Suggest you share more code, specifically the format import step. But before that, consider that your format must be in the FMTSEARCH= catalog search list for SAS to find the format. Use SAS PROC OPTIONS to learn your current FMTSEARCH option, and either load/import your format to WORK.FORMATS catalog or add your personal format library content to the FMTSEARCH search order.
Scott Barry
SBBWorks, Inc.