Securely Import EML Files into Thunderbird: Step-by-Step Guide

Importance Of Importing EML Files Into Thunderbird

Importing EML files into Thunderbird is a common task for users transitioning between email clients or managing email archives. Here’s a deeper look into the reasons and benefits of this process:

• Users often switch from email clients like Outlook Express, Windows Live Mail, or Apple Mail, which save messages in EML format. Importing these files into Thunderbird helps maintain access to past emails without losing any data.
• EML files keep the original look of emails, including any attachments, headers, and formatting. When you import them into Thunderbird, you make sure your emails stay the same as they were.
• Thunderbird has special features like custom filters, strong search tools, and add-ons. When you import EML files, you can use these features to manage your emails better.
• EML files can serve as backups for your emails. If you’ve saved important emails as EML files, importing them into Thunderbird allows you to restore and access them easily.
• If you have saved emails as EML files for backup, importing them into Thunderbird allows you to see all your emails in one spot. This makes it easier to organize and manage them.

By knowing why this task is important, users can easily switch to Thunderbird and use its features without losing their email history.

Methods of Importing EML Files into Thunderbird Mail

In the upcoming section, we will describe the different solutions for importing EML files to Thunderbird. Whether you have just a few emails or a large amount, following the given methods will help you transfer everything smoothly and securely. Let’s navigate to the next section and pick the method that best suits your requirements. 

#Method 01: Manually Dragging And Dropping EML Files Into Thunderbird

Using the drag-and-drop method is a manual way to import EML files into Thunderbird. However, there is a chance of missing your important data without technical expertise. So perform it carefully. 

• Launch the Thunderbird email client on your computer.
• Go to the folder where you want to import the EML files.
• After that, click and hold the EML files you want to import.
• Drag the EML files from your file explorer and drop them into the Thunderbird window.

Note: Make sure the EML files are not open in another program when you drag them into Thunderbird.

#Method 02: Using ImportExportTools NG to Import EML to Thunderbird

Here, we will explain how to use the ImportExportTools NG add-on to import EML files into Thunderbird:

• First of all, open Thunderbird.
• Click on the menu button (three horizontal lines) in the top right corner.
• Select Add-ons and Themes.
• In the search bar, type ImportExportTools NG and press Enter.
• Click Add to Thunderbird next to the add-on and follow the prompts to install it. Restart Thunderbird if prompted.
• Make sure you have your EML files ready and know the location where they are saved on your computer.
• In Thunderbird, navigate to the folder where you want to import the EML files (like your Inbox or a specific folder).
• Right-click on the folder where you want to import the EML files.
• From the context menu, hover over ImportExportTools NG.
• Click on Import messages.
• Select EML files from the options that appear.
• Click Open or OK to start the import process. The selected EML files will be imported into the folder you chose.

After the import is complete, check the folder to see your imported emails. They should appear alongside any existing emails. If you have many EML files, it may take some time for them to import. 

Common Problems With the Manual Import Process

However, the manual method is free, but the user generally gets many interruptions during the process: 

• The individual needs a great level of technical expertise to perform the task. 
• If they a bit of step, it can directly lead to the essential data loss.
• Along with that, the manual method can take a long time to simplify the process.
• It is not suitable at all for the large scale of data.

To skip the limitations of the manual import process, users frequently navigate to the automated solution. Further, we will define the all-in-one best solution to simplify the import process with ease.

#Method 03: Alternative Solution to Directly Import EML to Thunderbird Account

The DRS EML Converter is a simple and risk-free solution to import EML files to Thunderbird. This software supports batch conversion and allows users to import multiple EML files at once. Before importing, users can preview the emails, including attachments, to ensure they pick the correct files. Moreover, it maintains the original formatting, structure, and metadata of the emails. It generally supports various email clients that save messages in EML format, such as Windows Live Mail, Mozilla Thunderbird, and more. It is designed with easy to use, even for those who may not be tech-savvy. Along with that, it is compatible with all major and earlier versions of Windows OS.

Simple Steps to Move EML (.eml) Files to Thunderbird Mail

• Firstly, install and run the EML Converter on your screen. 
• Mark Single File/Multiple File and click Next to proceed.
• Now, click Select File(s) to add the desired EML files >> Open.
• Here, you can preview the selected data of the EML file >> Next.
• Pick Thunderbird as an email client and perform the login process of it.
• Opt for the built feature and click the Convert Button to begin the process.

Additionally, this software allows users to convert EML files to various formats such as PST, MSG, MBOX, PDF, and more. This is useful for users who need to switch email clients or archive their emails in different formats.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, importing EML files into Thunderbird is a simple process that can improve how you manage your emails. By following the steps provided, you can easily add your important emails to your Thunderbird account without losing any data or security. Always remember to back up your current emails before importing, just in case something goes wrong. With Thunderbird’s useful features and the easy integration of EML files, you can keep your emails organized and work more efficiently.

Related Post: Open EML File on Mac.

About The Author:

Pradeep Kumar

Pradeep is an expert with over 2 years of experience in email migration, email recovery, and file conversion. He has a passion for helping users by sharing easy-to-understand solutions for common technical challenges across different platforms. Known for breaking down complex tech topics into simple, enjoyable content, Pradeep's work has earned recognition in several well-known tech blogs. His straightforward approach and reliable guidance have made him a trusted source for both tech enthusiasts and beginners looking to resolve their technical issues.