Import MBOX to Gmail – Easy Steps & Complete Guide

Summary: MBOX is the most popular email file format that is used by multiple email clients such as Mozilla Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Eudora, SeaMonkey, etc. MBOX files store multiple email messages with intact attachments. Sometimes, users want to switch from MBOX to Gmail. Users need to import MBOX files into their Gmail account. Gmail does not directly support MBOX import. In this blog, there are multiple methods to transfer MBOX emails to Gmail. In this guide, we will use the step-by-step process for importing MBOX files into Gmail.

Why Import MBOX to Gmail?

Unlike with typical desktop email applications, Gmail, a popular cloud-based email service, has the following advantages:

  • Emails can be accessed via Gmail on any internet-connected device.
  • Google Mail’s strong security features guard against spam and phishing attempts.
  • Gmail has a large storage capacity and integrates with Google Drive.
  • Integration with third-party apps or Google Workspace is simple with Gmail.
  • Gmail can manage emails easier with, its advanced search features and labeling.

Method 1: Import MBOX to Gmail by Using Mozilla Thunderbird

Mozilla Thunderbird is a free email client that supports MBOX files. Thunderbird can be used to transfer emails to Gmail.

Step 1: Configure Gmail in Thunderbird

  • Enter the Gmail credentials.
  • Select Forwarding and POP/IMAP under Settings > View all settings.
  • Choose Enable IMAP from the IMAP access section.
  • Press “Save Changes.”
  • Mozilla Thunderbird should be downloaded and installed.
  • Launch Thunderbird, then select Account Settings.
  • After selecting Add Mail Account, provide your Gmail login information.
  • Thunderbird will set up Gmail’s IMAP instantly.

Step 2: Import MBOX File into Thunderbird

  • Click Menu > Add-ons and Themes after launching Thunderbird.
  • Install ImportExportTools NG after searching for it.
  • Select Local Folders with a right-click.
  • To import an MBOX file, select ImportExportTools NG > Import.
  • Select the MBOX file after selecting Import directly one or more MBOX files.
  • Emails will load in Thunderbird when you click Open.

Step 3: Transfer Emails to Gmail

  • The imported emails can be selected in Thunderbird.
  • Place MBOX in Inbox, Sent, or custom label folder of your choice by drag n drop them.
  • Gmail account will get the emails synced by Thunderbird.

Method 3: Third-Party Solution to Import MBOX to Gmail

In today’s world there are several third-party tools that allow directly importing MBOX to Gmail account. Users can use the BLR MBOX Converter Tool to import MBOX files to Gmail account. This tool can simply convert MBOX emails to Gmail account.

Steps to import MBOX emails to Gmail:

  • Download the BLR MBOX Converter tool.
  • Add MBOX file and preview emails.
  • Connect to Gmail by entering credentials such as Email ID and Password.
  • Select destination folder in Gmail.
  • Start migration process by clicking “Convert” button.
  • Wait for completion.

Conclusion

Importing MBOX files to Gmail is a crucial task for users. When individual switching MBOX emails from desktop email clients or transferring emails between accounts. While Gmail lacks a built-in MBOX import feature. Users can use Mozilla Thunderbird or a professional method to complete the task. Thunderbird offers a free or reliable manual method. Expert solution provides a safe solution to move bulk MBOX files to Gmail account. Users can choose any method that best suits their needs.

March 1, 2025