Snowflake Invalid file format error encountered during data loading or unloading.

The file format specified for data loading or unloading is invalid.

Understanding Snowflake and Its Purpose

Snowflake is a cloud-based data warehousing platform that enables organizations to store, manage, and analyze large volumes of data. It provides a scalable and flexible solution for data storage and processing, allowing users to perform complex queries and analytics with ease. Snowflake's architecture separates storage and compute, enabling efficient data management and cost-effective scaling.

Identifying the Symptom: Invalid File Format Error

When working with Snowflake, users may encounter the error code 000617 (57P14), which indicates an "Invalid file format" issue. This error typically arises during data loading or unloading operations, where the specified file format does not match the expected format supported by Snowflake.

Exploring the Issue: Error Code 000617 (57P14)

The error code 000617 (57P14) is triggered when Snowflake detects an invalid file format during data operations. This can occur if the file format specified in the COPY INTO or COPY FROM command is not recognized by Snowflake. Common causes include typos in the format name, unsupported file types, or incorrect configuration settings.

Common File Formats Supported by Snowflake

  • CSV
  • JSON
  • AVRO
  • ORC
  • PARQUET
  • XML

For a complete list of supported file formats, refer to the Snowflake documentation.

Steps to Fix the Invalid File Format Issue

Step 1: Verify the File Format

Ensure that the file format specified in your data loading or unloading command is correct and supported by Snowflake. Double-check for any typos or incorrect format names. For example, if you are using a CSV file, the command should specify FILE_FORMAT = (TYPE = 'CSV').

Step 2: Check File Format Configuration

Review the configuration settings of the file format object, if used. Ensure that all parameters such as FIELD_DELIMITER, SKIP_HEADER, and NULL_IF are correctly defined. You can view the file format details using the following command:

SHOW FILE FORMATS;

For more information on file format options, visit the CREATE FILE FORMAT documentation.

Step 3: Test with a Sample File

Before loading or unloading large datasets, test the operation with a small sample file to ensure the format is correctly recognized by Snowflake. This can help identify any issues early in the process.

Step 4: Consult Snowflake Support

If the issue persists after verifying the file format and configuration, consider reaching out to Snowflake Support for further assistance. Provide them with detailed information about the error and the steps you have taken to resolve it.

Conclusion

Encountering an "Invalid file format" error in Snowflake can disrupt data operations, but by following the steps outlined above, you can diagnose and resolve the issue effectively. Always ensure that your file formats are correctly specified and supported by Snowflake to avoid such errors in the future.

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