Copying an Existing Marketing List

  • Updated

Copying the structure of an existing Marketing List allows you to reuse the same set of columns without copying any contact data. This can save time when preparing a new list for a specific purpose, but it should be used intentionally to avoid unnecessary list duplication.

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  • This option copies column structure only, not contacts.
  • Use it when you need consistent fields across lists.
  • Creating many similar lists can make data harder to manage.
  • Segments are usually a better choice for targeting variations.
Try it like this: Use structure copying to standardise list fields, but keep one primary list as the long-term home for contacts whenever possible.

When should you copy a list structure?

Copying an existing list’s structure is useful when:

  • You want to standardise columns across multiple lists
  • You are preparing a list that will be populated later by automation or an integration
  • You need a separate list for a clearly defined, long-term purpose

If your goal is simply to target a subset of contacts from an existing list, creating a segment is usually a better option than creating another list.

How copying list structure affects data management

Each Marketing List stores its own copy of contact data. As more lists are created, it can become harder to answer questions like:

  • Which list contains the most up-to-date information?
  • Where should updates be applied?
  • Which list should automation or reporting use?

Before copying a list structure, consider whether the new list is truly needed or whether an existing list with segments would be easier to maintain.

Create a new list by copying an existing structure

To create a new Marketing List using the structure of an existing list:

  1. Go to Lists > Marketing Lists.
  2. Click New List in the top-right corner.
  3. Enter a name for the new list.
  4. Select Copy the structure of an existing list.
  5. Choose the list whose columns you want to copy.
  6. Complete the setup process.

The new list will contain the same column names and structure, but no contact records are copied.

After the list is created

Once the list is created, you can:

  • Add contacts through imports, automation, or integrations
  • Review and adjust column usage if needed

If the list will be updated regularly, consider using List Maintenance Programs instead of repeated imports.

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