Shopify CSV answer · verified 13 July 2026
Which Shopify product CSV headers are required?
For new products: Shopify says the Title column is required; URL handle is also required when variants are added. For updates: URL handle and Title are required. Variant-related columns can require Option1 name and Option1 value even when the two headline fields are present.
Why does create or update intent matter?
A new-product file can let Shopify derive a handle from a title for a simple product. An update needs the URL handle to identify the existing product. CatalogVigil asks for the intent before validation so it does not apply the wrong required-field rule.
Are older header names still accepted?
Shopify says it maintains backward compatibility with older column names but recommends the current format. CatalogVigil recognises common pairs and offers an optional rename:
| Legacy | Current |
|---|---|
| Handle | URL handle |
| Body (HTML) | Description |
| Published | Published on online store |
| Variant SKU | SKU |
| Variant Price | Price |
| Image Src | Product image URL |
| Variant Image | Variant image URL |
Can a product CSV contain custom columns?
Shopify documents Collection as the only ordinary extra column. Market columns vary by configured market, Google Shopping columns share a prefix, and product metafields use a documented namespace/key header pattern. Variant metafields are not supported in product CSV import/export.
What should I do next?
Use a fresh Shopify export or official sample as the reference, select the correct intent in CatalogVigil, resolve blockers, keep a backup, and review Shopify's own import preview before confirming an overwrite.
Primary source: Shopify Help Center: Using CSV files to import and export products. Independent summary; Shopify's current page controls.