> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.airlead.de/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Import leads from CSV or upload links

> Bring leads into Airlead from a file or let a partner upload without a full account.

# Import leads from CSV or upload links

Use CSV when a partner or team works with files instead of a continuous webhook.

Airlead supports:

* CSV upload into a source by an operator
* tokenized **upload links** for partners without an Airlead login

Prefer [Connect source via webhook](/guides/lead-capture/webhook-setup) when the partner can send HTTPS JSON continuously.

## When to use CSV

| Situation                           | Prefer      |
| ----------------------------------- | ----------- |
| One-time migration or campaign file | CSV upload  |
| Partner cannot call a webhook       | Upload link |
| Recurring structured traffic        | Webhook     |
| Workspace-to-workspace delivery     | Connect     |

## Before you import

1. Confirm the target channel or list.
2. Confirm the product and required fields.
3. Decide which column is the stable external ID.
4. Prepare a synthetic CSV with no real customer data.
5. Review duplicate detection settings.
6. Keep Delivery 1.0 off until the import is verified.

## Import a CSV as an operator

1. Open the channel or list.
2. Add or open a **CSV** source.
3. Upload a sample file.
4. Map columns to person, consent, capture, and interest fields.
5. Confirm required fields and value formats.
6. Import the synthetic file.
7. Open Records and the channel or list to verify the result.
8. Only then import production files.

## Share an upload link

An upload link lets a partner submit a CSV into a configured source without a full Airlead account.

Configure before sending the link:

* accepted columns and formats
* target source, product, and channel or list
* import mapping
* external ID column
* duplicate behavior
* required consent fields

Treat the link like a password. Revoke it when the partner no longer needs access.

## File checklist

Every production CSV should include:

* first name and last name
* email and/or phone
* product identification
* qualification values needed for buyer criteria
* a stable external ID per row
* consent fields required by your process

## Common questions

### Why did some rows fail?

Usually a missing required field, an unknown product, a mapping mismatch, or a duplicate rejection. Fix the mapping or file and re-import only the failed rows with the same external IDs where appropriate.

### Can I use CSV for ongoing production volume?

Yes for low or batch volume. For continuous supply, move the partner to a webhook.

### Does an upload create deliveries automatically?

No. Import creates persons and interests. Delivery still depends on routing readiness, buyers, and Delivery 1.0.

Next: [Connect source via webhook](/guides/lead-capture/webhook-setup) · [Prevent duplicate leads](/guides/lead-capture/deduplication) · [Share and upload links for developers](/developers/share-and-upload-links)