# CSV export vs direct integration for leads

> Both move leads into your tools. Here is when a quick file is enough and when a one-click connection pays off.

## The CSV routine

Export → download → open the tool → upload → match columns → choose a campaign → import. It works, but every step is a chance for a mismatch: a "Name" column mapped to first name, a phone in the wrong format, a list imported twice.

## Direct sending

Choose **Send to**, pick the destination, click send. GetClient converts fields for that tool, skips leads it can't take (no email for Instantly), avoids duplicates and shows progress.

## When to use which

| Situation | Better choice |
|---|---|
| Sending to GoHighLevel, Instantly, Smartlead or lemlist regularly | Direct |
| A tool we don't integrate with yet | CSV |
| Reviewing or editing leads in a spreadsheet first | CSV |
| Sharing a list with a client | CSV |
| Automating weekly lists | API — see [automate weekly lead lists](https://getclient.pro/blog/automate-weekly-lead-lists) |

## CSV options, if you need them

- **All columns** — every field
- **Main columns** — the essentials
- **Custom** — pick columns
- **Instantly** and **GoHighLevel** layouts — ready to import

Each can include all rows, the filtered rows or only the ones you checked.

## Mixing both

Many teams send to their sequencer directly and keep a CSV for their records. Both use the same field logic — see [how lead fields map to your CRM](https://getclient.pro/blog/map-lead-fields-to-crm).

## Frequently asked questions

### Which tools can I send to directly?

GoHighLevel, Instantly, Smartlead and lemlist. Everything else can import a CSV.

### Does sending use credits?

No. Credits are used when leads are found; exporting and sending are free.

Source: https://getclient.pro/blog/csv-vs-direct-integration