Importing your subscribers into a Klaviyo list
Importing your subscribers into a Klaviyo list is a fundamental step to effectively launch your marketing campaigns and maximize the impact of your email marketing strategy. This article details the most efficient method for transferring your contacts to Klaviyo while adhering to best practices for deliverability and regulatory compliance.
Preparing your CSV file
1. Optimal file structure
- – Mandatory primary column: Include an “Email” or “Phone Number” column.
- – Custom data columns: Add useful attributes
- for segmentation.
- – Data consistency: Verify the format of values to avoid errors.
- – UTF-8 encoding: Ensure proper handling of special characters.
2. Consent management
- – Include a “Consent Status” column with values “Subscribed,” “Unsubscribed,” or “Never Subscribed.”
- – Retain proof of consent for each subscriber.
- – Segment by consent type for more precise targeting.
3. Date formatting
- – Use the Klaviyo format “YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM:SS”.
- – Standardize the time zone to avoid inconsistencies.
Klaviyo import process
1. Accessing lists
- – Log in to Klaviyo and go to Audience > Lists & Segments.
2. Selecting or creating a list
- – Click on an existing list or create a new list with an explicit name.
3. Importing the CSV file
- – Go to Manage List then Import Contacts.
- – Select and upload your CSV file.
4. Configuring column mapping
- – Associate each CSV column with a Klaviyo property.
- – Create new properties if necessary.
5. Defining consent settings
- – Verify the mapping of the consent column.
- – If absent, choose a default status (preferably “Never Subscribed”).
6. Finalizing the import
- – Start the import and monitor its progress.
- – Receive a notification once completed.
Best practices for a successful import
Temporarily disable flows
- – Pause automations impacted by the import.
Comply with regulations
- – Only import contacts who have given their consent.
- – Exclude unsubscribed or unverifiable contacts.
Post-import optimization
- – Create segments based on engagement and contact origin.
- – Monitor deliverability metrics and adjust strategies.
Verification and cleaning
- – Correct any errors and remove duplicates.
- – Use an email address verification tool.
It is also possible to import your contacts from Shopify, here's how.
Conclusion
Effectively importing your subscribers into Klaviyo is the foundation of a high-performing email marketing strategy. Good preparation and rigorous follow-up ensure better audience management and optimize the impact of your campaigns.
