The Problem: Failed Imports
I was recently trying to import data for a theme purchased from ThemeForest. However, when I tried to import the data, it gave me a massive list of error messages.
The Error Log
You might see a long list of failures related to product tags, categories, and order statuses, similar to this:
Failed to import product_tag asymmetrical
Failed to import product_tag athletic
Failed to import product_tag bomber
Failed to import product_tag bracelets
Failed to import shop_order_status cancelled
Failed to import product_tag ceramic
Failed to import product_tag clutch
Failed to import product_tag collar
Failed to import product_tag collarless
Failed to import product_tag colorful
Failed to import product_tag comfortable
Failed to import shop_order_status completed
Failed to import product_tag contrast
Failed to import product_tag cotton
Failed to import product_tag elastic
Failed to import product_tag embellishments
Failed to import product_type external
Failed to import shop_order_status failed
Failed to import product_tag flat
Failed to import product_type grouped
Failed to import product_tag handmade
Failed to import product_tag jacket
Failed to import product_tag knit
Failed to import product_tag lambskin
Failed to import product_tag leather
Failed to import product_tag lightweight
Failed to import product_tag mini
Failed to import shop_order_status on-hold
Failed to import product_tag pattern
Failed to import shop_order_status pending
Failed to import product_tag pockets
Failed to import shop_order_status processing
Failed to import shop_order_status refunded
Failed to import product_tag sandal
Failed to import product_tag sandals
Failed to import product_tag shirt
Failed to import product_tag short
Failed to import product_tag silk
Failed to import product_type simple
Failed to import product_tag skinny
Failed to import product_tag soft
Failed to import product_tag sport
Failed to import product_tag strap
Failed to import product_tag studs
Failed to import product_tag sweater
Failed to import product_tag sweatshirt
Failed to import product_tag tencel
Failed to import product_tag test
Failed to import product_tag trousers
Failed to import product_type variable
Failed to import product_tag viscose
Failed to import product_tag wool
Failed to import product_tag woven
Failed to import product_tag yarn
Failed to import product_cat Accessories
Failed to import product_cat Bags
Failed to import product_cat Bottoms
Failed to import product_cat Denim
Failed to import product_cat Dresses
Failed to import product_cat Gifts
Failed to import product_cat Outerwear
Failed to import product_cat Sale
Failed to import product_cat Shoes
Failed to import product_cat Tops
Failed to import product_cat Shirts
Failed to import product_cat Sweaters
Failed to import product_cat Tees
Why This Happens
The error occurs because the import file contains data specific to WooCommerce (like product_tag, shop_order_status, and product_cat). If you try to import this data without the WooCommerce plugin installed and active, WordPress doesn't know how to handle these specific post types and taxonomies.
The Solution: Install WooCommerce
To fix these errors, the solution is simple:
- Install the WooCommerce Plugin: Go to Plugins > Add New and search for "WooCommerce".
- Activate the Plugin: Ensure it is active on your site.
- Re-run the Import: Try importing the data again.
After installing and activating the plugin, the issue was resolved immediately, and all tags and categories imported successfully.