Epicor’s Data Management Tool (DMT) is one of the most powerful utilities available for bulk data uploads, configuration, and migration tasks. But with great power comes the risk of critical data errors that can ripple across your ERP system. At Epicforce Tech, our Epicor consultants routinely help clients streamline their DMT processes while avoiding common pitfalls that lead to data corruption, downtime, or user frustration.

This guide compiles practical, field-tested DMT tips to help Epicor users import data correctly the first time.

What Is Epicor DMT?

Epicor’s Data Management Tool (DMT) allows administrators to upload large datasets—customers, parts, suppliers, orders, and more—into the Epicor ERP system. It is widely used during initial implementation, system upgrades, data corrections, and mass updates.

While DMT supports speed and efficiency, it demands precise execution. Missing fields, mismatched formats, and unvalidated values can break processes or introduce inaccurate records.

Why Data Import Errors Happen

Even experienced users can run into issues. Common reasons include:

• Incorrect field mapping

• Dependency violations (for example, referencing a customer that does not exist)

• Missing required fields

• Using outdated templates

• BPM conflicts during upload

• Using the wrong data types (such as text instead of numeric)

Understanding these causes is the first step toward preventing them.

1. Always Start with the Latest DMT Templates

Epicor provides Excel templates specific to each table and business object. Always download the latest version from your DMT utility before starting an import task. Templates are updated with field requirements and structural changes.

Tip from Epicforce Tech:
Save master versions of frequently used templates, but verify each time that no changes have occurred after an upgrade or patch. Never assume the template is still current.

2. Validate Data Before Importing

Always check for:

• Duplicates

• Special characters

• Leading and trailing spaces

• Date formats

• Currency or unit inconsistencies

Recommended steps:

• Use Excel formulas to detect anomalies

• Run sample data through a test company in Epicor

• Have a second pair of eyes review critical imports

3. Understand Table Dependencies

Epicor’s relational data model means that certain tables depend on others. For example:

• You cannot import Customer Contacts unless the Customer record already exists

• You cannot load Sales Orders if Part and Customer tables are not populated

Epicforce Tech Tip:
Create a checklist of prerequisite tables for each major data category. Load data in logical order to avoid dependency errors.

4. Use the “Test Mode” in DMT

DMT includes a “Test Mode” that processes records without committing changes. This allows you to catch errors and preview issues.

When to use it:

• First-time template use

• Post-upgrade structure checks

• New user training

• High-volume imports with multiple dependencies

5. Disable BPMs Where Needed

BPMs (Business Process Management rules) often intercept data imports and apply validations or restrictions.

Common issues caused by BPMs:

• Preventing certain status changes

• Requiring additional fields not in the template

• Rejecting automated updates based on workflow

Consultant Insight from Epicforce Tech:
If a DMT import is failing but the data is valid, check if BPMs are firing. Temporarily disabling or modifying BPMs may be necessary, but always document the change and revert once the import is complete.

6. Clean Up Your Source Data

Bad data in leads to bad data out. Use external cleanup methods before bringing records into Epicor. This includes:

• Deduplication

• Standardizing naming conventions

• Trimming outdated records

• Cross-referencing with active master data

Bonus tip:
Use Excel’s “Remove Duplicates” and “Trim” functions or Power Query for more advanced cleansing.

7. Break Up Large Files

Epicor DMT handles large uploads, but not all systems respond well to thousands of rows in one go. Breaking files into smaller chunks can:

• Improve import speed

• Isolate error-causing rows

• Reduce rollback complications

Start with a 100–500 record test, then scale.

8. Use Consistent Field Formatting

Even small inconsistencies, such as “Yes” versus “Y” or differing date formats, can cause failures.

Examples of formatting issues:

Epicforce Tech Pro Tip:
Create formatting standards and macros for recurring import tasks.

9. Document Every Import

Always keep a record of:

• File name and upload date

• Number of records

• User who performed the import

• Any changes made to BPMs or fields

This ensures traceability for audits, support, or post-import analysis.

10. Post-Import Validation Is Critical

After an import, validate that:

• Records are visible and complete

• Workflows trigger as expected

• Transactions post correctly

• No unintended downstream effects occurred

Quick check methods:

• Run BAQs against imported records

• Verify with functional users

• Test edge cases

Bonus: Common Epicor DMT Errors and Fixes

Conclusion

Epicor DMT is a high-impact tool when used correctly. The tips shared above are based on years of hands-on experience by our Epicor consultants at Epicforce Tech, helping clients across manufacturing, distribution, and services.

When errors occur, they do not just waste time; they affect business operations. That is why DMT strategy should be treated as part of your core data governance process.

If you are facing issues with bulk uploads or want to avoid data import risks altogether, Epicforce Tech offers practical, hands-on Epicor consulting to optimize your entire ERP workflow, from BAQs to DMT and beyond.