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How do I create MBOX file from Outlook?

How do I create MBOX file from outlook?


To create MBOX file from Outlook file demands conversion of Outlook PST file to MBOX file format. In this article, we will explore the solutions to create MBOX from Outlook file. You will come to know both manual as well as professional solution to migrate Outlook file to MBOX file.


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MBOX Format


MBOX is a universal file format that supports multiple email clients including Mozilla Thunderbird, Entourage, SeaMonkey, Apple Mail, Spicebird, OperaMail, Pocomail, Mulberry, etc.

Need for creating MBOX file from Outlook


We all know that Thunderbird is a free emailing client and can run easily on multiple operating systems. So, one of the reason to export Outlook file to MBOX file is Thunderbird cross-platform migration. Thunderbird is a handy application and is useful for both individuals and business users.

Manual Approach to create MBOX file from MS Outlook


First, create IMAP account and create Gmail account.

  • Log in to Gmail account
  • Click on Gear button and the top right side
  • Click Settings
  • Now, on settings page, click on Labels tab.
  • Click Create new label button for creating the new label.
  • Now, go to Outlook
  • Click Send/Receive button
  • Make sure to show the label that has been created earlier.
  • Ensure show-in-IMAP option is checked

Once IMAP account is synced with Outlook, move mailbox data from Outlook PST to this IMAP mailbox folder.

  • Now, open Outlook profile
  • Go to Control panel
  • Search for Mail
  • Click Data files tab
  • Select IMAP account
  • Click Open Folder to open the folder containing PST.
  • Move required PST file at desired location
  • Now, switch to Data Files window.
  • Double-click account’s data file
  • You might get ‘Can’t find’ error
  • Tell Outlook to find it
  • Close all dialogue boxes
  • Now, start MS Outlook and continue with the process to create MBOX file from Outlook

Now, move all data from IMAP mailbox folder to Thunderbird.

  • Setup same IMAP emailing account for Thunderbird
  • Drag IMAP all mailbox folder data to Thunderbird Inbox Folder

Drawbacks of Manual Approach

  • Very confusing especially for non-technical person
  • Less reliable
  • Lengthy and complicated steps

Professional Approach to create MBOX File from Outlook


If you find the manual technique not suitable for you then you can move towards third-party solutions like PST to MBOX Converter. It is primarily designed to export Outlook files into MBOX file format. Without any size limitations, it completes the conversion. Both ANSI and UNICODE PST files of Outlook are supported by the software.


Steps to create MBOX from Outlook data file with the software –

  • Install the software on any Windows system.
  • Add Outlook PST file.
  • Check preview and click on Export.
  • Choose MBOX format and a location to export MBOX file.
  • Click on the Convert Now button and this will create MBOX file at user-defined location.

Summing Up


In this article, we have clearly explained two different methods to create MBOX file from Outlook data file and both methods work. Users can pick these methods as per their requirements. However, we highly recommend professional approach that is safe to use and offers instant results without any confusion. You can go for the trial version to understand the working of the program.