Import MSG to IMAP– Complete Migration Guide

Samuel’s Query: Our organisation is very frequent with switching platforms. Therefore, I need to import my hundreds of Outlook MSG files into my IMAP email account so I can access them after every switch easily across multiple devices. Suggest a reliable way to import MSG to IMAP without losing data?

Overview: It can be challenging to manage Outlook MSG files during frequent platform switches. That is why several organisations prefer to import their MSG files to IMAP. This is because IMAP keeps emails stored on the server & synced across devices, so they can access their Outlook emails anywhere without any data loss. This blog is written to guide such users on the use of ConverterTools MSG Converter and a manual approach. Read this blog to get more insights.

Why Import MSG to IMAP? 

The following are the most common reasons why a user would want to import MSG files to IMAP. 

  1. Users can access your MSG files from any device via IMAP.
  2. As well as they can easily centralize their MSG files on a secure server.
  3. Moreover, it becomes easier to switch between different email platforms.
  4. In addition, IMAP keeps all your emails synced across different devices.
  5. Also, individuals can keep their attachments & folder structure intact. 

Top Solutions to Import MSG file to IMAP Server

Here, in this blog, we will explore two different methods to open MSG files in IMAP Server. 

  • Manual Method
  • Automated Approach

Solution 1: Import MSG to IMAP Using Outlook

There is no direct option to import MSG files to IMAP; users can use Microsoft Outlook as an intermediary. However, this method can take you long hours to drag and drop multiple EML files. Below are the steps involved:

  1. To start, run the Microsoft Outlook application on your system.
  2. Then, you have to drag & drop your MSG files into an Outlook mailbox folder.
  3. After that, enter your correct server details.
  4. Then, configure your IMAP email account.
  5. Afterward, move the imported MSG emails into the IMAP mailbox folders.
  6. This will take some time for the emails to synchronize with the IMAP server

Limitations of the Manual Method 

  1. This method can take you long hours to complete the import process. 
  2. Users must download MS Outlook to proceed with this approach.
  3. Moreover, it is not practical to import a large number of MSG files using drag and drop.
  4. Additionally, there is a high possibility of data loss and corruption. 
  5. Also, this method requires a stable internet connection for synchronization.

Solution 2: Most Recommended Solution to Import MSG to IMAP

ConverterTools MSG Converter is a direct solution used to import MSG files to IMAP within a few clicks. Users can be provided with a user-friendly & interactive GUI. Even non-technical users can easily convert MSG to HTML, CSV, PDF, PST, & other file formats. In addition, you can import multiple MSG files at the same time, that too after previewing your emails and attachments, leading to data integrity. Also, you can refine your file selection using the built-in filters like remove duplicates, skip previous migration, & custom folder name as per your requirements. 

Quick Steps to Import MSG to IMAP

  1. First, install the ConverterTools MSG Converter >> open it.

    Install ConverterTools MSG Converter
  2. Then, load the MSG files to import using the Select Files/Folders option.

    Click Select Files/Folders
  3. After that, select your MSG files >> preview them in the right panel.

    Preview selected MSG files
  4. Now, mark the email clients radio button >> choose IMAP from the dropdown list.

    Choose IMAP
  5. Then, enter your valid IMAP credentials >> log in to it.

    Log in to IMAP account
  6. You can use the advanced filters as per your requirements.

    Use the advanced filters
  7. At last, click the Convert button to save MSG files to IMAP.

    Click Convert button

Conclusion

In the above blog, we discussed two different methods to import MSG to IMAP. Both methods have their own advantages, but in the end, the choice of method depends on the kind of user you are. For technical users with a small amount of data, the manual approach is more suitable. Whereas, if you are a beginner, you can opt for the automated solution.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q.1 How can I save MSG files to an IMAP mailbox?

Ans. You can save MSG files to an IMAP mailbox, using the above automated solution.
Steps to import are as follows: 
1. Install and open ConverterTools MSG Converter.
2. Add MSG files using Select Files/Folders.
3. Preview selected MSG emails.
4. Choose IMAP from the email client list.
5. Enter valid IMAP login credentials.
6. Apply filters if required.
7. Click Convert to start the process.

Q.2 Can I migrate MSG files to IMAP server without Outlook?

Ans. Yes, you can migrate MSG files to IMAP server without Outlook, using the ConverterTools MSG Converter.

Q.3 What is the best way to migrate MSG email files to IMAP server?

Ans. ConverterTools MSG Converter is the best way to migrate MSG email files to IMAP server.

5/5 - (1 vote)

About The Author:

Loic Traves is a seasoned technical expert who has helped thousands of clients with Microsoft Outlook and various cloud-based email platforms. He enjoys writing about email client backups and migration processes. Passionate about supporting users in need, he strives to provide the latest insights, clear explanations, and practical, user-friendly solutions.

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