Instantly Import Outlook OST to Apple Mail Account

Apple Mail, the native macOS email client, offers a sleek interface, deep integration with macOS features, and robust security. It’s a natural choice for Mac users transitioning from a Windows-based Outlook environment. However, Outlook OST files aren’t directly compatible with Apple Mail, requiring a structured migration process.

Understanding OST Files: What Makes Them Tricky?

OST (Offline Storage Table) files allow Outlook to access emails, calendars, and tasks offline. These files are tied to specific profiles and cannot be directly imported into Apple Mail due to format incompatibility. Apple Mail requires MBOX or EML file formats, necessitating a conversion step. With the help of the automated solution, you can directly convert OST to Apple Mail. 

How to Import OST to Apple Mail?

Migrating from Outlook to Apple Mail? One challenge often faced is transferring your Outlook OST (Offline Storage Table) files into Apple Mail. While both platforms have unique email systems, there’s a way to bridge the gap without losing essential data. Here’s how you can effortlessly import your OST files into Apple Mail and continue your work without a hitch.

Solution 01: Native Solution to Import Outlook OST to Apple Mail

There isn’t a direct, native solution to import OST to Apple Mail. Outlook and Apple Mail use different file formats for email storage and management. However, you can achieve this using an organized process through the different processes:

Step 01: Convert OST to PST Using Microsoft Outlook

1. Open Microsoft Outlook on a Windows PC.
2. Navigate to the “File” menu, then choose “Open & Export” → “Import/Export.”
3. In the “Import and Export Wizard,” select “Export to a file” and click “Next.”
4. Choose “Outlook Data File (.pst)” as the export file type and proceed by clicking “Next.”
5. Select the folder you want to export from Outlook.
6. Specify the file name and destination for the exported file, then click “Finish.”

Step 02: Convert PST File to MBOX File

To convert a PST file to an MBOX file, proceed as follows:

1. Open Microsoft Outlook and import the PST file into it.
2. Launch the Thunderbird application, go to “Tools,” and select the “Import” option.
3. Choose “Mail” and click “Next.”
4. Select “Outlook” from the options and click “Next.”
5. The emails will appear under a folder named “Outlook Import” in Thunderbird’s Local Folders. Close the Import window.
6. Open Thunderbird and install the ImportExportTools NG extension.
7. Navigate to “Tools” → “ImportExportTools” → “Export all folders.”
8. Choose a destination folder to save the exported files and click “Select Folder.”

You now have an MBOX file containing all the emails from your PST file.

Step 03: Import OST Files into Mac Mail

To import the MBOX file into Apple Mail, follow these steps:

1. Open Apple Mail and go to “File.”
2. Select “Import Mailboxes.”
3. Choose “Files in .mbox format” and click “Continue.”
4. Locate and select the MBOX file, then initiate the import process.

Once the MBOX file is imported, your OST file data will be accessible in Apple Mail. While this is a manual method, it does come with certain limitations.

Limitations of Native Methods:

• Native methods often involve intermediate steps, such as converting PST to MBOX.
• Outlook does not directly support exporting to MBOX.
• This approach requires Microsoft Outlook for Mac, which may not always be available.

For simpler alternatives, automated is the appropriate solution for direct OST-to-MBOX conversion may save time and effort.

Also Read: Export Contacts from OST File

Solution 02: The Instant Solution: Using an Advanced OST to Apple Mail Converter to Import OST to Apple Mail

The fastest and most efficient way to migrate is by using a specialized utility to convert OST files into MBOX, Apple Mail’s preferred format. The DRS OST to PST Converter provides a hassle-free experience with features like batch conversion, data integrity preservation, and folder hierarchy maintenance. After converting OST files to formats compatible with Mac Mail, such as MBOX or EML, users can easily import their emails into the Apple Mail application. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, ensuring broad usability. Also, it can handle large OST files without performance issues. Here are the steps to convert OST to Apple Mail: 

Import OST to Apple Mail Within a Few Clicks

• Install the DRS OST to PST Converter software on your system.
• Use the “Select Files” option to upload the Outlook OST files into the software.
• Browse through the displayed tree structure, select the specific files or folders you want to convert and proceed by clicking the “Next” button.
• Now, pick Appel Mail from the given option >> Enter the login credentials to Sign In. 
• Use the selective conversion option if needed and apply filters like date range or specific email addresses.
• At last, click the “Convert” button to import Outlook OST to Apple Mail. 

The Conventional Methods: Which you should prefer?

Traditional approaches often involve manual conversion with limited functionality. Manual steps are complex, prone to errors, and often result in data loss. Opting for a reliable, automated tool ensures accuracy, efficiency, and integrity during import process.

Conclusion

The migration from Outlook OST to Apple Mail is complex due to different formats and compatibility issues. However, with the right tools and steps, you can import OST to Apple Mail smoothly while ensuring no emails or important data are lost. With this advanced conversion tool, you can instantly import your OST files into Apple Mail with minimal effort and maximum reliability. Along with that, it offers a free trial version to evaluate the tool’s features. In terms of using the software, if you face any issues frequently connect to our tech support team for further assistance.