HTML Importer

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Overview

The HTML Importer allows you to transform external HTML emails into RGE Studio designs. You can import emails built in a third-party tool or coded from scratch. Then you can edit them in RGE Studio.

We designed the HTML Importer to import HTML into a format compatible with RGE Studio. However, HTML documents (especially emails) can follow many different coding patterns. A small portion of your design may not perfectly match the original version after import. These scenarios require light manual editing in RGE Studio to complete your design.

Each RGE Studio organization has a monthly HTML import allowance based on its plan. This applies to all workspaces in that organization:

How to use

You can start an import from any of these places in RGE Studio:

1. From the Projects section, click Import. Then choose Email HTML from the dropdown menu.

   

2. From a Project folder, click the Import button located in the right-hand corner.

   

3. From the Template Catalog, click the Import an existing HTML button at the top right of the catalog.

   

Once you’ve chosen the Import option, select the HTML file from your computer. RGE Studio will then begin the import process automatically.

When the import succeeds, your design opens in the RGE Studio builder. Imported emails take the name of your original file, without the .html extension.

HTML requirements

To ensure a successful import, your HTML must meet the following criteria:

• DOCTYPE Declaration: Your HTML file must start with a valid <!DOCTYPE html> declaration.
• Valid Structure: Your HTML must include <html> and <body> tags.
• Character Encoding: Include <meta charset="UTF-8"> inside the <head> to prevent character issues during conversion.
• Static Content Only: The importer supports static HTML and CSS. Remove any JavaScript that creates or changes your HTML.
• Public Resources: All images and linked resources must be publicly accessible online. Host them outside private networks and firewalls.

For best results, follow standard email development best practices.

Content block limitations

The importer converts most email elements. Add these elements in the RGE Studio builder after you import:

• Background images
• Dividers
• Menus

Additional considerations

Consider the following when using the HTML Importer:

• Migration vs. Perfect Reproduction: The importer converts your HTML into a visually editable format. The result approximates your original rather than replicating it pixel for pixel. Adjust your design after importing to get the look you want.
• Consistency and Predictability: The same HTML file always produces the same result.
• Security and Data Usage: Imported emails are not stored by the importer service. They are processed in real-time and returned to the builder for editing.
• Supported Formats: The importer works with HTML files up to 1 MB.
• Images: Hosted images continue to reference the original URL in your HTML. Local images are replaced with empty image content blocks as placeholders.
• Dynamic Content and Merge Tags: For best results, add dynamic content and merge tags within RGE Studio after import.
• Custom Fonts: Custom fonts import with your design when the HTML file includes a valid CSS URL. To keep using them, add them to your Workspace Styles. Learn how in Using custom fonts in RGE Studio.
• Monthly allowance: Your allowance resets every month on your billing date. On an annual plan, it still resets each month on the same day. If you reach your limit, wait for the next reset or upgrade your plan for more imports.

FAQ

What happens to unsupported HTML tags?

The import still completes, but unsupported tags may not render as expected. Validate your code and remove unsupported elements before importing.

Does this tool use AI?

No. The importer does not rely on AI or machine learning. It is a deterministic conversion engine designed for reliability and performance.

Can I import emails with external CSS?

External CSS may work if publicly hosted. Support is partial, so inline your styles for best results.

Can I import landing pages?

Yes, but the importer works best with emails. The HTML Importer was built for HTML-generated emails, so an imported landing page might not look as you expect. Emails often use syntax that targets specific email clients. For example, VML (Vector Markup Language) targets Outlook clients exclusively.

Can I import MJML emails?

Yes, this option is also available. You can find it in the Import dropdown, in the projects area.