SQL

How to Import Excel Data into SQL Server: Step-by-Step Guide (with Example)

Introduction

Importing data from Excel into SQL Server is a common task for developers, analysts, and database administrators. Whether you're dealing with bulk uploads, legacy data, or reporting, SQL Server provides a built-in Import Wizard to simplify the process.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to import Excel data into SQL Server step by step — with screenshots, a sample Excel file structure, and key tips to avoid common errors.

example Sample Excel Data:

Make sure:

  • The data is in the first worksheet.

  • The first row contains column headers.

Step-by-Step Guide: Import Excel to SQL Server

Step 1: Open SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)

  1. Launch SSMS and connect to your SQL Server instance.

  2. Right-click on the target database (e.g., MyDatabase) and choose: Tasks → Import Data...

Step 2: Choose Data Source (Excel)

  1. In the SQL Server Import and Export Wizard, under Data Source, select: Microsoft Excel

  2. Browse to select your .xlsx file.

  3. Choose the correct Excel version (Excel 2007 or later).

  4. Tick the box: “First row has column names”.

Step 3: Choose Destination

  • Under Destination, choose:SQL Server Native Client

  • Provide:

    • Server name

    • Authentication type

    • Database name (e.g., MyDatabase)

Step 4: Select Source Tables and Views

  1. You’ll see a list of sheets (e.g., Sheet1$).

  2. Tick the sheet to import (e.g., Sheet1$).

  3. You can click “Edit Mappings” to:

    • Modify column data types

    • Change the target table name (e.g., dbo.Employees)

Step 5: Review and Run the Import

  1. Click Next, then Finish.

  2. The import will run and display a summary.

  3. If successful, you’ll see: “X rows transferred successfully.”

Verify Imported Data in SQL Server

Run this query in your SQL database:

 
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