Quick Summary: Migrating MBOX (Mailbox) files into Gmail or any format can be tricky as the migration process involves several steps, basic technical knowledge, efforts along with patience, etc. This article is here to explore the best approach and outlines how a user can convert MBOX to Gmail with ease, reasons to shift from one platform to another, best method or process to follow in order to have smooth and efficient conversion, etc. Let’s dive in! 

What are MBOX files? 

In several email clients, MBOX format is used by default for backup and to migrate MBOX files into another email client. It’s a common and popular format used to store a collection of emails from an email client in an individual file (plain text).  

What are Gmail files? 

Gmail is a free email service offered by Google and it’s a part of Google workspace. Gmail is popular among users worldwide, as it delivers free service and authorizes the user to send, receive along with multiple attachments (photos, videos, documents, etc.), organize and can manage the emails with free advanced features such as robust spam filtering, powerful search and integrates with other popular Google services.  

Gmail supports the MBOX format, which is mainly used for backup or migration which helps to transfer files to another email client and this format is mostly used when a user wants to export their data. In simple words, MBOX is an simplest way to export MBOX files especially to move files and for backup.  

Why Switching from MBOX to Gmail Makes Sense for Email Users 

The primary reasons for users to switch or shift from MBOX to Gmail, vary from person to person. But, yes we will explore some of the main reasons which make sense for a user to migrate from one email client to another.  

• Google is providing the Gmail email service for free and most users trust the Google company and this is the reason why users shift from MBOX to Gmail. 
• The free service integrates with other Google services such as Google Meet, Contacts, Calendars, Drive, Map, Gemini,  Docs, Sheets and many more.  
• To maintain user data protection, Google provides high and strong security from unauthorized users such as 2-Step Verification, spam filter, etc.  
• With the help of Gmail, users can access, manage and organize the data with ease.  

How to Convert MBOX to Gmail Manually Without Errors? 

Note* 

• Install the Mozilla Thunderbird. 
• Prepare a backup before Converting files from MBOX to Gmail account. 
• Create a Gmail account. 
• Do not use large size MBOX files. 
• Stable internet connection should be there. 

Stepwise DIY Process  

1. Download Thunderbird. 

• Once the email client (Mozilla Thunderbird) is installed, open it. 

1. Download “ImportExportTools NG” 

• Now, install the “ImportExportTools NG” add-on in thunderbird, by selecting the Add-ons and Themes. 

• After installation and restart Thunderbird to activate the ImportExportTools NG. 

1. Add Gmail Account to Thunderbird 

• To add a Gmail account in Thunderbird. Click on the account settings > account actions >add mail account. 

• Now, type the credentials. 

• Thunderbird will automatically configure your Gmail account. To finish the Gmail adding process. 

1. Upload/Import MBOX Files in Thunderbird 

• For importing MBOX files to local folder or any other folder do “right-click” 

• Select ImportExportTools NG > Import MBOX file and upload the needed MBOX files to switch into Thunderbird. 

1. Verify Imported MBOX Files 

• After importing the MBOX files, verify them in local folders or the folder where you’ve imported the files. 

1. Migrate into Gmail 

• Drag all the Imported MBOX files and drop into the Gmail account. 

• Thunderbird email client will automatically sync the emails with the add Gmail through IMAP. 

1. Verify in Gmail 

• The process has been finished and now loginthe add Gmail account on the browser to verify the MBOX files are successfully exported into Gmail. 

Limitations 

• Having zero technical knowledge can lead to errors that can occur during the conversion procedure. 
• If the user is not keeping the backup before the conversion process, then he/she can lose the data.  
• Manual process isn’t automated. So, users need to follow several steps.  
• In this manual method, large size files can create problems.  

Using a Third-Party BLR MBOX Converter- Import MBOX Files to Gmail Account

There are numerous MBOX converters available in the market.  

1. Online MBOX Converter Tool 

Users can use the online MBOX converter, where you don’t need to install any software but it has limitations. 

1. BLR MBOX File converter   

It's open source for both Windows and Mac users. 

1. User can directly Convert MBOX files 

Yes, using an MBOX Converter, users can convert MBOX to Gmail directly. If you're a user who wants to export MBOX files Directly and quickly without compromising the data then, BLR MBOX Converter Tool, can help you convert MBOX files not only to Gmail but any format.  

All approaches have been shared with you, it depends on the user which method they prefer and suits them.