Import CSI or NAHB codes into QuickBooks Desktop

Below are spreadsheets that can be used to import service items into the service items list of QuickBooks Desktop. For commercial contractors, either CSI 95 or 2016 format is recommended and for residential contractors NAHB.

  • Importing service items is optional. This is typically used when setting up a new QuickBooks Desktop (QBD) company or when switching to an industry‑standard coding structure.

  1. Download one of the following template Microsoft Excel (*.xlsx) files and review the items:
  2. Update the expense and income GL Chart of Account columns in the spreadsheet.

    The GL Chart of Accounts referenced in the spreadsheet must exist in your QuickBooks Desktop file before importing the file.

  3. Save the spreadsheet.
  1. In QuickBooks Desktop, select File > Utilities > Import > Excel File.
  2. In the Add/Edit Multiple List Entries dialog, select No.
  3. Select Advanced Import.
  4. In the form, select the Microsoft Excel file.
  5. Select the Codes sheet.
  6. In the Mapping section, select Add New.
  7. Enter a Mapping Name, such as Codes.
  8. Select Item for the Import Type.
  9. Match the following fields:
    • Type = Type
    • Name = Item Full Name
    • Is Reimbursable Charge = Reimbursable
    • Description = Description
    • Description on Purchase Transactions = Description
    • Income Account = Income Account
    • Expense/COGS Account = Expense Account
  10. Select Save.
  11. Select Import.

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Posted April 27, 2026 © 2026 The Sage Group plc or its affiliates ("Sage") or its licensors. All trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. Use of non-Sage trademarks is not an endorsement of any person or product.