are required for every row.
  4. Add optional columns (phone, email, website, description, filters, etc.) if needed.

3. Publish the sheet to the web

  1. In Google Sheets, go to File -> Share -> Publish to web.
  2. Choose the sheet or range (usually the first sheet).
  3. Set the format to Comma-separated values (.csv).
  4. Click Publish.
  5. Copy the generated URL.

Critical: Mapstore needs the published CSV export URL, not the URL you see when editing the sheet.

CorrectIncorrect
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/.../pub?output=csvhttps://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/.../edit
Has /pub in the pathHas /edit in the path
Has output=csv as a query parameterNo output=csv

If you paste an edit link (/edit), Mapstore will show an error like “This looks like a Google Sheets edit link” and will not accept it.

5. Add the URL in Mapstore

  • For Google Sheets sync: Paste the published CSV URL in the Google Sheets URL field, turn on sync, and run an initial sync.
  • For CSV URL import: Paste the same URL in the CSV URL field and click Upload.

How to verify it worked

  1. Run sync or import in Mapstore.
  2. Check Stores - your locations should appear.
  3. Make a small edit in the sheet, run sync again, and confirm the change appears in Mapstore.

Common issues and fixes

IssueFix
”This looks like a Google Sheets edit link”Use File -> Share -> Publish to web, choose CSV, and copy that URL. Do not use the URL from your browser while editing.
”Please enter a valid Google Sheets CSV export URL”Ensure the URL has output=csv and uses the /pub format. Re-publish if needed.
Sync or import runs but no stores appearCheck that the sheet has name and address columns and that every row has values in both.
Template link creates a copyYes - you must make a copy to edit. The template itself is read-only.