The hardest part of any new tool is getting started. In this acbuy spreadsheet setup tutorial, we will walk through every single step from downloading the template to entering your first order. No prior experience is required.
Whether you choose Google Sheets or Excel, this tutorial covers both platforms. We will also show you the most common configuration options that beginners should customize from day one. By the end, you will have a fully functional tracking system.
Before You Start
Before diving into the setup, make sure you have a Google account if you plan to use Google Sheets. For Excel, any version from 2016 onwards will work. You also need to decide which template to use. The basic template is recommended for beginners, while the reseller template is ideal for those who buy frequently.
Gather your recent order information. You will need product names, prices, seller names, shipping costs, and tracking numbers. If you have past orders from oocbuy.com, have them ready so you can populate the spreadsheet immediately.
Make sure you have a reliable internet connection. The templates are hosted online, and while you can use them offline after copying, the initial setup requires downloading files or accessing Google Sheets.
Google Sheets Setup
Setting up the acbuy spreadsheet in Google Sheets is the easiest option. Follow these exact steps:
Open the Template Link
Click the template link on our website. The template will open in Google Sheets view mode. You cannot edit it until you make a copy.
Make a Copy
Go to "File" in the top menu, then click "Make a copy". Rename your copy to something like "My Acbuy Orders 2026" and save it to your Drive.
Check the Formulas
Click through the columns to verify the formulas are working. The total cost column should auto-calculate. If you see #REF errors, refresh the page.
Add Your First Order
Click on the first empty row and enter your product details. The date column should auto-fill with today's date using the formula provided.
Save and Share Settings
Go to "Share" and set your privacy preferences. Most users keep it private. You can also set it to view-only for sharing with friends.
Excel Setup
For Excel users, the setup process is slightly different but equally straightforward:
Download the Excel File
Click the .xlsx download link on our website. The file will save to your default downloads folder.
Open and Enable Editing
Open the file. If you see a yellow banner saying "Enable Editing", click it. The formulas will not work in protected mode.
Save to Your Documents
Save the file to a permanent location like your Documents folder. Name it clearly so you can find it easily.
Test the Calculations
Enter a test price in the price column and check if the total column updates. If it does, the formulas are working correctly.
Customizing Your Columns
After the basic setup, you should customize the spreadsheet to match your buying habits. The default columns include Product Name, Category, Price, Shipping, Status, and Notes.
Most users add a few custom columns: Budget Limit, Actual Cost vs Planned, Seller Rating, and Reorder Date. These columns help you make better buying decisions over time.
To add a column, simply click on the column header right of the existing data, right-click, and select "Insert column". Add a header row in the first row to keep things organized. The acbuy spreadsheet is designed to be flexible.
Add a Rating Column
Track seller quality by adding a star rating column. This helps you avoid bad sellers on future orders.
Create a Wishlist Tab
Add a second sheet for items you want to buy later. This separates active orders from future plans.
Set Up Alerts
Use Google Sheets to trigger email notifications when delivery dates approach. Never miss a package again.
Use Data Validation
Set dropdown menus for status columns. This prevents typos and keeps your data clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from Google Sheets to Excel later?
Yes, you can download your Google Sheets as an Excel file at any time. All formulas and formatting will transfer over.
What if the formulas are broken?
First, try refreshing the page. If that does not work, copy the template again. Make sure you click "Enable Editing" in Excel.
How do I add more rows?
Simply click on the last row with data and press Tab to create a new row. The formulas will auto-fill.
Can I use it offline?
Excel works offline. Google Sheets works offline if you enable offline mode in Google Drive settings.