Data Loader Guide

Data Loader
When to Use Data Loader
Installing Data Loader
Configure 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
Perform Mass Deletes
Upload Attachments
Upload Content with the Data Loader
Review Data Loader Output Files
Data Import Dates
View the Data Loader Log File
Configure the Data Loader Log File
Running in Batch Mode (Windows Only)
Command-Line Quick Start (Windows Only)
Data Loader Third-Party Licenses
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Perform Mass Updates

Available in: both Salesforce Classic (not available in all orgs) and Lightning Experience
Available in: Enterprise, Performance, Unlimited, and Developer editions

To update a large number of records at one time, we recommend the following steps:

  1. Obtain your data by performing an export of the objects you wish to update, or by running a report. Make sure your report includes the record ID.
  2. As a backup measure, save an extra copy of the generated CSV file.
  3. Open your working file in a CSV editor such as Excel, and update your data.
  4. Launch Data Loader and follow the update wizard. Note that matching is done according to record ID. See Insert, Update, or Delete Data Using Data Loader.
  5. After the operation, review your success and error log files. See Review Data Loader Output Files.
  6. If you made a mistake, use the backup file to update the records to their previous values.