psql invalid command \N while restore sql

Question

I'm trying to restore my dump file, but it caused an error:

psql:psit.sql:27485: invalid command \N

Is there a solution? I searched, but I didn't get a clear answer.

Answer 1

In Postgres, "\N" is used as a substitute symbol for a NULL value. 

But all the psql commands start with backslash "\" symbol. Therefore, you may get the messages like a copy statement fails, but the loading of dump continues. This message will be a false alarm. 

You need to search the lines before,  for the reason why the COPY statement fails.

It's possible to switch psql to "stop on first error" mode and to find error like this:

psql -v ON_ERROR_STOP=1

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Answer 2

In Postgres, the symbol "\N" is utilized as a replacement for a NULL value.

However, every psql command is initiated with the backslash "\" symbol. Hence, you might receive notifications about a failed copy statement while the dumping process still proceeds. This message is going to be a mistaken warning.

You should investigate the preceding lines to determine the cause of the failure of the COPY statement.

You can change psql to "stop on first error" mode and locate errors in this way.

psql -v ON_ERROR_STOP=1