Import CSV coordinates with point list, column order, EPSG and field checks
CSV point lists are simple, but column order, point name, CRS and units must be clear.
Field takeaways
- CSV does not carry CRS by itself.
- Point name, easting, northing, elevation and note columns should be clear.
- Lat lon and metre coordinates should not be mixed.
- Check against a known point after import.
- MapLab Survey connects CSV points to field layers and reports.
Column order
There is no universal standard: some write X,Y and others Y,X, some put latitude first. Explicit headers solve half the problems before they occur.
Separators and decimals
A file created under a different regional setting can split 41,5 into two columns or read it as 415. Open it in a text editor and look at the numbers first.
The mandatory check
After import, verify a point you know on the ground. It is the only way to be sure the whole list landed correctly.
Extra columns worth keeping
Add a description and a date column. A list of P1, P2, P3 forces the recipient to guess what each point is.
Try these steps on your own phone.
MapLab Survey handles RTK/GNSS point capture, drawing, area and volume calculations and coordinate conversion, then exports to DXF, KML/KMZ, GeoJSON, Shapefile, GeoPackage, NCZ or CSV. Capture, calculation and export work offline. Live NTRIP corrections and online basemaps need a connection.
Frequently asked questions
Can CSV coordinates be mapped?
Yes, if columns and CRS are correct.
Does CSV carry EPSG?
No.
What is E N Z?
Easting, northing and elevation.
What if points open in the wrong place?
Check CRS and column order.
Technical references
The field guidance in this article is aligned with the technical and official references below.
Related: CSV coordinate list · Excel coordinate list · Coordinate navigation app · MapLab Survey