Simplifying Content Import and Export on Squarespace

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Jun 25, 2025 09:35 PM

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Squarespace

content management

importing and exporting content

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Squarespace allows easy content import from platforms like WordPress and export as XML files. Key points include one-time imports, limitations on content transfer, and the need for manual cleanup post-import. Products can be imported via CSV files, but syncing between platforms isn't possible.

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Squarespace

Content Import and Export on Squarespace

Moving your website content between platforms doesn't have to be a nightmare. Squarespace makes it fairly straightforward to bring content in from other platforms and export your content when you need to move elsewhere.

TL;DR: Key Points

Import content from WordPress, Blogger, Tumblr, and Squarespace 5

Export your content as an XML file for other platforms

Import and export products using CSV files from Shopify, Etsy, and other platforms

Understand what content actually transfers (and what doesn't)

Know the limitations between different Squarespace versions

Remember that imports are one-time copies, not live syncs

Importing Your Content

From Other Platforms

Moving from WordPress, Blogger, or another platform? Here's how to get your content into Squarespace:

Go to Settings > Import & Export in your Squarespace dashboard

Click Import and select your source platform

Follow the prompts to upload your content

Once imported, you'll need to manually publish these pages

Add them to your navigation if you want them visible to visitors

What actually transfers varies by platform. Generally, you'll get your blog posts, images, and basic text content. Don't expect everything to come across perfectly - you'll likely need to tidy things up afterwards.

Importing Products

Running a shop on Shopify, Etsy, or Big Cartel? You can bring your products over:

Go to Commerce > Inventory

Click Import

Choose your platform or upload a CSV file

Follow the instructions to map your product data

The CSV method gives you the most control. You can include product names, descriptions, prices, images, and other details. Just make sure your CSV follows Squarespace's format requirements.

Quick tip: If you've got hundreds of products, split them into smaller CSV files. It's easier to manage and less likely to cause import errors.

Exporting Your Content

Need to move away from Squarespace? Here's how to get your content out:

Go to Settings > Import & Export

Click Export

Download the XML file containing your content

This export includes your blog posts, pages, and embedded images. However, it won't include your site design, layout, or any custom code. Think of it as getting your words and pictures, but not the pretty wrapper they came in.

What You Need to Know

Squarespace doesn't sync content - imports are one-time copies. If you update content on the original platform, it won't automatically update in Squarespace.

Moving between Squarespace sites is tricky - you can't directly transfer content from one Squarespace site to another, except for products. You'd need to export from one site and import to the other platform first.

Version differences matter - moving content between Squarespace 7.0 and 7.1 sites has limitations. The export/import method is often your best bet.

Common Questions

Can I keep my content synced between platforms? No. Squarespace imports create static copies that don't update automatically.

What content actually transfers when I import? Usually blog posts, images, and basic text. Page layouts, custom styling, and complex elements typically don't make the jump.

Can I move content between my Squarespace sites? Not directly. You'll need to export from one site and use a third-party platform as a bridge, or manually copy content.

Quick Definitions

CSV file: A simple spreadsheet format that's easy to transfer between platforms

XML file: A structured file format that preserves your content and basic formatting

Metadata: Extra information about your content (like when it was published or tagged)

The Bottom Line

Squarespace's import and export tools work well for basic content migration. They're not perfect, but they'll save you from manually copying everything. Just remember that some cleanup work is usually needed after any import, and complex site elements rarely transfer cleanly between platforms.

Whether you're moving to Squarespace or planning your exit strategy, understanding these tools helps you stay in control of your content.