Data Loader Guide

Data Loader
When to Use Data Loader
Using Data Loader
Data Types Supported by Data Loader
Export Data
Define Data Loader Field Mappings
Insert, Update, or Delete Data Using Data Loader
Perform Mass Updates
Performing Mass Deletes
Uploading Attachments
Upload Content with the Data Loader
Reviewing Data Loader Output Files
Data Import Limits
View the Data Loader Log File
Running in Batch Mode (Windows Only)
Command-Line Quick Start (Windows Only)
Data Loader Third-Party Licenses
PDF

Newer Version Available

This content describes an older version of this product. View Latest

Performing Mass Deletes

Available in: both Salesforce Classic and Lightning Experience
Available in: Enterprise, Performance, Unlimited, Developer, and Database.com Editions

To delete a large number of records at one time using Data Loader, we recommend the following steps:

  1. As a backup measure, export the records you wish to delete, being sure to select all fields. (See Export Data.) Save an extra copy of the generated CSV file.
  2. Next, export the records you wish to delete, this time using only the record ID as the desired criterion.
  3. Launch the Data Loader and follow the delete or hard delete wizard. Map only the ID column. See Insert, Update, or Delete Data Using Data Loader.
  4. After the operation, review your success and error log files. See Reviewing Data Loader Output Files.