Import batch numbers into Katana to streamline inventory tracking and ensure accurate batch management.
Katana allows you to import batch numbers for products and materials using a spreadsheet template. This is especially useful when:
You're just starting with Katana and want to migrate existing batch data.
You need to bulk update or add new batch information.
Note: Batch tracking requires the Full Traceability add-on (automatically included in Professional plans).
How to import batch numbers
1. Download the import template
Go to Settings > Data import.
Scroll to the Add new batch / lot numbers section.
Click Download data to get your import template.
This template includes:
Items with batch tracking enabled (excluding archived items).
Empty rows for batch-enabled items with no existing stock.
2. Fill in the template
Here’s a breakdown of the fields in the template:
Field | Description |
Katana ID (required) | Used internally to match with existing items. Not visible in the UI. If empty or invalid, the row is skipped. |
Item name / Variant code / Item variant | Used to identify the product or material. You cannot create new items via this import. |
Batch number (required) | Each row should represent a single batch for an item variant. Must be unique per variant. |
Optional. Must be 3–40 characters. Only imported if barcode tracking is enabled and automatic barcode generation is disabled. | |
Expiration date | Optional. Use a date format. |
Created date | Optional. Use a date format. Defaults to import date if left blank. |
Initial stock quantity (required) | Adds quantity to your stock for that batch. Must be a number. |
Initial stock cost per unit | Optional. Defines the unit cost for this batch. Katana will recalculate the average cost for the item variant. |
Location | Optional. If left blank, items are added to your Main Location. Unknown locations will cause the row to be skipped. |
Tips:
If a batch number already exists for a variant, only the last row with that batch number will be imported.
If you split an item into multiple batches, enter each one on a separate row with duplicated variant details.
3. Upload the file
Go to Settings > Data import.
Click Upload data under Add new batch / lot numbers.
Katana will validate the format and display any import errors.
If successful, Katana shows how many rows were imported.
Imported batches will automatically create stock adjustments per location. You can review them at Stock screen > Stock adjustments tab.
Behavior notes
Imported batch quantities reduce the corresponding quantity from the “Unbatched” batch (if available).
Katana does not allow importing batches with empty or duplicate required fields.
Average cost is recalculated across all stock, not per batch.
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