Switching from Gmail to Office 365 Outlook might seem daunting, especially when it comes to your email history. But fear not! Transferring your emails from Google Takeout to Office 365 Outlook mail is achievable. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring a smooth migration of your important messages.
Understanding Google Takeout and Mbox Files
Google Takeout is a fantastic tool offered by Google that allows you to download your data from various Google services, including Gmail. When you download your Gmail data through Takeout, you’ll receive it in a special format called Mbox. Mbox files can’t be directly imported into Office 365 Outlook.
Preparing for the Transfer: Downloading Your Gmail with Google Takeout
- Head to Google Takeout: Visit https://takeout.google.com/settings/takeout and sign in with your Google account.
- Deselect All and Choose Mail: You’ll see a list of Google products you can download data from. Click “Deselect All” and then scroll down to select only the “Mail” option.
- Choose File Type and Archive Size: Under “Select data to include,” you can choose the specific labels or folders you want to download and the desired archive size. Click “Next” once you’ve made your selections.
- Create Your Export: Choose your preferred export frequency and file type (e.g., .zip). Finally, click “Create export” to initiate the download process. Google will notify you via email once your archive is ready.
Importing Mbox Files into Office 365 Outlook (Using Third-Party Software)
Since Mbox files aren’t natively compatible with Outlook, we’ll need the help of a third-party application. Here’s a general outline of the process (specific steps might vary depending on the software you choose):
- Download and Install Mbox to PST Converter: There are several reputable data migration tools available. Research and select a converter program compatible with your operating system.
- Launch the Converter and Add Mbox Files: Open the chosen software and locate the option to add Mbox files. Browse to your downloaded Google Takeout archive and select the Mbox files containing your emails.
- Convert to PST and Choose Destination: The software will typically allow you to preview the emails and attachments before conversion. Choose the desired output format (PST – Outlook Data File) and specify the location where you want to save the converted PST file.
- Import PST File into Outlook: Open Microsoft Outlook and navigate to the “File” tab. Click on “Open & Export” and then select “Import/Export.” In the Import and Export Wizard, choose “Import from another program or file” and follow the on-screen instructions to import the PST file you just created.
Note: To transfer a PST file into Exchange Online with Office 365, you must first configure your Outlook desktop app with your Office 365 account.
Important Considerations for Google Takeout to Office 365 Outlook Transfer
- Third-Party Software Selection: While there are many data converter programs available, be sure to choose a reputable one with positive user reviews. Well, I suggest the Shoviv MBOX file Converter tool for this task. This software comes with a free trial option.
- Data Security: Since you’ll be granting access to your email data, choose a converter program with a strong security reputation and clear privacy practices.
- Large Mailboxes: If you have a large mailbox with a significant amount of data, the conversion process might take some time. Be patient and allow the software to complete the task uninterrupted.
Learn: How to Open MBOX Files Downloaded from Google Takeout?
Conclusion:
You see how easy it is to perform a seamless migration. Besides converting the Google takeout MBOX file into PST; you can directly migrate it to Office365 (Exchange Online) with the same mentioned tool. By following these steps and keeping the considerations in mind, you can successfully transfer your emails from Google Takeout to Office 365 Outlook. Now you can access your important messages seamlessly within your new email platform.
