Product Import via XML and CSV: modules, automation and server performance

Product import is an essential part of e-commerce, especially for shops with large assortments or frequently changing supplier prices and stock levels. XML and CSV files allow automatic synchronization of products, descriptions, prices, stock quantities and images. However, import processes also place significant load on the server — therefore it is important to understand how they work and how to optimize them.

1. Data formats: XML and CSV

CSV

• Simple table-based format
• Ideal for updating prices and stock values
• Easily edited in Excel or Google Sheets

XML

• Structured and hierarchical
• Suitable for catalogs with attributes and variations
• Widely used by suppliers, ERP systems and wholesalers

2. Import modules for different CMS

PrestaShop

• Built-in CSV import
• Advanced Importer, Easy Import
• Store Manager
• Custom scripts — best for 50,000+ products

Joomla + VirtueMart

• RO CSVI — powerful import/export tool
• Supports XML, CSV and CRON automation

WooCommerce

• WP All Import
• Product CSV Import Suite

OpenCart

• Total Import PRO
• XML/CSV Product Import Pro

3. Why does import create server load?

• PHP-FPM — file parsing, image generation, processing objects
• MySQL/MariaDB — thousands of SELECT, INSERT and UPDATE queries
• File system — image downloading, writing thousands of files
• RAM — large XML files may require 1–2 GB

4. Import automation

Import can be triggered:

• via CRON (usually at night)
• manually in the admin panel
• via supplier API or webhooks

Example CRON command

php /home/shop/import/update_products.php >> /var/log/import.log 2>&1

5. Optimization techniques

• Split imports: prices, stock, images separately
• Update only changed fields
• Optimize database (indexes, clean logs)
• Use Redis or Memcached caching
• Limit PHP-FPM processes

6. When to choose a custom script?

• Catalog contains 50,000+ products
• Complex XML files
• High performance required
• Specific update rules needed

Advantages

• Minimal server load
• Full control over SQL queries
• Flexible business logic
• Detailed logs

🛠 Need assistance?

SOLLER.LV develops import modules, writes custom scripts, optimizes databases and resolves performance bottlenecks.

Service price — from €60.50.