Bulk insert statements are a powerful tool for loading large amounts of data into a database table. They are significantly faster than inserting rows individually, which can be extremely time-consuming for large datasets. This is particularly important when dealing with data imports from external sources like CSV files, flat files, or other databases. These methods are optimized for handling large volumes of data, minimizing the time it takes to populate the database. The specific syntax and available options vary slightly between different database systems (like SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL), but the core concept remains the same: efficient loading of data. Understanding bulk insert techniques is essential for any database professional working with large datasets.