Use Existing File

Import data from files already uploaded to your WordPress server

Overview

The "Use Existing File" option allows you to import data from files that are already stored on your WordPress server, typically in the /wp-content/uploads/ directory.

This is useful when you've already uploaded files via FTP, through WordPress Media Library, or from previous imports. You can reuse these files without re-uploading them.

When to Use Existing Files

  • Files already uploaded via FTP/SFTP
  • Files uploaded through WordPress Media Library
  • Reusing files from previous imports
  • Files placed on server by automated processes
  • Large files that are easier to manage via FTP
  • Files that need to be accessed by multiple imports

How to Use Existing Files

Step 1: Select Option

In Step 2 of the import wizard:

  1. Find the Use existing file option
  2. Click to select it
  3. The file path input will appear

Step 2: Enter File Path

You can specify the file path in several ways:

Method 1: Manual Entry

  1. Type or paste the file path in the input field
  2. Path should be relative to WordPress root or absolute
  3. Example: /wp-content/uploads/primelink/products.csv
  4. Or: uploads/primelink/products.csv

Method 2: Recent Paths

  1. Click the Recent paths dropdown
  2. Select a previously used file path
  3. The path will be automatically filled in

Method 3: Browse

  1. Click the Browse button
  2. A file browser will open
  3. Navigate to your file in the uploads directory
  4. Select the file
  5. The path will be automatically filled in

Step 3: Refresh (Optional)

If you've recently uploaded a file:

  1. Click the Refresh button
  2. This will update the list of available files
  3. Useful if files were added via FTP or other methods

Step 4: Verify and Continue

After entering the file path:

  1. Verify the path is correct
  2. Click Next to proceed
  3. PrimeLink will check if the file exists
  4. If found, the file will be parsed automatically
  5. Continue with the rest of the import wizard

File Path Format

Relative Paths

Paths relative to WordPress root:

  • wp-content/uploads/primelink/products.csv
  • uploads/primelink/products.csv
  • /wp-content/uploads/primelink/products.csv

Absolute Paths

Full server paths (if you know them):

  • /var/www/html/wp-content/uploads/primelink/products.csv
  • Use absolute paths only if necessary
  • Relative paths are recommended for portability

Common Locations

  • PrimeLink uploads: wp-content/uploads/primelink/
  • WordPress uploads: wp-content/uploads/
  • Custom folder: Any folder within wp-content/uploads/

File Requirements

File Must Exist

The file must already be on your server:

  • Uploaded via FTP/SFTP
  • Uploaded through WordPress Media Library
  • Placed by another plugin or script
  • From a previous PrimeLink import

File Permissions

Ensure the file is readable:

  • File permissions should allow WordPress to read it
  • Typically: 644 or 664
  • Check file permissions if import fails

Supported Formats

  • CSV (.csv)
  • XML (.xml)
  • XLSX (.xlsx)
  • XLS (.xls)

Best Practices

  • Organize files: Keep import files in a dedicated folder (e.g., primelink/)
  • Use consistent naming: Name files clearly for easy identification
  • Check file exists: Verify file path before starting import
  • Use recent paths: Save time by selecting from recent paths
  • Keep files updated: Ensure files on server are current versions
  • Backup files: Keep backups of important import files
  • Clean up old files: Remove unused files to save server space

Troubleshooting

File Not Found

  • Verify the file path is correct
  • Check file actually exists on server
  • Ensure path is relative to WordPress root
  • Try using Browse button to locate file
  • Check file permissions are correct

Path Format Issues

  • Use forward slashes (/) not backslashes
  • Don't include domain or full URL
  • Start with wp-content/ or /wp-content/
  • Avoid spaces in file paths

File Not Accessible

  • Check file permissions (should be readable)
  • Verify file is within WordPress uploads directory
  • Ensure WordPress can access the file location
  • Check server file system permissions

Next Steps

📤 Upload from Computer

Upload files directly from your computer

Learn More →
🌐 Import from URL

Import directly from a remote URL

Learn More →
📁 FTP / SFTP

Import files from FTP or SFTP servers

Learn More →