How to Import/Export Product Options Across Shopify Stores

If you manage multiple Shopify stores or are migrating to a new storefront, replicating custom product options can be time-consuming. Thankfully, with the right tools, you can import and export product options easily across Shopify stores—saving time and maintaining consistency.

In this guide, we’ll cover step-by-step methods using apps like SM Product Options and CSV exports, so you can scale or migrate without manual rework.

Why Import/Export Product Options?

  • 💡 Time efficiency: No need to recreate option sets manually for every product or store.
  • 🎯 Consistency: Maintain uniform user experience and branding across multiple storefronts.
  • 📈 Scalability: Ideal for agencies or brands managing several Shopify stores or expanding into new markets.

Method 1: Use SM Product Options – Import/Export Feature

If you're using SM Product Options, the app provides a built-in tool to handle bulk data operations.

Step-by-Step: Export Options

  1. Login to your Shopify admin and open the SM Product Options app.
  2. Go to the Options page or Option Sets page depending on what you want to export.
  3. Click the Export button. This will download a CSV file with your custom fields and logic.
  4. Review the file and make edits if needed (use Excel or Google Sheets).

Step-by-Step: Import Options

  1. Login to the destination Shopify store where you want to import options.
  2. Install or open SM Product Options on that store.
  3. Go to Options > Import and upload the previously downloaded CSV file.
  4. Review the preview to make sure everything maps correctly, then click Import.

Important Notes:

  • Ensure product handles match exactly between source and target stores.
  • If the product doesn’t exist in the destination store, options won’t be applied.
  • You can also duplicate option sets across multiple products after import.

Method 2: Shopify Native Export (Only for Variants)

Shopify’s native export via Products > Export is limited. It only exports:

  • Standard product details
  • Built-in variants (color, size)

Limitations: It does not export custom fields, image swatches, conditional logic, or line item properties created by third-party apps.

Alternative Tools for Large-Scale Sync

If you’re managing multiple stores and need full data synchronization, consider using:

  • Matrixify – Great for advanced bulk edits and importing metafields.
  • Shopify API + Custom Script – For advanced users or developers with automation needs.
  • Shopify Plus Stores – Use Shopify’s Transporter app for complex store-to-store migrations.

Use Case Example

You’re running a print-on-demand business with two Shopify stores (US and UK). You’ve created a detailed engraving option set with SM Product Options on your US store. Instead of recreating them manually, you export from the US store and import into the UK one within minutes—ensuring the same customization fields and logic.

Tips for Managing Option Imports

  • Always test with one product before importing to all.
  • Use clear naming conventions for your options and sets (e.g., “T-shirt Custom Text”).
  • Clean up unused options or sets post-import to avoid confusion.
  • Match product handles perfectly between both stores for seamless import.

Final Thoughts

Replicating product options across Shopify stores doesn’t have to be a manual, tedious task. With tools like SM Product Options and smart use of import/export functions, you can scale faster, stay consistent, and focus more on growing your brand than rebuilding forms.

Need help importing your product customization data? Reach out to our team for white-glove assistance or documentation.

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