> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://developer.abacum.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://developer.abacum.ai/guides/import-api-guides/set-up-the-import-api.md).

# Set up the Import API

Enable the Import API, connect it, and create the target dataset.

You set up the target dataset one time in the Abacum app. After that, you can load data on any schedule or trigger.

## Before you start

* **The Import API is enabled for your organization.** This is a separate organization setting. It is not the same as the Public API setting or the MCP setting. To enable it, contact your Abacum admin or your Customer Success Manager.
* **You have credentials.** After the Import API is enabled, a super admin creates them in **Settings** > **Connections & API**. See [Get credentials](/essentials/get-credentials.md).

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### Connect the Import API integration

In Abacum, go to the Integrations section and search for **Import API**. Click **Connect**. Import API then shows as an active connection, and you can select it as the connection type for a new dataset.

![Connect the Import API integration](https://2379578202-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCInB7hHJDdVbsWHHcmG6%2Fuploads%2F4xt9jAbPcp9zaRqpBW5F%2Fimport-api-connect.gif?alt=media)
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### Create the dataset

Create a new dataset and set the connection type to **Import API**. Upload a sample file with the same structure as the data you will load through the API. Then define:

* The **typing layer**: the column names and data types that each load must contain.
* The **timestamp column**: the column that assigns each row to a month. Transactional datasets only.

![Create a dataset with the Import API connection](https://2379578202-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCInB7hHJDdVbsWHHcmG6%2Fuploads%2FvVXxRjFyJPTiiDcVO2C8%2Fimport-api-create-dataset.gif?alt=media)
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### Copy the dataset code

Abacum gives the dataset a code when you create it. The API uses this code to send each load to the correct dataset. Find the code in the dataset details sidebar.
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Next: [Load data](/guides/import-api-guides/load-data.md).