How to fix encoding problems in CSV after vCard to CSV conversion?

[tylerhoward]

Encoding problems in CSV (like weird characters or broken names) usually happen because of incorrect encoding during or after conversion. You can fix it manually, but it’s even better if you prevent it from the start.

Manual way (to fix encoding after conversion)​

If your CSV already has issues, try this:

1. Open the CSV file in Notepad
2. Go to File → Save As
3. Choose UTF-8 in encoding
4. Save the file
5. Now open it in Excel or import into Gmail

Or in Excel:

• Go to Data → From Text/CSV
• Select your file
• Choose UTF-8 encoding before loading

This usually fixes most character issues.

Better way (prevent the issue during conversion)​

Instead of fixing it later, you can avoid encoding problems completely by using a reliable tool like
WholeClear VCF to CSV Converter

• Maintains proper UTF-8 encoding during conversion
• Keeps all contact details correctly formatted
• Supports bulk VCF files without data loss
• No manual corrections needed after conversion

What this really means​

Manual fixes work, but they take time and aren’t always perfect. Using a good tool makes sure your CSV is clean and ready to import into Gmail right away.

Tip: If your contacts include special characters or multiple languages, always go with UTF-8 — that’s the safest option.

 

[franky909]

The issue is likely a mismatch between the VCF file's UTF-8 encoding and Excel's default ANSI or Windows-1252 parsing. If you're seeing "garbage" characters where accented letters should be, the byte order mark (BOM) is probably missing from the CSV header.

Instead of just double-clicking the file to open it, use the "Data" tab in Excel and select "From Text/CSV" so you can manually set the File Origin to 65001: Unicode (UTF-8). This forces the program to map the character codes correctly before the data is loaded into the grid.