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# How do I correctly map fields in my product feed?

To map fields correctly in your product feed, ensure each field is linked to the correct column and contains valid data. To change a mapping, open the specific feed, select **Edit Settings**, and go to **Step 2: Matching Column**. Use the field mapping dropdown/search control to select the required source column, then save the feed. If the control does not open, verify that the source column exists in the current feed file and that its header matches exactly. Use the **Reset** button to restore the default mapping. If you only want to update selected fields, unmap fields you do not want to change.

Use the actual image URL when mapping product images, not a webpage link. If your file has no headers or the header row is not in the first position, the first row is treated as data. In these cases, map fields using column index numbers like 1, 2, 3 instead of letters or header names. Always ensure required fields, such as Vendor, are explicitly mapped; otherwise, the system will assign your store name by default. For quantity values, make sure the file contains direct numerical values only; values like "10+" or "More Than 5" require setting a rule to convert them into exact numbers before mapping. These steps help ensure accurate updates and prevent missing or incorrect product information.

Before syncing, compare the mapping with the exact headers in the current feed file. Column names are case-sensitive: for example, `QUANTITY` must be mapped to `QUANTITY`, not `Quantity`. If a supplier changes a header, update the mapping using the field dropdown. If the file contains an encoding prefix such as `` before a header, use the matching column or map by column index.

For Shopify CSV files, ensure the following mappings for reliable product and variant updates:
* Use the **Variant SKU** as the unique Product Identifier. *(Alternatively, the **Barcode** or **Handle** can also be used, as long as they match the values in your file).*
* Map the variant group to a column that contains matching values across product variants, such as Product Title or Handle.
* Map variant option values (e.g., Option1 Value) to the corresponding Variant Option fields.
* If the first row contains a filename or other non-data content, enable the setting to skip the first row before syncing.

When mapping XML feeds:
* XML field names are case‑sensitive. Ensure the product identifier node name exactly matches (for example, use `id`, not `ID`).
* On first‑time XML mapping, dropdown lists may appear empty. Only previously mapped or updated fields will show in the dropdown.
* Always select the correct node to use as the product identifier (such as SKU, barcode, or title). Incorrect mapping will result in zero products being imported.