# GeoJSON > GeoJSON is an open standard format, defined in IETF RFC 7946, for encoding geographic features such as points, lines and polygons, with their properties, in JSON. It uses longitude-latitude coordinates in WGS 84 and is the format the EUDR Information System accepts for bulk geolocation uploads. Also known as: RFC 7946, .geojson, FeatureCollection ## Why does it matter? GeoJSON is the common language between field mapping tools, GIS software and the [EUDR Information System](/glossary/eu-traces/). Getting it right avoids rejected uploads and silent errors that put plots in the wrong place. ## How does it work? A GeoJSON file is usually a `FeatureCollection` of `Feature` objects. Each feature has: - a `geometry`: `Point` for small plots, `Polygon` or `MultiPolygon` for boundaries; - `properties`: attributes such as a plot identifier, farmer identifier, producer country or area. Key rules from RFC 7946: - coordinates are in WGS 84, ordered longitude then latitude; - polygon rings are closed (first and last positions identical); - exterior rings should follow the right-hand rule (counter-clockwise), holes clockwise. For EUDR submissions, check the Information System's current technical specifications for accepted properties, file size limits and precision. ## Common pitfalls - Latitude and longitude swapped. - Coordinates rounded below six decimals during export. - Projected coordinates (metres) instead of degrees. - [Self-intersecting](/glossary/self-intersection/) or unclosed polygons. - Personal data in `properties` that should not travel with the file. Farmer1st converts KML, shapefiles, spreadsheets and field-app exports into validated GeoJSON through its [geo and polygons](/services/geo-polygons/) service. ## Frequently asked questions ### Is the coordinate order latitude, longitude? No. GeoJSON positions are [longitude, latitude], optionally followed by altitude. Swapping the order is one of the most common errors in EUDR geolocation files. ### How do KML or shapefiles relate to GeoJSON? They are other geospatial formats. KML is an OGC standard often used by mapping apps; shapefiles are a legacy GIS format. Both can be converted to GeoJSON, but conversions must preserve coordinate precision and the correct coordinate system. ## Sources - [IETF RFC 7946, The GeoJSON Format](https://datatracker.ietf.org/doc/html/rfc7946) - [European Commission, EUDR Information System](https://green-forum.ec.europa.eu/deforestation-regulation-implementation/information-system-deforestation-regulation_en) - [OGC KML standard](https://www.ogc.org/standards/kml/)