How to Convert EML Files to PST Without Losing Emails?

Migrating emails seems complex sometimes, especially when messages are stored in EML format. When we open a large number of EML files in Outlook, it makes the emails difficult to organize and manage. Converting them to PST ensures the emails are arranged in a clear and structured format.

EML file only stores a single email message. EML files are stored with the .eml file extension, which stands for electronic mail. On the other hand, a PST (Personal Storage Table) file is Outlook’s personal storage format. PST stores an entire mailbox in a single structured container instead of creating separate files for each message.

This blog will explain why conversion matters and everything you need to know when we convert EML files to PST. Moreover, whether you are handling a personal mailbox or managing a large organization, you will find the best-suited method.

Common Reasons to Convert EML Files to PST?

Some of the main reasons why users convert files from EML to PST are:

• Scattered Multiple Emails in EML.

A large number of EML files are difficult to manage and organize. In PST, the emails are well-organized and properly structured.

• Outlook Compatibility.

Many users switch clients and want their messages to work seamlessly in Outlook.

• Data Integration.

Sometimes organizations merge email data from multiple sources into a single archive.

• Better Features.

Most users prefer Outlook’s interface and tools over their previous client.

What Can Happen During EML to PST Conversion?

Before choosing any conversion method, some risks can occur when we convert EML files to PST, which are:

• Email Missing: When conversion is done manually, some messages are not transferred.

• Corrupted Attachments: Files attached to emails may get damaged after the conversion.

• Lost Folder Structure: Organized folders can lose their hierarchy. All items may merge into a single unstructured mailbox.

• Duplicate Messages: The conversion process with the manual method can accidentally copy the same email multiple times.

• Changed Metadata: Important details such as sender names, dates, or timestamps might change after conversion.

Selecting the right conversion method is as important as the conversion itself because of these risks.

Manual Methods to Convert EML Files to PST

If you have very few emails for conversion, then a manual method is best. Here are some of the most common conversion methods:

Method 1: Import EML files to New Outlook

1. Go to Settings. Then go to Files and select Import.

2. After that, select Start Import.

3. Select the folder that contains the .eml files.

4. Then, select the destination account and folder.

5. Lastly, select Import.

This method migrates EML files to Outlook but does not convert them into PST format.

Moreover, only the files in the selected folders will be migrated, and it excludes the files in subfolders. EML files up to 14 MB are migrated.

Method 2: Drag and Drop into Outlook

1. Open Outlook and navigate to the target folder.

2. Select your EML files in File Explorer.

3. Then, drag them directly into the opened Outlook folder.

4. Outlook may convert each message automatically upon import.

However, this process only works for a small amount of data. Larger volumes often result in errors or skipped files.

Method 3: Using Outlook Express as a Bridge

1. Open Outlook.

2. Go to the File tab.

3. Now, click on Open & Export, then select Import/Export.

4. Select Import Internet Mail and Addresses, then Outlook Express.

5. Lastly, click on Next to complete the process.

This method is not commonly used because Outlook Express is no longer maintained or widely available.

Limitations of Manual EML to PST Conversion

Converting EML files to PST using the Manual Method comes with some limitations that are given below:

• The manual conversion process is time-consuming when converting multiple EML files.

• Only migrates EML files up to a fixed size.

• Risk of data loss or breaking the folder structure after conversion.

• Some methods depend on unsupported software.

• Unnecessary risk can occur while handling important business emails.

Because of all these limitations, many users opt for a professional EML files to PST converter.

Professional Solution to convert EML files to PST

However, using professional software like Shoviv EML to PST Converter can solve all the manual conversion-related problems. Some of the common features that the best EML to PST conversion tool from Shoviv provides:

• Efficiently handles EML files of any size.

• Converts multiple EML files in a single process with job-based processing.

• Users can set the size of the resulting PST files according to their needs.

• The original folder structure remains the same after the process.

• Technical and non-technical users can use it easily with its simple GUI.

• Prevents the conversion of duplicate items with its incremental export facility.

Steps to Convert EML files to PST Using Shoviv’s EML Converter

Step 1: Download and open Shoviv EML to PST Converter and add your EML files.

Step 2: After adding EML files, click on the Outlook PST option in the ribbon bar.

Step 3: Now, from the Export Type drop-down list, select Export in PST.

Step 4: In the Export Target section, add a password if you want to create a password-protected PST file. You can create more than one PST file as per the required size with the Split option.

Step 5: Now, from the Export Filter Criteria, you can include/ exclude Subject, From, and To.

Step 6: After filling in all the required details, click on the Export button. The final conversion process will start.

Step 7: After the process is complete, you can save the report in HTML file format with the Save Report button.

Conclusion

Both manual methods and professional tools can convert EML files to PST, but they are suitable for different scenarios. Moreover, manual conversion is suitable for small tasks. On the other hand, a third-party tool like Shoviv EML to PST Converter is best for large organizations and for converting multiple EML files. It is reliable and provides security for emails during the conversion. You should properly plan the conversion process before choosing the right method. After conversion, verify the result to ensure emails and folder structure remain intact.

Read more: https://www.shoviv.com/blog/how-to-convert-emails-from-eml-to-pst-file-for-outlook/

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do users convert EML to PST format?

Most users switch from EML to PST for better Outlook Compatibility. It also helps when merging emails from different sources into one archive. Moreover, PST offers better folder organization.

Which email clients support the EML format?

Almost all email clients support the EML format. Because EML is the universal email format used to save, export, or open individual messages in Outlook, Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Gmail, and more.

Why is the Outlook Express method not popular anymore?

Outlook Express is an old and outdated email program. It is no longer updated or officially supported by Microsoft. This makes the method unreliable for modern conversion.

How does a professional tool improve EML to PST conversion?

A professional tool like Shoviv EML to PST Converter efficiently handles large EML files. It also converts multiple EML files in a single job. The original folder structure remains the same after the conversion process.