How to Import MBOX to Gmail Account?
Alora Eve | May 12th, 2026 | Import Emails
Summary: To import MBOX file into Gmail, you can use Thunderbird a free manual method or another by using an email client. Using these methods, you can transfer complete emails from MBOX to Gmail account. To understand these methods in more detail, you must follow this step-by-step guide till the end and learn various tips and trick to complete your task in more easy way.
If you are using MBOX file or receive it through anyone then you must know a few things about it. MBOX file is most commonly used file format generally created by many open-source email applications like Mozilla Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Eudora, SeaMonkey and several other email clients. The main problem comes when you don’t find its supported email client to open and access it. Here, transferring MBOX file data into Gmail account need occurs. However, there is no such a direct method offered by Gmail to import MBOX emails into it. Therefore, users often look for some reliable ways to transfer their MBOX emails into Gmail accounts securely.
So, without a further delay, let’s look into the methods in more detail.
Table of Contents
- Why Import MBOX to Gmail?
- Methods to Transfer MBOX to Gmail
2.1. Open MBOX File in Gmail With Thunderbird
2.2. Import MBOX Files to Gmail Without Thunderbird
2.3. Step-by-Step Guide Migrate MBOX to Gmail
2.4. Video Tutorial to Import MBOX to Gmail Without Thunderbird
2.5. Key Features of MBOX to Gmail Converter - Final Words
- FAQs
Real-World Use Cases of MBOX to Gmail Migration
I had downloaded 4 GB of Google Takeout MBOX file from my business account and was unable to transfer the same to my another business account. I needed it urgently to keep my crucial records and details of ongoing client communication.
At first, i tried to do it manually by using Thunderbird but ended up with lots of frustration because i wasn’t able to find any reliable way that can let me to transfer MBOX data into Gmail account directly. Also, i face issues like Thunderbird syncing issues and i wasn’t able to find out the real cause.
Since my mailbox contained important business emails so i needed a fast and safe solution.
After trying several manual solutions, I finally used Advik MBOX Converter, recommended in a Reddit discussion
Can you import an mbox file to gmail?
byu/notmeherenope inGMail
With this tool, i easily added my MBOX file and follow the steps as explained and transferred all data withon few minutes.
Why Import MBOX to Gmail?
There can be various reasons that insist users to transfer their MBOX file data into Gmail account. For instance, check out some most beneficial advantages that might help you to understand these reasons better;
- Access Emails from Anywhere: The major advantage of using any cloud based email service is that it is accessible from anywhere with just an internet connectivity. Once your MBOX emails are uploaded to Gmail, access it from desktop, mobile phone, tablet etc. as per your need and requirement.
- Better Security: In today’s digital age, data security is a big question in everyone’s mind. So, it’s important to choose an email service that provides a strong security features. Gmail has multiple security aspects, such as spam protection, phishing detection etc.
- Advanced Email Search: Searching a single keyword from multiple texts becomes difficult sometimes, here Gmail’s advanced search filter features works quickly in finding emails. It’s helpful when you manage large Gmail mailboxes together.
- Integration with Google Services: Google is not limit to only email service but also you can avail benefit of various Google’s services with the same email account. Gmail is integrated with various Google services such as Google Drive, Google Meet, Google Calendar etc. When you import your MBOX emails into Gmail, it becomes part of the entire Google ecosystem.
Methods to Upload MBOX to Gmail Account
Here, we’ll discuss two methods to import MBOX to Gmail, among which you will be able to find your solution as per your needs. The first method is manual, in which you will be able to import emails using MBOX supported email platform. The second one is an automated software that will directly convert MBOX to Gmail.
Now let us know each process in detail, one by one.
Method 1. How to Import MBOX File to Gmail With Thunderbird?
Users can access MBOX files in Gmail using any MBOX supported email client application, here we will use Thunderbird which is an open-source email client. This method require setting up IMAP email account and it may take some time depending on your mailbox.
1. Open the Thunderbird email client application on your Windows PC.
2. Click on the gear icon located in the bottom and choose Account Settings.
3. Then, tap on the + New Account option and select Mail Account.
4. Enter your Name and email address, click Continue.
5. Now, Thunderbird will automatically detect your IMAP settings.
6. Click Done to complete the sync process of your email account.
7. Once your account is added, your Gmail mailboxes will appear in the left panel of Thunderbird.
8. Next, install importExportTools NG plug-in in Thunderbird.
9. Once installed, right-click on the Local Folder and choose ImportExportTools NG >> Import MBOX File >> Individual MBOX File.
