I have added extra fields now to the csv file. So now I have the field names for both varients and extra fields list out as the first row and fill in the appropriate values for each field.

Hello,

I’m currently perfecting a method to automatate import from xcart to magento.
I choose a bit different approach, i’m reading xcart databse on my own and map it to objects.
I then use Magento objects to populate magento database.
It’s doesnt acctaully work yet, but we could probably share some experience.

My goal was to do as little as possible on the Xcart side of things and utilize what it already had. I also wanted to see how the Magento data flow imports would work too and sadly I have been having more issues on that end then from Xcart.

I am currently just trying to get a csv file, using a spreadsheet app, that will not give me the dreaded “skip import row”. As of yet no luck even with all the forum posts.

Well, the possible problems with csv and data format used that way, was what made me to choose a programistic approach. There are only few objects to use in Magento. The major problem is providing environment for agentos objects. There is alot of object coupling (very very bad, -10 points for Magento dev team).  I strugle more with XCart.
It’s easy to read, but there is not enough information.

For mising fields i use Magento Attributes. In my case the store is quite simple, it just has quite some products.

I think you are on the right track and to steer clear of the Data Flow section - it is just not mature enough yet. I finally have a working import but it required much modification to the csv file.

I did run across a thread regarding a preliminary api. See my next blog post regarding my experience with “The Magento Data Flow”.