Importing a PST File Into Outlook
When you’re switching devices, migrating accounts, or simply needing access to an old archive of emails, knowing how to import a PST file into Outlook is crucial as PST files have all Outlook data like emails, contacts, calendar events, tasks, and notes.
ALSO: When you export your mailbox data or archive emails in Outlook, they’re typically saved in the PST format.
Methods to Import PST into Outlook
Here are a few effective solutions that I do to import a PST file into Outlook:
Method 1: Outlook’s Built-in Import/Export
- Launch Outlook, go to File >Open & Export > Import/Export
- Choose the Outlook Data File (.pst)
- Browse to the location of your PST file and select it.
- Choose to import all folders or select specific ones.
- Select the folder in your Outlook profile where you want to import the PST file contents.
- Click Finish to start the import process
Method 2: Using a Cloud Storage Service
If you want to share the PST file with others or access it from multiple devices, then try this:
Upload PST files to OneDrive or other cloud storage services like Google Drive, or Dropbox.
Add the cloud storage account as a connected service and access the PST file.
Method 3: Outlook Transfer Tool
If you have a large PST file or are unable to locate the PST file, the above solutions may be tedious. We recommend using an Outlook migration tool to help in situations like these.
You can try Rikvr Transfer for Outlook, as it is safe and efficient for importing PST files into different Outlook versions, including M365. Here’s how the software can import and export outlook data files into Outlook in just a few simple clicks.
Part 1: Backing up PSTFile
- Close Outlook and related applications.
- Open Rikvr Transfer For Outlook click on Transfer Outlook and choose Backup
- Select Advanced Backup.
- Select Backup Now to create a new profile and click on Next.
- After creating the backup file, Select the Transfer option
- Select the recently generated backup file and click Next
- Select the PST file and click Next. Once the process is completed, click on Finish
Common Issues While Importing PST Files into Outlook
While it seems like a simple process, sometimes, but doesn’t go as smoothly as planned. Here are a few common issues that can happen when loading PST files into Outlook and how to tackle them:
Large PST Files: Older Outlook versions may struggle with large PST files. If your PST File is big then you can split the PST and export import them individually.
Access Denied Error: When you are unable to access the PST file due to permissions issues. Ensure the PST file isn’t read-only and that you have the necessary permissions to access it.
- Right-click the PST file and select Properties.
- Uncheck the Read-only box if it’s checked.
PST Not Showing All Folders: If not all folders or emails appear after the import, ensure that the Include subfolders box was checked during the import process.
Conclusion:
There are many reasons to import a PST file into Outlook, such as restoring a backup, upgrading Outlook, or moving to a new device or platform.
Importing PST files into Outlook is generally straightforward if you follow the steps carefully. We hope this guide has provided you with the necessary information or tools to complete the task.
Remember to handle your PST files carefully, back them up regularly, and ensure they are not corrupted before importing. With these steps, your Outlook data will be in place in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions
The easiest way to search for PST files is to use the file search function on your computer and search for “*.pst”. PST files are usually saved in a folder named “Outlook Files.”
You can use Outlook’s built-in Inbox Repair Tool (SCANPST.EXE) to scan and fix errors in the PST file or use any other this-party PST repair tools to repair corrupt PST files.
No, you cannot directly import a PST file into Outlook for Mac. You would need to first convert the PST file into an OLM file to import it into Outlook for Mac.
