Skip to main content

SFTP Integration

The SFTP gateway is the recommended method for recurring data delivery. Your DMS or data team drops files to a dedicated SFTP endpoint and CarBuddy picks them up automatically.

Connection details

SettingValue
Hostsftp.carbuddy.uk
Port30022
UsernameProvided by your account manager
AuthenticationSSH public key only (no passwords)

Key setup

  1. Generate an SSH key pair on your server:
    ssh-keygen -t ed25519 -C "your-dealership-sftp" -f ~/.ssh/carbuddy_sftp
  2. Send the public key (~/.ssh/carbuddy_sftp.pub) to your CarBuddy account manager
  3. Your account manager registers the key and confirms your username
  4. Test the connection:
    sftp -P 30022 -i ~/.ssh/carbuddy_sftp your-username@sftp.carbuddy.uk

Supported key types: ED25519 (recommended), RSA (2048-bit minimum)

File format

Drop files as CSV to your SFTP home directory. The filename should follow the pattern YYYY-MM-DD-upload.csv or any descriptive name ending in .csv.

See the CSV upload guide for required columns and format spec.

Processing

Files are picked up within 5 minutes of upload. You'll see the batch appear in the portal under Upload History. An email confirmation is sent once processing completes.

Troubleshooting

ProblemSolution
Permission denied (publickey)Key not yet registered — contact your account manager
Connection refused on port 30022Check your firewall allows outbound connections to sftp.carbuddy.uk:30022
File uploaded but not appearing in portalCheck the file is a valid CSV; contact support if the problem persists

For help, open a ticket in the portal support system.