How to Import a GEDCOM File

Transfer your existing family tree data into AncestryCodex using the GEDCOM format.

What is GEDCOM?

GEDCOM (GEnealogical Data COMmunication) is the standard format for exchanging genealogy data between software programs. AncestryCodex supports both GEDCOM 5.5.1 and the newer GEDCOM 7 standard.

Before You Import

Step-by-Step Import

1. Export from your current software
   • In your genealogy software, choose Export or Save As
   • Select GEDCOM format (GEDCOM 7 preferred, 5.5.1 also works)
   • Save the .ged file to your computer
2. Access the Import feature
   • Go to Admin Panel > GEDCOM
   • Or click Import GEDCOM from the dashboard
3. Upload your file
   • Click Choose File
   • Select your .ged file
   • Wait for the file to upload
4. Review import options
   • Replace existing data - Removes current data (use carefully!)
   • Merge with existing - Adds to current data, attempts to match duplicates
   • Import as new tree - Keeps separate from existing data
5. Start import
   • Click Import
   • Wait for the process to complete
   • Review the import summary

Import Summary

After import, you'll see a summary showing:

• Individuals imported
• Families created
• Sources added
• Media files referenced (but not imported - see below)
• Warnings or errors encountered

Importing Media

GEDCOM files reference media but don't contain the actual files. To import photos:

1. After GEDCOM import, go to Media > Missing Files
2. You'll see a list of referenced files
3. Upload the actual image files
4. The system will match them to the correct individuals

Common Issues

Problem	Solution
Import fails immediately	Check file size limits in Admin > Users settings
Character encoding errors	Ensure GEDCOM file uses UTF-8 encoding
Missing relationships	Check import warnings; some may need manual linking
Duplicate entries	Use the Merge Duplicates tool after import

After Import

1. Browse your family tree to verify data
2. Check the Warnings page for any issues
3. Upload referenced media files
4. Review and approve AI place standardizations
5. Set privacy levels for living individuals