Product CSV file importing error “The file doesn’t exist”

It sounds like you’re encountering a common issue when trying to import CSV files into WordPress for product migration. This problem can be due to several factors. Let’s troubleshoot this step by step:

1. File Format and Encoding: Ensure your CSV file is correctly formatted and encoded in UTF-8. Sometimes, issues arise due to incorrect formatting or encoding. You can open and save your file in a program like Excel or Google Sheets, ensuring to save it as a UTF-8 encoded CSV.
2. WordPress and Plugin Version: Make sure your WordPress and any import plugin you are using (like WooCommerce’s product importer) are up to date. Compatibility issues might cause such errors.
3. File Permissions: The error could also be related to file permissions on your server. WordPress might be able to upload the file but not read it afterward. Check with your hosting provider if you’re not sure how to verify or change file permissions.
4. PHP Settings: Sometimes, server settings in PHP like upload_max_filesize and post_max_size can cause issues. If your CSV file is large, you might need to increase these values. You can check these settings in your WordPress admin under Tools > Site Health > Info > Server.
5. Plugin Conflict: There might be a conflict with another plugin. Deactivate all other plugins and try the import again. If it works, reactivate each plugin one by one to find the culprit.
6. Theme Conflict: Similarly, a theme can cause conflicts. Try switching to a default WordPress theme like Twenty Twenty-One and attempt the import.
7. Browser Issues: Sometimes, browser extensions or settings might interfere with the process. Try a different browser or an incognito window.
8. Check Error Logs: If you have access, check the error logs on your server. They can provide more specific information about what’s going wrong.
9. Using Alternative Methods: If all else fails, consider using a different method for importing your products. For example, there are plugins specifically designed for migrating content from Wix to WordPress.

I have tried WP sample CSV file – downloaded it without opening and tried to upload this – doesn’t work as well. I assume sample file is correct format, not too large in size etc. I tried to deactivate all themes, used Storefront, deactivated all plugins… nothing of this helps.

Sometimes, it’s not about the file size but how much your server can handle at a stretch. or you can go with those approach that i find really interesting to do:

1. Uploading the File – Old School Style: How about bypassing WordPress and uploading the CSV straight to your server using FTP or your hosting file manager? Then, pick it from there in your WordPress importer.
2. PHP Version – Is it a Match? It’s always good to check if your PHP version and WordPress are getting along. Too old or too new PHP versions can be a bit finicky with WordPress.
3. Peek Inside the CSV: Even though it’s a sample file, a quick look wouldn’t hurt. Sometimes, even the right files have something odd that throws a spanner in the works.
4. Try a Different Import Buddy: If you’re still stuck, maybe another import plugin might gel better with your setup. There’s a bunch out there, each with its own quirks.

Going step by step with these might shine a light on what’s tripping up your import. And if something specific pops up in your tests, let me know! We can tackle it together.

look into a plugin like WP All Import https://www.wpallimport.com/