How to use the Metaobjects template
What is the Metaobjects Template?
The Metaobjects Template is a structured spreadsheet used to import or update metaobjects into your Shopify store via BulkFlow. Metaobjects are custom data entries (like lookbooks, brand guides, size charts) that extend Shopify’s native capabilities. BulkFlow allows you to manage these entries in bulk with standardized formatting.
Requirements
Make sure you have:
- Downloaded the correct Metaobjects Template from BulkFlow
- A clear understanding of your Metaobject Definitions already set up in Shopify
NOTE: You must define the Metaobject structure (definitions and fields) in Shopify before importing. Otherwise, Shopify may treat them as unstructured and may not save your data properly.
How to fill the Metaobjects Template
Step 1: Create your Metaobject Definition in Shopify
Before filling out the template, you’ll need to create your metaobject definition directly in your Shopify admin.
To do this, log in to your Shopify Admin and navigate to Settings → Metafields and Metaobjects. From this section, select the part of your store where you want to add structured data — for example, Products, Blog posts, or any other supported resource — then click Add definition to begin creating a new metaobject structure.
For detailed steps, you can also refer to Shopify’s official guide on creating metaobject definitions.
Step 2: Download the Metaobjects template
From the BulkFlow Dashboard, click on Download Template. A dropdown menu will appear — choose the option labeled Metaobjects Template.
Step 3: Fill in the required fields
Column | Description | Value Format & Example |
Metaobject Type | The internal Shopify name of the metaobject definition | Text (e.g., lookbook, size_chart) |
Handle | Unique identifier/slug for the metaobject | Alphanumeric or hyphenated (e.g., autumn-look-2025) |
Field: namespace.key | A metafield for the metaobject (one per column) | Varies (e.g., text, file_reference, product_reference)Example column header: Field: lookbook.image |
Published | Whether this metaobject is published | TRUE / FALSE (e.g., TRUE) |
Published At | Scheduled publish time (optional) | YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM:SS UTC (e.g., 2025-07-30 15:30:00) |
Updated At *(optional)* | Last modified time (optional, for record keeping) | YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM:SS UTC (e.g., 2025-07-30 13:15:00) |
Step 4: Save the file correctly
Save your filled template before uploading to BulkFlow.
Tips
- You must create the Metaobject Definition in Shopify before importing.
- All field names must follow this format: Field: namespace.key.
- Capitalization doesn't matter: Field: Custom.Material = field: custom.material
- You can have multiple fields, each with its own column (e.g., Field: lookbook.title, Field: lookbook.image, Field: lookbook.products)
- Each Handle must be unique per metaobject type.
Frequently asked Questions
1. What happens if I use an undefined metaobject type?
Shopify will reject the data or treat it as unstructured. Always define the metaobject in Shopify admin first.
2. What if I miss the Field: namespace.key format?
BulkFlow will not detect the field as a valid metaobject field, and you'll get a formatting error.
Updated on: 04/08/2025
Thank you!