Adding Auction Items in Bulk
If you are adding a large number of items to your auction, the fastest method is to use the bulk upload feature in the Item Catalog.
This tool allows you to import many items at once using a simple spreadsheet file.
Where to Find the Bulk Upload Tool
All bulk item importing is done from the Item Catalog page.
To get started:
- Log into your CharityAuctions admin account
- Open the auction you want to manage
- In the left navigation menu, click Item Management
- Select Item Catalog
This page is the central location for managing all auction items.
Uploading Items in Bulk
Once you are on the Item Catalog page:
- Look in the top right corner of the screen
- Click the Upload Items button
- Download the provided sample import file
- Open the file and fill in your item information row by row
- Save the file when finished
- Upload the completed file back into the system
CharityAuctions will automatically create individual auction items based on the information in your spreadsheet.
Using the Sample Import File
The sample import file is designed to make the process simple and accurate.
We recommend that you:
- Download the template directly from the Upload Items screen
- Follow the column format exactly
- Add one item per row
- Save the file in the same format before importing
Using the template ensures your items are imported correctly the first time.
After Your Items Are Imported
Once your file has been uploaded and processed:
- All items will appear in your Item Catalog
- You can review and edit any item individually
- You can add images to each item
- You can organize items into categories
Using Bulk Edit to Save Even More Time
After importing, you can quickly update multiple items at once.
From the Item Catalog page you can use the Bulk Edit feature to:
- Change starting bids
- Update categories
- Adjust item settings
- Make other mass updates
This makes it easy to fine-tune your auction without editing each item one by one.
Adding Images to Imported Items
Images are not included in the spreadsheet upload.
After your items are imported, you can:
- Open any individual item
- Upload photos directly
- Add multiple images per item if needed
Clear, high-quality images help increase bidder interest and final sale prices.
If you need help formatting your import file or correcting an upload, Contact Support is happy to assist.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I upload items in bulk?
Go to Item Management > Item Catalog and click the Upload Items button in the top right corner.
Do I need to use the sample file?
Yes. Using the provided template ensures your data matches the correct format.
Can I edit items after importing them?
Yes. You can edit any item individually or use the Bulk Edit tool.
Can images be uploaded through the spreadsheet?
No. Images are added after import by editing each item.
What if I make a mistake in my upload?
You can correct items using Bulk Edit or update them individually after the import.
Related articles
- Adding and Managing Sponsors
Add and manage sponsors from Item Management > Sponsor Logos. Upload logo images or enter sponsor names, choose display locations, and organize by sponsorship level.
- Can I Automate or Bulk Upload Images to My Auction?
CharityAuctions does not support bulk or automated image uploads. Images must be added individually to each item. Learn the fastest way to add photos—using your mobile phone.
- How do I add an item to my auction?
Go to Item Management > Item Catalog and click Add Item. Enter item name, description, starting bid, fair market value, category, and optional images.
- How to Create Item Categories
Create custom item categories to organize your auction. Assign categories when adding items, and let bidders filter with the Show me dropdown. Control online and printed catalog display.
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