[vite]: rollup failed to resolve import

Charlotte

3 min read

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26-02-2025

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Vite, a blazing-fast build tool, occasionally throws the dreaded "Rollup failed to resolve import" error. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the troubleshooting skills to conquer this frustrating issue. We'll explore common causes, effective solutions, and preventative measures to keep your Vite projects running smoothly.

Understanding the Error

The "[Vite]: Rollup failed to resolve import" error signifies that Vite's underlying bundler, Rollup, can't locate a module you're trying to import in your JavaScript code. This usually means a problem with your project's configuration, dependencies, or the import statement itself.

Common Causes

• Typographical Errors: Simple typos in your import paths are a frequent culprit. Double-check for any spelling mistakes in your import statements.

• Incorrect Path: Ensure the path to the imported module is correct relative to the importing file. Vite uses Rollup's resolution algorithm, which follows specific rules. Mismatched case in filenames or directories can also cause problems.

• Missing Dependencies: The module you're trying to import might not be installed. Verify that all necessary packages are listed in your package.json and installed using npm install or yarn install.

• Incorrect Package Name: You might be using the wrong name for a package. Check the actual name on npm or another package registry.

• Module Resolution Issues: Your project's module resolution settings might be incorrectly configured. Vite relies on Rollup's resolution, often influenced by your project's package.json main field and module field (for ES modules).

• Circular Dependencies: A module might be trying to import itself, directly or indirectly, leading to this error.

• Plugin Conflicts: Conflicting Vite plugins can interfere with module resolution.

Troubleshooting Steps

Let's walk through systematic steps to resolve the "Rollup failed to resolve import" error:

1. Verify Typos and Paths

Carefully examine your import statement. Check for any spelling mistakes in the module name and the path. Ensure the path is correct relative to the importing file. Remember, paths are relative to the file where the import statement resides.

Example:

Instead of:

import MyComponent from './mycomponent.js'; //Incorrect path if the file is in a subfolder

Use:

import MyComponent from './components/mycomponent.js'; //Correct if mycomponent.js is in a 'components' folder

2. Check Your package.json

Ensure the module is listed as a dependency in your package.json. If it's not, add it and run npm install or yarn install to install it.

{
  "dependencies": {
    "my-module": "^1.0.0" 
  }
}

3. Inspect the Package Name

Confirm you are using the correct package name. Consult the package's documentation or npm page to double-check.

4. Clean and Rebuild

Sometimes, cached files can cause issues. Try cleaning your project's cache and rebuilding:

• For npm: npm run clean (if you have a clean script defined) or manually delete the node_modules folder and then run npm install.
• For yarn: yarn clean (if you have a clean script defined) or manually delete the node_modules folder and then run yarn install.
• Restart your development server: This forces Vite to reread your configuration and files.

5. Examine Module Resolution

If the module is in a subdirectory, make sure the path is accurate. Consider using absolute paths for clarity. Vite supports absolute paths starting with /.

Example:

import MyComponent from '/src/components/mycomponent.js';

6. Address Circular Dependencies

Carefully examine your project's import structure for circular dependencies. Refactor your code to break these cycles. Often, reorganizing your code into smaller, more focused modules helps.

7. Investigate Plugin Conflicts

If you're using several Vite plugins, conflicts can occur. Try disabling plugins one by one to pinpoint the source of the problem.

8. Check Your tsconfig.json (if using TypeScript)

If you're working with TypeScript, ensure your tsconfig.json file is correctly configured. The baseUrl and paths options are crucial for module resolution.

9. Inspect Rollup Configuration (Advanced)

In rare cases, you might need to directly configure Rollup. This involves modifying your Vite configuration (vite.config.js or vite.config.ts). However, this is usually only necessary for very complex scenarios and often better solved by addressing the more fundamental issues first.

Preventative Measures

• Use Relative or Absolute Paths: Prefer using relative or absolute paths over bare module names to avoid ambiguity.

• Version Control: Use version control (Git) to track changes and easily revert if issues arise.

• Consistent Naming: Maintain a consistent naming convention for your files and directories.

By carefully following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to troubleshoot and resolve the "[Vite]: Rollup failed to resolve import" error, keeping your Vite development workflow smooth and efficient. Remember to always check for typos, ensure correct paths, and verify that all necessary dependencies are correctly installed and configured.