# Importing barcode data into Orca Scan

You can easily import your asset or inventory data into Orca Scan using a Microsoft Excel `.xlsx` file. To ensure a smooth import, make sure your data is on the first sheet and includes a named **Barcode** column. Orca Scan will only process data from this sheet and will use the barcodes to match and retrieve relevant information.

## Before you get started

Only Excel `.xlsx` files are supported, which is the standard format for Microsoft Excel spreadsheets.

1. Make sure your data is on the first sheet of the Excel file as Orca Scan only imports from this sheet.
2. Ensure every column has a title, as files with empty column names cannot be imported.
3. Remove logos, merged cells, and unnecessary formatting so your file is clean and structured like the example below:

An example of how your data should be structured before importing into Orca Scan

## How to import data into Orca Scan

1. Go to the sheet you want to populate
2. Click **Import**
3. Select the Excel file you want to upload
4. Choose to **Add to existing rows** or **Replace existing rows** _(Note: ‘Replace existing rows’ will overwrite the current data in your sheet)_
5. Click **Import**

**Note:** If no barcode column is found, you can choose to auto-generate one or match it to an existing column in your Excel file.

Once complete, you’ll see a summary of what was imported. Click **OK** to finish.

## Troubleshooting

### Import error: “Failed to fetch”

Reload your browser and try importing the file again

### Import error: “Your spreadsheet must include a barcode column”

You need to add a column to the file named **Barcode.** You can always change this once the file is imported.

## Next steps

- [Live-sync with Excel](/content/guides/how-to-scan-barcodes-into-microsoft-excel-59fd67f9/index.html)
- [Customise the entry fields](/content/guides/customising-your-barcode-scanner-fields-04045a69/index.html)
- [Manage users and permissions](/content/guides/adding-users-to-an-orca-scan-sheet-3137371c#set-user-permissions/index.html)

## Questions about importing files?

We’re always happy to help, chat with us live or drop us an [email.](mailto:hello@orcascan.com)