Import Overview
CandleLog supports importing trades from various brokers via CSV files. The smart parser automatically detects your broker's format and maps fields correctly, making bulk imports quick and accurate.
Supported Formats
CandleLog currently supports:
| Broker | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tradovate | Native export | Futures trading |
| ThinkOrSwim | Statement export | TD Ameritrade platform |
| Interactive Brokers | Activity statement | Multi-asset broker |
| E*TRADE | Trade history | Stocks and options |
| Generic | Standard CSV | Custom or other brokers |
How Import Works
1. Export from Broker
Export your trade history from your broker platform. Most brokers have a "Download" or "Export" option in their trade history section.
2. Upload to CandleLog
Navigate to the Trades page and click "Import from CSV". Upload your exported file.
3. Automatic Detection
CandleLog's parser:
- Identifies your broker format
- Maps columns to trade fields
- Converts dates and prices
- Calculates P&L where needed
4. Preview and Adjust
Before importing, you'll see:
- All detected trades
- P&L summary
- Option to adjust timezone
- Option to override account number
5. Confirm Import
Click to import trades to your selected trading account.
Timezone Handling
Broker exports often use the broker's local timezone. CandleLog lets you specify the source timezone so trades are stored correctly in UTC and displayed in your preferred timezone.
Common Broker Timezones
| Broker | Default Timezone |
|---|---|
| Tradovate | America/Chicago (Central) |
| ThinkOrSwim | America/New_York (Eastern) |
| IBKR | Varies by account |
| E*TRADE | America/New_York (Eastern) |
After import, all times display in Eastern Time for consistency.
Account Detection
Many CSV exports include your broker account number. CandleLog detects this automatically and matches it to your trading accounts, or lets you specify an account number override.
Duplicate Prevention
CandleLog tracks imported files by their content hash. If you try to import the same file twice, you'll be warned about potential duplicates.
Import Templates
Need help with the expected format? Download broker-specific templates from the import page:
- Generic template
- ThinkOrSwim template
- Tradovate template
- IBKR template
- E*TRADE template
Templates show required columns and example data.
Broker-Specific Guides
For detailed instructions on each broker:
Troubleshooting Imports
Common Issues
"Unsupported format" error
- Ensure you're exporting the correct report type
- Check that your CSV has the required columns
- Try downloading a template to compare formats
Missing trades
- Check if trades are filtered by date in your export
- Verify all trades have required fields (prices, quantities)
- Look for cancelled or rejected orders that might be filtered
Wrong timezone
- Select the correct source timezone in the import preview
- Verify times after import in the trades list
P&L doesn't match broker
- Check that commission and fees are included
- Verify tick size and tick value for futures
- Ensure all executions for a trade are included
Getting Help
If you encounter issues importing from a specific broker:
- Check your broker's export settings
- Compare your CSV to our templates
- Contact support with a sample of your CSV (remove sensitive data)
Future Import Support
We're continually adding support for more brokers. If your broker isn't supported, you can:
- Use the generic CSV format
- Request support for your broker via feedback