NCIR - Test File Formats

Step-by-Step Guide

The purpose of this guide is to walk you through testing file formats for a file upload submission in the Information Reporting Application.  The following reports can be electronically filed using the Information Reporting Application:

  • NCIR-BW, Report by Beer and Wine Wholesalers of Wholesale Sales of Alcohol
  • NCIR-ABC, Report by ABC Board of Wholesale Sales of Alcohol
  • NCIR-OL, Report by Occupational Licensing Boards of their Licensees

How to Test File Formats in the Information Reporting Application

  • 1

    Step 1.

    You can test file formats for a current or prior year by clicking Test File Formats in the Information Reporting Application.  

    Create a .txt, .csv, or .xlsx (Excel) file(s) using the file formats on the NCDOR website.

  • 2

    Step 2.

    On the Test File Formats screen, select the year for which you want to test your file(s).

  • 3

    Step 3.

    Click the Upload button that corresponds with the file(s) you want to test.

  • 4

    Step 4.

    A new window will open.  Choose the file you want to upload.  Click Open to add the file.  Keep in mind:

    • All files must be .txt, .csv, or .xlsx format.
    • There are no individual file size limitations for the Information Reporting Application, but there is a 3 GB total submission size limit and your browser may have a 2 GB limitation.
  • 5

    Step 5.

    The file(s) you add will appear in a table below the upload buttons.

  • 6

    Step 6.

    If needed, use the minus (-) button next to the file name to delete a file.  A confirmation box will appear.  Click Yes to remove the file or No to keep the file.

  • 7

    Step 7.

    Click Test Files to test the file(s) you uploaded.

  • 8

    Step 8.

    A popup box will appear while your file(s) is being tested.  Do not close the Information Reporting Application until testing is complete.

  • 9

    Step 9.

    If there are no errors in your file(s), a popup box will confirm that your file(s) is formatted correctly.  Click Close to close the popup box.

    If there are one or more errors in your file(s), you will receive an error report.  Click Download Error Report to open the error report.

    The report list all of the errors found in the file(s).  If there is an error in your file(s), determine where the error occurred by reviewing the error message and correct your file(s) accordingly.  Use the same steps to repeat file format testing once you have corrected all of the errors.

  • 10

    Step 10.

    Click Back to return to the Information Reporting Application home page.  Keep in mind that the Test File Formats screen is only used to test your files, not to submit your report.  Use the applicable Submission button to upload files and submit your report.

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