10. Select the MBOX file that you want to import and click Open tab.
11. After that, choose the MBOX folder under Local folder.
12. Right-click on it and choose Move To >> Gmail Account >> Mailbox folder.
This is how you can import MBOX file to Gmail account. However, this is a lengthy and time-consuming process.
Method 2. How to Transfer MBOX Files into Gmail Without Thunderbird?
If you want a direct and quick solution, check out the Advik MBOX Converter available for Windows PC. With this tool, you can migrate MBOX to Gmail in just a few simple clicks. Just run the tool, add .mbox files, choose Gmail as a saving option, enter Gmail account login credentials and press Convert to begin the importing process.
The software can import MBOX to Gmail in bulk. Also, it offers advanced email filter options to upload selected emails from MBOX file based on date range, to, from, subject, etc. It preserves data integrity and folder structure while importing.
A free trial is also available to migrate 25 emails per folder. Download the tool today and try it for FREE.
Click on the link button and download the free version to check its working steps.
Steps to Migrate MBOX to Gmail Account
Step 1. Run the software on your Windows PC.
Step 2. Click the Select Files option to add .mbox files.
Step 3. Select the email folder you want to import.
Step 4. Choose Gmail as the target source from the list of various options.
Step 5. Enter your Gmail account login details and click Convert.
The software will start uploading MBOX emails into Gmail account.
Once the process is completed, open your Gmail account and check the mailbox list. You will see a new folder with your .mbox file emails.
Watch How to Import MBOX to Gmail Without Thunderbird?
Prime Features of Advik MBOX to Gmail Import Tool
- Direct Solution: The software can directly upload MBOX to Gmail without any external installation.
- Bulk Importing: The tool has a dual mode to import single or multiple MBOX files to Gmail at once.
- Multiple Saving Options: It offers 20+ saving options to export MBOX to several file formats & cloud migration.
- Preserves Data Integrity: It keeps all important email properties like To, Cc, Bcc, from, attachments and many more while importing.
- Maintain Folder Structure: The tool keeps the original structure of MBOX email folders during the process.
- Email Filter Options: This utility provides advanced email filter options to import only selective emails as per user requirement.
- Simple GUI: The software is designed with advanced algorithms and a simple user graphical interface so that any user can use it without any issues.
- Windows Supportive: It is compatible with all the latest and old versions of Windows operating systems. Final Words
Common Problems During MBOX to Gmail Migration
If you have learned all these methods, then next step is to understand some common issues that you may face while transferring MBOX files.
- Stuck in importing emails: It usually happens if you have an unstable or a bad internet connection, if Gmail itself has server or sync issues or your Gmail mailbox side is more than it’s normal size.
- Authentication Issue: Google works with safety and security of it’s user’s data so it may block you from sign-in attempts if it finds any suspicious activity. Also, if your security settings are restricted.
- Duplicate Emails: If you don’t follow the steps carefully, then you may end up with duplicate email data and it will create a big confusion. So, follow the proper syncing rules or it may interrupt your migration.
Final Words
In this post, we have discussed how to import MBOX to Gmail with or without Thunderbird. Both methods are very helpful, but each has its own scenario for use. You can choose any solution as per your needs. However, if you face any issues while using any of these methtds explainen in ihhs article then you can get help from our support team. They are available 24/7 to solve your queries at earliest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How long does it take to convert a 5GB MBOX to Gmail?
Ans. The time to migrate emails from 5GB MBOX file to Gmail depends on several factors like internet speed, system performance and the method used. So, analyse your need and choose method accordingly.
If you use Thunderbird, it may take longer, while a professional tool can complete the process faster and more efficiently.
Q2. Can Gmail import MBOX file?
Ans. No, Gmail cannot directly import MBOX files. To do it, you need to use an email client like Thunderbird or a professional MBOX to Gmail converter tool.
Q3. Will my email attachments be preserved during MBOX to Gmail migration?
Ans. Yes, the software preserves all attachments, formatting, and metadata intact.
Q4. Is it possible to open multiple MBOX files in Gmail at once?
Ans. Yes, the tool allows to import multiple MBOX emails into your Gmail account in a sinlge attempt.
Q5. Can I import Apple MBOX file to Gmail with this tool?
Ans. Yes, you can transfer Apple MBOX file into Gmail without any hassle.
