How do I import my collection from a CSV?
If you already track your collection in a spreadsheet, you can bring it in from
Rail ▸ Collection ▸ Import (the Import link, /Import). It's the fastest
way to add a lot of pieces at once.
The basic flow
- Pick a category. Imports are grouped by type — Locomotives, Rolling Stock, Accessories, and Sets — so the columns match what you're adding.
- Download a blank template. Each category gives you a starter CSV with the right column headers already in place. Fill in one row per item.
- Upload your file. Drop the finished CSV back in and CCMF Trains checks it for you.
- Review the checks. First the column headers are validated, then every row — anything it can't understand is flagged with a plain-language explanation and how to fix it, so you can correct the file and re-upload before anything is saved.
- Run the import. Rows are added in small batches with a progress bar, so a large file keeps moving and you can watch it work.
Handy to know
- Spreadsheet encoding. Templates are saved as UTF-8 so special characters (®, ™, ½) survive the round trip. If your saved file looks garbled, re-save it as CSV UTF-8 from your spreadsheet app.
- Made a mistake? Every import is tracked. Open the import History and undo a batch to roll the whole thing back.
- Import the same columns every time? Save your setup as a reusable template — see What are saved import templates?.
Going the other way? See How do I export my collection?.