PriceCop XML converter: automation of feeds from Excel and Google Sheets

In many companies, the price list is a “living” organism existing in Excel or Google Sheets. This is convenient for operational edits: a manager can change a price, update stock, or add a new product in a second. However, partners, marketplaces (Rozetka, Prom), and price aggregators (Hotline) require an XML feed — a structured file that the system reads automatically via a link.

The XML Converter in PriceCop bridges this gap: it takes data from your spreadsheet, converts it into valid XML code, and updates it regularly (almost every hour) so your partners always see up-to-date information without any manual intervention.

Why a Standard Spreadsheet Can’t Replace a Feed

Spreadsheets are built for humans, while XML is built for machines. Integration systems require parameters that are often ignored in Excel:

• Strict Structure: Tags, attributes, and encoding (UTF-8) that leave no room for error.
• Stable URL: You provide the link once, and the system fetches updates automatically.
• Identification: A clear “key” for the product (ID or SKU) that prevents duplicate entries.

In spreadsheets, data is often “blurry”: one row might say “yes,” another “in stock,” and another might just have a dash. For an import algorithm, this is a critical error leading to product rejection.

Where is an XML Feed Critically Necessary?

For Ukrainian e-commerce, the XML/YML format is the industry standard. Without it, it is impossible to work with top platforms:

Field Mapping: Turning Columns into Data

The conversion process in PriceCop is based on mapping — establishing a correspondence between your Excel column and an XML tag. A typical set of fields includes:

• ID / SKU — a unique identifier (the foundation of everything).
• Name and Description — the marketing component.
• Price — retail price, as well as separate levels for B2B partners.
• Stock (Availability) — a numerical value or logical status.
• Parameters — characteristics (color, material, power) which turn into filters on Rozetka.

The Advantage of Regular Updates

A one-time conversion becomes obsolete within an hour if you have dynamic sales. The PriceCop XML Converter automatically rebuilds the feed every hour. This guarantees:

1. No “ghost” items (selling products that are no longer in stock).
2. Instant transmission of promotional prices to all platforms simultaneously.
3. Partner trust, as they see the real picture of your inventory.

Checklist: Preparing Your Spreadsheet for Conversion

To ensure your feed works perfectly, check your Excel/Google Sheet against these points:

• Uniqueness: Each SKU should appear only once.
• Price Integrity: Numbers only. No “from $100” or comments inside the price cell.
• Media Accessibility: Links to photos must be direct and accessible without passwords.
• Category Structure: It is recommended to have a separate column for the category tree (e.g., Electronics > Smartphones).

[PriceCop] XML Converter: How to Create a Universal Language for Your E-commerce

Conclusions

The XML Converter from PriceCop is a bridge between your familiar working environment (spreadsheets) and the requirements of a large market. You continue working in Excel, while PriceCop handles the technical side of distribution, automating data updates for every partner or marketplace.

Want to automate your feed? Set up your first conversion in the PriceCop dashboard right now.