Suppose you are in a hurry and want to create a web page using a pre-designed Divi layout. But while importing one, you get a frozen loading screen or simply nothing happens. This can be super frustrating.
And you can easily deal with such issues by identifying the reason and applying the right fixes. In this guide, we will show you how to fix Divi layout import not working for all the possible reasons.
Let’s start with the most common one.
1. Incorrect File Format
Divi only works with the .json extension, which means trying a different format, like .zip will cause import issues. Although Divi layouts are exported in .json format, sometimes they are packaged in .zip files.
Also, server error during export or manually editing the file after exporting can corrupt the JSON structure.
However, by taking certain steps as follows, you can avoid import issues:
- Ensure that the file you are trying to import has the .json extension.
- If the layout file is in a .zip file, extract the .json file from within it.
- Redownload the layout file again from the original source.
2. Incorrect Import Location
Incorrect Import Location is the second most common reason to face layout import issues. That means, you are probably trying to import a layout into the wrong context.
For example, if you export a layout from Divi Library, you must import it back into the Divi Library. If you try to import the layout into the Theme Builder, it will show “This file should not be imported in this context” error.
To avoid import issues, check the layout’s context by following the below provided instructions:
- Use a text editor (Notepad) to open the layout’s .json file.
- Look for the key that defines the context at the beginning of the file. It will appear as:
- “et_builder”: For page/post layouts.
- “et_builder_layouts”: For Divi Library layouts.
- “et_theme_builder”: For Theme Builder layouts.
Now that you know the context of your layout, import it into the corresponding Divi location.
3. Server Related Issues
Server configurations play a critical role in Divi layout imports. If your server lacks resources or has restrictive settings, the import process may fail or freeze.
Here are the key server-related issues to check:
Low PHP Limits
Divi requires sufficient PHP memory, max execution time, and upload file size to import layouts properly. If these limits are too low, the process may time out.
To know if the problem is caused by low PHP limits, go to Divi > Support Center > System Status and check if any values are marked in red. When you see any red marks, increase them by modifying your php.ini file, .htaccess file, or wp-config.php.
Also, if everything is marked green, then the problem lies elsewhere, such as:
ModSecurity or Firewall Restrictions
Some hosting providers enable ModSecurity rules or firewalls that block JSON file uploads, preventing Divi from importing layouts.
Here is how to fix it:
- Check your hosting logs for blocked requests.
- Contact your hosting provider and ask if ModSecurity is blocking JSON files. Request an adjustment if needed.
If the issues persist, then you should contact your hosting provider to troubleshoot and resolve them.
File Permission Issues
Incorrect file permissions can prevent Divi from uploading or processing layout files. To fix this issue follow these instructions
- Use FTP or cPanel File Manager to check permissions for the wp-content/uploads folder.
- Set folders to 755 and files to 644 for proper access.
4. Plugin Conflict
Sometimes security or caching plugins can disrupt the import process. Security plugins may block JSON files by restricting uploads or file types to prevent threats.
On the other hand, caching plugins might serve outdated scripts, which will cause Divi’s import to fail.
To check if a plugin is causing the issue:
- Temporarily deactivate all plugins except Divi and try the import.
- If it works, reactivate plugins one by one to find the conflict.
- Adjust the conflicting plugin’s settings or replace it with an alternative.
5. Cache Issues
Browser and website cache can interfere with the layout import process. Therefore, if you face import related issues, proceed to clearing browser and website cache.
To clear browser cache, go to settings, find “Clear browsing data,” and delete cached files.
On the other hand, clearing website cache includes plugin cache, Divi cache, CDN cache and server-side cache. Here is a breakdown of how to clear each type:
Plugin Cache:
- If you use a caching plugin (e.g., WP Rocket), go to the plugin settings in the WordPress dashboard.
- Find the option to clear or purge cache and click on it.
Divi Cache:
- Navigate to Divi > Theme Options > Builder > Advanced.
- Click Clear under “Static CSS File Generation.”
Note: For in-depth guide on cleaning Divi cache, check out how to clear Divi cache guide.
CDN Cache:
- If you use a CDN (e.g., Cloudflare), log in to your CDN provider’s dashboard.
- Locate the caching section and click Purge Cache or Clear All Cache to refresh files.
Server-Side Cache:
- Some web hosts (e.g., SiteGround) provide built-in server caching.
- Clear cache from your hosting panel (check for “Purge Cache” or “Clear Cache” options).
It’s better to take help from your hosting provider while clearing CDN and server-side cache. With their direct access, they can clear the cache correctly without causing unwanted issues.
6. Outdated Divi Theme or Plugin
An outdated Divi theme or Divi Builder plugin can cause layout import failures. The reason is new or updated versions always include bug fixes, security patches, and compatibility updates that older versions lack.
As a result, when you try to import a layout, outdated code may conflict with the latest features, which will lead to failed imports.
To fix this, update Divi to the latest version:
- Navigating to WordPress dashboard > Divi > Theme Options > Updates
- Enter your Elegant Themes username and API key and click “Save Changes.”
- Then go to Dashboard > Updates to check for available Divi updates.
After updating, try to clean your Divi cache to ensure that the latest changes are reflected.
7. Third-Party Layout Compatibility
Divi layouts from third-party sources may not always be fully compatible with your current Divi version. If the layout was designed using a different Divi release or includes custom modules that your site lacks, the import may fail.
To fix this issue, follow these steps:
- Ensure your Divi theme and builder are updated to the latest version.
- Check if the layout requires additional plugins (e.g., Divi extensions or third-party modules).
- If the layout file is corrupted or incomplete, try re-downloading it from the original source.
- Test the import on a fresh Divi installation to see if the issue is site-specific.
If none of our provided steps work, then reach out to Elegant Themes support. Or you can also take help from your WordPress hosting provider who may be able to identify server-side issues and provide specific solutions.
How to Prevent Future Import Issues
It’s obvious that everybody wants to avoid encountering import issues in the first place. And if you follow these best practices, you can minimize the chances of facing such problems:
- Always update Divi & WordPress before importing layouts.
- Use a staging site to test large imports first.
- Optimize your server settings for smooth imports.
- Avoid unnecessary plugins that might conflict with Divi.
Closing Thoughts
Now you know how to fix Divi layout import not working related issues. Throughout this guide, we have included all the possible reasons to help you identify and resolve the problem with ease.
If you face any difficulties while applying any of our provided steps, feel free to comment. Our expert team is always there to help you get your Divi layouts imported smoothly.
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