-
Written By
Simran Bhatia -
Approved By
Sonika Rawat -
Updated on
December 6th, 2025 -
Read Time
7 minutes
Learn How to Import EML to IMAP Server? Quick Guide
EML files are a common format used by various clients, such as Thunderbird, Windows Live Mail, and others. But when you need a more centralized, cloud-platform access, EML files aren’t very supportive. Therefore, a need arises for the IMAP Server, which helps preserve the integrity of the email message content and exchange data feasibly across platforms. To achieve this, the user needs to import EML to IMAP, which is possible using the free method and an EML Converter Tool, as explained in this guide.
“Hi! I am a project manager at a marketing company and have some EML files (say, around 15,000) received from a client. Earlier, I had Thunderbird, but now I am working on Outlook.com servers and thus, need to access EML files on the same. I am worried about the data structure and formatting. Suggest a suitable way that can instantly open EML files on an IMAP server without any breaks.”
-Melone Briganza
Modern Day Needs to Import EML File to IMAP Server
IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) stores all your data on the server, ensuring it is globally accessible as needed. The most general reasons for importing EML files to IMAP are:
- Unified data visibility across multiple platforms and devices
- Better indexing for the search and optimal folder management
- Multi-user accessibility at once for teamwork and communications
- Ultimate cloud backup with granular control over the data
- Storage creation by clearing the clutter from the local desktop
- Archiving crucial communications for compliance and legal tasks
- Platform independence since IMAP functions solely on the cloud
- Centralized remote data access with complete security and originality
Import EML to IMAP Server, But How?
To import EML files to Google Workspace, Gmail, Zimbra, Yahoo Mail, cPanel, Roundcube, Outlook.com, and others, you need IMAP. The EML to IMAP import can be performed with any of these methods:
- Manual Solution: A cost-free approach that can be performed manually on the system with EML-compatible clients.
- Professional Solution: A dedicated software that eases the import task in minimal time without hassle or risks.
Go through each of the methods below in detail for a clear and accurate understanding.
Method 1: Upload EML to IMAP Using Mozilla Thunderbird
This is the most commonly used manual process for EML to IMAP imports. It is a reliable free solution, just make sure you have an installed and active Thunderbird profile on your OS before proceeding. The steps are:
- Launch Mozilla Thunderbird and click the More Menu to choose Add Account.
- Then, under Account Actions, click Add Mail Account and enter the IMAP account details.
- After that, complete the configuration process with proper credentials and reload Thunderbird to verify IMAP folders on the left.
- Next, check that you have your EML files in the Thunderbird profile.
- Alternatively, import EML files into Thunderbird using ImportExportTools NG.
- Now, simply drag and drop EML files into the IMAP folder to finish the import.
Drag & Drop Alternative to Import EML to IMAP Server
- Create a new folder (EML Archive) under your IMAP Mailboxes.
- Then, select the EML files added to Thunderbird, right-click, and pick Move To.
- At last, select the IMAP folder and complete the transfer. Wait for Thunderbird to completely sync all the messages.
Limitations:
- Fast only for a few hundred emails, and then it starts lagging.
- Takes longer to sync for EML files with large attachments.
- Increased risk of human errors as folder mapping must be checked manually.
- Sluggish performance with multiple or bulk EML files.
Note:
If desired, you can repeat this process with any other EML client, such as Outlook or Windows Live Mail. Just add your IMAP account and drag and drop EML files.
Method 2: Migrate EML Files to IMAP With EML Converter
When you have more than 2 GB mailboxes, automation comes in handy. SysInfo EML File Converter Tool is a smart utility designed to handle a bulk volume of EML files with ease. It enables users to import them directly to the desired IMAP account with an easy-to-use interface, retaining the entire body content, metadata, attachments, and structure formatting. Moreover, it has a Demo Version that allows you to save EML files to IMAP (upto 50 per folder) at no cost and also test its functionalities.
Other Key Benefits of Using Dedicated Software Are:
|
One-Time Conversion For more customization and a speedy import, you can avail SysInfo One-Time Service, where our experts will take care of the entire process and deliver 100% accurate results in minimal time. |
Use Advanced Filters The excellent tool has some unique built-in features (Remove Duplicate, Date Filter, Manage Attachmnets, etc.), and import EML to Zoho Mail and other clients or save locally. |
Offers Client Support If you have any queries or concerns related to the software or require additional details on upload EML to IMAP and other functions, contact our highly qualified technical support 24*7. |
05 Simple Steps to Import EML to IMAP Server
- Get started with your EML File Converter Software and click Next.
- Then, choose the .eml messages from the PC and select them to load. Tap Next.
- Further, in the preview pane, check out the emails and select them. Tap Next.
- Afterward, choose IMAP from the email clients list and enter the credentials.
- Complete the sign-in, and use the filters as needed. Finally, tap Convert to save.
This is the simplest and easiest way for your instant import of EML files with no loss.
IMAP Configuration Details for Different Clients
The following details will be helpful to import EML file to IMAP Server:
App Passwords:
Gmail iCloud
Yahoo Zoho
AOL Yandex
IMAP Server Details:
- Gmail: imap.gmail.com
- Yahoo Mail: imap.mail.yahoo.com
- Outlook.com: imap-mail.outlook.com
- Zoho Mail: imap.zoho.com
- AOL: imap.aol.com
- Yandex Mail: imap.yandex.com
- Office 365: outlook.office365.com
Conclusion
The decision to import EML to IMAP server states that you want efficiency and long-term accessibility of your data. The concern for this import is real, as a small mistake in the IMAP credentials or the process can halt the transfer and result in data loss. But with smart and optimal methods, you can perform a clean and secure migration of your EML files. The basic manual method is suitable for a few EML files, but for scale, speed, and trust, use the professional EML Conversion Tool. It handles bulk volumes without difficulties and gives precise results in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What do I need to migrate EML files to IMAP for free?
Ans. If you are migrating emails manually, then you require:
1. IMAP Server Credentials
2. A mediator active email application (Thunderbird/Outlook)
3. Stable Internet Connection
However, with the verified EML to IMAP Import Tool, you can save upto 50 EML per folder at no cost directly into IMAP accounts.
Q2. Is it safe to use the third-party software for importing EML files to IMAP?
Ans. Yes, it is completely secure to use the software as it uses secure OAuth authentication directly through the browser for login. Also, it has no database storage for your credentials and data within.
Q3. Can I use this SysInfo Tool on my Mac OS?
Ans. Of course, you can use this SysInfo EML Converter on any version of Mac or Windows OS. It supports EML files created from all applications, like Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Entourage, Windows Live Mail, etc.
About The Author:
Simran Bhatia is a technical content writer engaged in writing clear, concise, and SEO-optimized content. With a background in computer science and a passion for writing, I thrive to deliver complex technical content in simple layman terms.
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