# How to import vendor bill records from a CSV into NetSuite

In NetSuite, use the import template for vendor bill records. Fill one row per line, keep the same invoice number on every line of a bill, test with a few rows, then import.

Importing bills from a CSV means loading many supplier bills into your accounting system from one spreadsheet instead of typing each one.

## Before you start

- Import CSV File permission

## The NetSuite way

Where to find it: Setup > Import/Export > Import Tasks > Import CSV Records

1. Choose Transactions as record type and Vendor Bill as import type.
2. For expenses data choose multiple files to upload (a bill file plus an expenses file). Items-only can use one file.
3. Put a unique external ID or internal ID on every line of the bill and map it to the Reference No. field.
4. Map the vendor by internal or external ID, not by name. Map the account (with number if Use Account Numbers is on) and the exchange rate if you use multiple currencies.
5. If you send Amount, Tax Amount and Gross Amount, Gross must equal Amount plus Tax Amount.
6. Run the import and check the job status.

## Limits in NetSuite

- Do not send transactions with more than 5000 lines.
- Oracle says vendor bills imports are typically for bringing in open payables, not to link to open purchase orders.
- Bills created by CSV import are not routed for approval by SuiteApprovals.

## Common mistakes

- Mapping the vendor by name when the import needs the internal or external ID.
- Importing bills and expecting approval routing, when bills created by CSV import are not routed by SuiteApprovals.

## Common questions

### Where do I import vendor bills from a CSV?

Go to Setup > Import/Export > Import Tasks > Import CSV Records. Choose Transactions as the record type and Vendor Bill as the import type. For expenses data upload a bill file plus an expenses file.

### How do I match the vendor and invoice number in the file?

Map the vendor by internal or external ID, not by name. Put a unique external ID or internal ID on every line of the bill and map it to the Reference No. field.

### Are there size limits or amount rules?

Do not send transactions with more than 5000 lines. If you send Amount, Tax Amount and Gross Amount, Gross must equal Amount plus Tax Amount.

### Can Pulsify import a CSV of bills?

No. Pulsify reads invoice documents. Forward each invoice to your Pulsify address and approve it.

## Sources

- https://docs.oracle.com/en/cloud/saas/netsuite/ns-online-help/section_N427250.html
- https://docs.oracle.com/en/cloud/saas/netsuite/ns-online-help/section_0806110833.html
- https://docs.oracle.com/en/cloud/saas/netsuite/ns-online-help/chapter_N3924743.html

Source: https://www.pulsify.tech/how-to/import-supplier-bills-from-a-csv-in-netsuite/ (last checked 2026-10-19)