Supplier spreadsheets often arrive looking complete until you compare the SKU, title, price, image and variant fields row by row. A structured preflight can catch obvious problems before an import attempt. The goal is not to certify the catalog; it is to create a list of questions someone can resolve with the supplier.
1. Start with three indispensable columns
Confirm that your file has usable SKU, Title and Price fields. Common exports name these columns differently, so inspect the actual headers rather than assuming that every supplier uses a standard template. Prices should be independently confirmed in the intended currency before importing.
2. Investigate duplicate SKUs rather than deleting them blindly
Two rows sharing a SKU can indicate a copy/paste error, a conflicting product identity, or an intentionally repeated value in a supplier-specific structure. Do not silently merge records. Flag the duplicates, compare supplier references and options, then document the resolution. The same caution applies to repeated Shopify URL handles and product titles.
3. Classify missing prices, images and descriptions
Blank or malformed prices warrant a hold pending supplier confirmation. A zero price may be legitimate but should be explicitly reviewed. A URL beginning with HTTPS is not proof that an image exists or that you have rights to use it. Missing product descriptions require verified supplier facts, not invented claims.
4. Separate HOLD from REVIEW
Use HOLD when essential information is missing or contradictory, such as an invalid price or duplicate SKU requiring a decision. Use REVIEW for suspicious or incomplete supporting information, such as repeated titles or empty image fields. A row with no issues under these limited checks is only SCREENED—not approved for import.
5. Export the exceptions and obtain a human sign-off
Keep a row-level register showing the original row, SKU, issue type and action owner. Review all variants, supplier facts, image rights, inventory and Shopify-specific requirements separately. Test compatibility against the merchant's intended import format before any live publication.
Try an example without sharing your data
Use the free 10-row supplier CSV checker to screen a small file locally in your browser. It does not require store access or transmit the CSV to ATLAS. For a transparent walkthrough, inspect the fictional ten-row example: six rows marked REVIEW and four HOLD. Those are fictional inputs, not customer results.
Need the full file prepared?
The $149 ATLAS Supplier Catalog Cleanup pilot covers one supplier CSV containing up to 100 simple products. Subject to agreed scope and permitted input, deliverables include a normalized review file, row-level issues, a QA summary and a draft-only Shopify-oriented CSV for human review. It does not include a store import, live publication or an import-success guarantee.
Prefer Upwork checkout? This same fixed-scope, $149 Supplier CSV Cleanup service is also available through Bowleg Systems on Upwork. View the approved Upwork service → Upwork orders include a 4-calendar-day delivery commitment after complete mandatory inputs. Keep any Upwork order, files, and payment inside Upwork.
ATLAS Supply Co. is a Bowleg Systems offering, independent of and not endorsed by Shopify. Do not upload customer PII, passwords or payment information to a CSV preflight tool. Always obtain supplier authorization for product data.