# Will importing data from another platform overwrite my existing Simkl watch history and watchlist?

When bringing in your watch history from another service—Simkl is designed to **merge** rather than replace. Your existing watchlist entries, watched episodes, ratings, and memos remain intact. Here’s how it works and what to expect.

Importing external data should streamline your tracking, not disrupt it. Simkl’s import tools prioritize **data integrity** by skipping duplicates and never deleting what you’ve already marked as watched. Whether you’re syncing hundreds of episodes or importing a hand‑picked custom list, Simkl merges new entries into your profile, ensuring a seamless integration of both past and newly imported data.

{% content-ref url="/pages/RcMT7ws3nReEBKt4MIq8" %}
[Importing to Simkl](/how-to-use-simkl/advanced-usage/import-export-data/importing-to-simkl.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

## 1. How Simkl Handles Duplicate Entries

Simkl’s import process checks each incoming item against your current watchlist and watched history:

* **Existing Items:** If a show, movie, or episode is already in your watchlist—even marked as watched—Simkl skips that entry.
* **New Items:** Titles not present in your profile are added to the appropriate list (Plan to Watch, Watching, Completed, etc.).

***

## 2. Step‑by‑Step Import Process

1. **Choose Your Import Method**
   * **CSV/JSON File:** Go to **Apps → Import** and select **CSV** or **JSON**.
   * **Platform Sync (e.g., IMDB, Trakt):** Visit **Apps → Import Trakt** and authorize the connection.
2. **Upload or Authorize**
   * **Files:** Click **Browse**, select your export file, then **Upload**.
   * **OAuth Apps:** Sign in and grant Simkl access.
3. **Review Import Summary**
   * After processing, you’ll see a report:
     * **Newly Added:** Count of titles added.
     * **Skipped Duplicates:** Count of existing entries.
     * **Errors (if any):** Items that couldn’t be matched.
4. **Finalize Import**
   * Click **Confirm** to complete. Your existing data stays untouched; only new items join your lists.

***

## 3. Best Practices

* **Backup First:** Before large imports, create a backup via **Apps → Backup** to restore your profile if needed.
* **Clean Slate (Optional):** Use the **Clean Watch History** tool under **Settings → Account Cleanup** if you prefer starting fresh.
* **Verify Results:** After importing, visit your **Watchlists** and **History** tabs to confirm the new items appear correctly.

{% content-ref url="/pages/Slp2fEknNJrGZVghwSHv" %}
[Simkl Account Cleanup & Deletion](/how-to-use-simkl/getting-started-with-simkl/account-creation/basic-account-setup/login-and-password-settings/simkl-account-cleanup-and-deletion.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/nq0AjP6aRnlnn8kwXsWQ" %}
[Export Options](/how-to-use-simkl/advanced-usage/import-export-data/exporting-from-simkl/export-options.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}


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