MongodbHow-ToBeginner · 3 min read

How to Use mongoimport: Import Data into MongoDB Easily

Use the mongoimport command-line tool to import data files like JSON, CSV, or TSV into a MongoDB database. Specify the target database, collection, and file format with options like --db, --collection, and --file.

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Syntax

The basic syntax of mongoimport includes specifying the database, collection, and input file. You can also set the file type and connection details.

--db: The database name to import data into.
--collection: The collection name where data will be inserted.
--file: The path to the data file to import.
--type: The file format, such as json, csv, or tsv. Defaults to JSON.
--headerline: For CSV/TSV files, uses the first line as field names.
--drop: Drops the collection before importing data.

bash

mongoimport --db <database> --collection <collection> --file <filename> --type <filetype> [--headerline] [--drop]

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Example

This example imports a JSON file named products.json into the store database and items collection.

bash

mongoimport --db store --collection items --file products.json --jsonArray

Output

2024-06-01T12:00:00.000+0000 connected to: mongodb://localhost/ 2024-06-01T12:00:00.100+0000 imported 5 documents

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Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes include:

Not specifying --jsonArray when importing a JSON array file, causing import failure.
For CSV/TSV files, forgetting --headerline to use the first row as field names.
Not having MongoDB server running or incorrect connection parameters.
Importing into the wrong database or collection due to typos.

bash

Wrong:
mongoimport --db store --collection items --file products.json

Right:
mongoimport --db store --collection items --file products.json --jsonArray

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Quick Reference

Option	Description
--db	Target database name
--collection	Target collection name
--file	Path to the input data file
--type	Input file format, default is json
--jsonArray	Use if JSON file contains an array of documents
--headerline	Use first line as field names for CSV/TSV
--drop	Drop collection before importing data

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Key Takeaways

Always specify the database and collection with --db and --collection.

Use --jsonArray when importing JSON files containing arrays.

For CSV/TSV files, include --headerline to use the first row as field names.

Ensure MongoDB server is running before importing data.

Use --drop to clear the collection before import if needed.