- Duplicate Column Names: All column headers must be unique. For example, do not include the same field (such as “Visit Date”) more than once. Duplicate headers will block uploads.
- Datetime Format Requirements: Date fields must use ISO 8601 format (
YYYY-MM-DD), unless otherwise specified. Spreadsheet editors (like Excel) often auto-format dates; double-check and reformat as needed. For best results, use Numbers or CSV tools that preserve formatting. - Character Limits: Text field values must not exceed 32 characters.
- No Special Characters or Spaces in Field Labels: For custom fields, avoid all special characters and spaces in labels.
- File Encoding: Save your metadata as UTF-8 encoded CSV to prevent issues with hidden or non-printable characters.
Error messages reference
Below are the specific error messages you may encounter and how to resolve them:Label and uniqueness errors
System metadata errors
Metadata type errors
Template integrity errors
Numeric value errors
Date value errors
Sample matching errors
If you have followed all of the above and continue to have issues, please contact support with your metadata file attached for further assistance.