How to Fix IMPORTRANGE Errors in Google Sheets

Published: April 27, 2024 - 4 min read

Julian Alvarado

If you’ve ever tried to use the IMPORTRANGE function in Google Sheets to pull data from another spreadsheet, you may have encountered the dreaded “Import Range Internal Error.”

This frustrating issue can disrupt your analyses and leave you scratching your head. In this blog post, we’ll explore what causes this error and provide a step-by-step guide to help you resolve it quickly.

What Is IMPORTRANGE?

IMPORTRANGE is a function in Google Sheets that facilitates the import of a range of cells from a specified spreadsheet into another.

The syntax of the IMPORTRANGE formula comprises two arguments: spreadsheet_url and range_string.

Describing the syntax of the IMPORTRANGE formula with its arguments: spreadsheet_url and range_string in Google Sheets.

The spreadsheet_url is the unique URL of the Google sheet containing the data you want to import, while the range_string defines the specific cells or range from the source spreadsheet.

Common IMPORTRANGE Errors Explained

There are several common errors that users may encounter when using the IMPORTRANGE function:

#REF! Error: This occurs when the IMPORTRANGE function fails to properly link to the specified range.

It may be due to a lack of permissions to the source sheet or because the range is not shared properly.

Explaining the #REF! Error due to improper link in the IMPORTRANGE function in Google Sheets.

#ERROR! and Error Loading Data: Often a result of connectivity issues or when the function is unable to load the data due to internal errors.

Formula Parse Error: This signifies a problem with the formula syntax. For example, missing quotation marks around the spreadsheet_url or range_string, which is essential for the formula to be parsed correctly.

 Detailing a Formula Parse Error due to missing quotation marks in the IMPORTRANGE formula syntax.

Syntax Error and Spreadsheet cannot be found: Illogical input, like an incorrectly spelled sheet name or an invalid range, can lead to syntax errors.

Troubleshooting IMPORTRANGE Errors

Permission and Access Issues

One of the foremost reasons users encounter errors with IMPORTRANGE is due to permission and access issues. The function requires authorization to pull data from another spreadsheet.

If a user sees a #REF! error with a message to allow access, clicking the “allow access” button should resolve the problem. It is important to make sure that the Google Sheets being connected are accessible by one’s account.

Syntax and Formula Adjustments

Errors can also arise from improper syntax and formula adjustments. The importrange formula requires a specific format: IMPORTRANGE(“spreadsheet_url”, “range_string”).

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Each part of the formula should be enclosed in quotation marks, and the two arguments should be separated by a comma.

How to Avoid IMPORTRANGE Errors:

In addition to the steps above, here are a few best practices to help you avoid encountering the “Import Range Internal Error” in the future:

  • Use IMPORTRANGE sparingly: While it’s a handy function, overusing it can lead to performance issues and errors. Consider alternative methods like named ranges or QUERY functions when possible.
  • Avoid volatile functions: Functions like NOW() and RAND() can cause your sheet to recalculate more frequently, which can exacerbate issues with IMPORTRANGE. Use these functions judiciously.
  • Consider add-ons for complex data imports: If you need to pull in data from multiple sources or perform advanced transformations, Google Sheets add-ons like Coefficient can streamline the process and reduce the risk of errors.

How Coefficient Can Help

Coefficient is a spreadsheet connector that integrates Google Sheets to your company’s databases, CRMs, and other tools, allowing you to import data with just a few clicks.

By using Coefficient, you can avoid the hassle of manually setting up IMPORTRANGE formulas and worrying about permissions and range references. With Coefficient, you can:

  • Import data directly into your Google Sheets without any coding
  • Set up automated data refreshes to keep your sheets up-to-date
  • Create custom formulas and queries using natural language with the GPT Copilot feature

How to Fix IMPORTRANGE Error? Use Coefficient.

The “Import Range Internal Error” can be a frustrating roadblock when working with data in Google Sheets, but by following the steps outlined in this post, you can quickly identify and resolve the issue.

Ready to streamline your data management in Google Sheets?

Get started with Coefficient today and see how easy it can be to connect your spreadsheets to your company’s systems.

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Tired of spending endless hours manually pushing and pulling data into Google Sheets? Say goodbye to repetitive tasks and hello to efficiency with Coefficient, the leading spreadsheet automation tool trusted by over 350,000 professionals worldwide.

Sync data from your CRM, database, ads platforms, and more into Google Sheets in just a few clicks. Set it on a refresh schedule. And, use AI to write formulas and SQL, or build charts and pivots.

Julian Alvarado Content Marketing
Julian is a dynamic B2B marketer with 8+ years of experience creating full-funnel marketing journeys, leveraging an analytical background in biological sciences to examine customer needs.
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