Map columns and match keys
Mapping is the contract between the sheet and Shopify. A weak identity key creates duplicates; over-mapping can overwrite editorial copy.
Prerequisites
- Google connected with spreadsheet/worksheet selected
Steps
- In Settings, map sheet columns to Shopify fields you intend to drive (for example handle, title, SKU, price, inventory, image).
- Choose a stable match key (commonly variant SKU, handle, Shopify product ID, or barcode) so updates hit the same product every run.
- Leave rich merchandising fields unmapped if Shopify should remain the source of truth for storytelling.
- Save mapping, then run Preview on a sample before a full Apply.
Tips
- Document the mapping in the sheet header so freelancers do not “helpfully” rename columns.
- Price and inventory-only policies pair well with a narrow mapped set.
Troubleshooting
- Duplicate products: match key is too weak (e.g. title-only)—switch to SKU/handle and clean duplicates in Admin.
- Fields not updating: confirm the column is mapped and included in the matched-row update policy.
