1. One or more tangible computer-readable media storing computer-executable instructions for causing a client programmed thereby to perform a method comprising: with the client, receiving a batch insert request comprising a plurality of insert operations for a partitioned table; with the client, splitting the plurality of insert operations into a plurality of operation batches according to partition metadata, wherein the partition metadata indicates how to partition the plurality of insert operations between a plurality of database nodes; and from the client, issuing the plurality of operation batches to the plurality of database nodes for execution according to the partition metadata.