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This thread is resolved. Here is a description of the problem and solution.

Problem:
You are rebuilding your site with WPML for enterprise-level localization and need to know if the exported XLIFF can use stable or positional IDs instead of incremental ones. You also inquire about any add-ons or configurations to achieve this.
Solution:
We regret to inform you that it is not possible to adjust the ID system in the XLIFF files exported by WPML. WPML uses internal IDs that must match the corresponding content on the site where the file is being imported to ensure correct processing. Unfortunately, there are no add-ons or tools provided by WPML that can modify this behavior.

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Last updated by Andrey 4 weeks ago.

Assisted by: Andrey.

Author Posts
May 18, 2026 at 4:54 pm #18044014

Shivani Verma

We’re rebuilding our site with WPML for enterprise-level localization at Microsoft. Our current system is custom and uses position-based IDs, and we’re aiming to mirror that as we transition. We need to know if the exported XLF can use stable or positional IDs instead of incremental ones. Also, do you offer any add-ons or advice on how we could configure WPML to achieve this?

I’ll attach an example showing your incremental ID and our current positional-based ID in the XLF for more reference.

May 19, 2026 at 5:19 pm #18046772

Andrey
WPML Supporter since 06/2013

Languages: English (English ) Russian (Русский )

Timezone: Europe/Kyiv (GMT+03:00)

Thank you for contacting WPML support.

Unfortunately, this cannot be adjusted, and WPML does not provide a tool to modify this behavior. XLIFF files include internal IDs that must match the corresponding content on the site where the file is being imported. Without this match, the import cannot be processed correctly.