> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.sable.salon/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Import your clients

> Bring your client list from your old system so nobody gets left behind.

Your client list is the most valuable thing you're bringing from your old
system. Sable imports it from a spreadsheet file so you're not retyping
hundreds of names.

## Export from your old system first

Every booking platform can export clients to a spreadsheet (usually a CSV
file). Do that export first and give it a quick look. You want names, phone
numbers, and email addresses at minimum. Phone numbers matter most, since
that's how appointment reminders and text conversations reach the right
person.

## Run the import

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open the importer">
    Go to **Clients** in the sidebar and select **Import**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose how the import should treat your current list">
    Sable asks one important question up front:

    * **Add to current list** keeps every client you already have in Sable
      and skips duplicates from the file. This is the right choice for
      almost everyone.
    * **Replace current list** archives clients who are *not* in the file.
      Sable protects anyone with an upcoming appointment from being
      archived, but this option is for starting fresh on purpose, not for
      topping up.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Upload the file and confirm">
    Pick your exported file and let the import run. When it finishes, your
    list under **Clients** shows everyone with their email, phone, and last
    appointment.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## After the import

* Spot-check a handful of familiar names. Open a profile or two and confirm
  the phone number and email came through.
* Use **Add Client** for the walk-in you remember at 10 PM. The importer is
  for bulk, not one-offs.
* Archived someone by mistake? The **Archived** view on the Clients page is
  where they went. Nothing from an import gets deleted.

<Note>
  Text messaging has its own rules. Importing a client doesn't by itself
  give you consent to send them marketing texts. See
  [SMS consent and conversations](/guides/messaging/sms-consent-and-conversations)
  before your first campaign.
</Note>

## Related

* [Profiles, formulas, allergies, and photos](/guides/clients/profiles-formulas-allergies-and-photos)
* [SMS consent and conversations](/guides/messaging/sms-consent-and-conversations)

**Still stuck?** Visit the [Help Center](/help) to submit a support ticket.