The RawRecipientDataExport XML API can return empty or significantly reduced result sets when the EXCLUDE_DELETED flag is enabled in your payload. If your export is returning no data or fewer records than expected, this is the most likely cause.

What causes this

When EXCLUDE_DELETED is set to true, the export filters out any contacts that have been deleted from your list or database. If contacts were removed after the original mailing or campaign activity, they will not appear in the export. In cases where all relevant contacts have been deleted, this results in a completely empty export file.

This behavior is expected when EXCLUDE_DELETED = true is used.

How to fix it

Review your RawRecipientDataExport XML payload and check whether EXCLUDE_DELETED is enabled. Your resolution depends on your use case.

If you need historical data including deleted contacts: Set EXCLUDE_DELETED to false, or remove the flag entirely from the payload. This allows the export to include contacts that were deleted after the campaign activity occurred.

If you only want active contacts: Keep EXCLUDE_DELETED = true and ensure contacts are not deleted from the database before your export is executed.

Best practices

• Avoid deleting contacts until all required exports and reports have been completed
• For recurring exports, align contact deletion schedules with your reporting and data retention needs
• Coordinate with database management teams to prevent data loss mid-process

Still getting empty results?

If your export is empty and you believe it should contain data, contact Acoustic Support with the following information:

• Organization name
• Pod number
• Export job details
• XML payload (if possible)