FAQ

Do I need an API key to connect Airtable to Coupler.io?

No. Coupler.io uses shareable view links instead of API keys. Create a shareable grid view link in Airtable and paste it into Coupler.io during setup. This is actually more secure because you're not exposing your full base or API credentials.

Can I import data from a password-protected Airtable view?

Yes. If your Airtable view is password-protected, enter the password in the "Protected view password" field during importer setup. Coupler.io stores it securely and uses it only to access your view.

What happens if I change my Airtable data—does it automatically update in the destination?

No, not automatically. Your destination will only update when Coupler.io runs the data flow according to your refresh schedule (manual, hourly, daily, or weekly). Changes to Airtable won't appear in your destination until the next refresh.

Can I filter which columns are imported?

You can't selectively import columns through Coupler.io itself, but you can create a filtered view in Airtable with only the columns you need, then import that view. This gives you control over what gets pulled into your destination.

Does Coupler.io preserve Airtable formulas?

No. Formula fields are imported as their calculated values, not as formulas. If you update the formula in Airtable, the new value won't be calculated retroactively in your destination—it will only reflect the new calculation after your next import refresh.

What delimiter should I choose for multi-select fields?

Pick a character that doesn't appear in your actual data. Common choices are: - Comma `,` (if no commas in values) - Semicolon `;` (if no semicolons in values) - Pipe `|` (rarely used in data) - Tab character (if supported)

If you pick a delimiter that appears in your data, values will split unexpectedly. You can always change it later and re-import.

Why do my dates look different in Google Sheets than in Airtable?

Coupler.io imports dates based on your Google Sheet's time zone setting, not Airtable's. If the timezones differ, times will appear shifted. Custom formula fields in Airtable will preserve their custom-calculated times. Change your Sheet's time zone setting if you need a different time zone displayed.

Can I import an entire Airtable base or just a single view?

You must import individual views, not entire bases. This is a safety feature—you control exactly what data is shared. If you need multiple tables, create a separate shareable view for each table and set up multiple data flows.

What happens if I delete rows or columns from my Google Sheet?

On the next data refresh, Coupler.io will completely overwrite your Google Sheet with fresh data from Airtable. Any deleted or custom columns will be recreated with the current Airtable data. This is why it's best to keep your import sheet separate from your analysis sheets.

How often can I refresh my data?

Coupler.io supports manual refreshes anytime and automatic refreshes at intervals you choose (hourly, daily, weekly). The actual frequency depends on your plan and the size of your import. Large imports may take longer, so schedule them during off-peak hours to avoid timeouts.

Will Coupler.io import hidden or filtered rows from Airtable?

No. Coupler.io imports only rows and columns visible in your selected Airtable view. If you've hidden rows or applied filters in Airtable, they won't be imported. Unhide or remove filters before importing if you want that data included.

Can I use Coupler.io to export Google Sheets back to Airtable?

No. Coupler.io is one-way: Airtable → Google Sheets. If you need to sync data bidirectionally or export from Google Sheets to Airtable, you'll need a different tool or a manual process.

What should I do if I see "Cannot read property '1' of null" error?

This error means you've shared a base link instead of a view link. Go back to Airtable, open the specific table/view you want, click Share view, select Create a shareable grid view link, and copy that URL. Update your data flow with the correct view link.

Why is my import timing out or failing with error codes like "ddb3-3047"?

Timeout errors usually happen with very large Airtable views or during high-traffic periods. Try breaking your data flow into smaller pieces by creating filtered views in Airtable. You can also schedule data flows to run during quieter times of day. If timeouts persist, contact Coupler.io support.

Can I edit data in my destination and have it update Airtable?

No. Imports are read-only. Changes to your destination won't affect your Airtable base.

Why are zeros and empty values showing as blanks?

Some Airtable field types (numbers, checkboxes) may display differently in Google Sheets. This is a formatting difference. You can use a Google Sheets formula like `=IF(ISBLANK(A1),0,A1)` to replace blanks with 0 if needed. Verify the actual value exists in Airtable first.

For more information about data types and formatting, see the Data Overview. For connection troubleshooting, check Common Issues. For setup recommendations, visit Best Practices.