Outlook Emails Stuck in Outbox? Try These Fast Fixes
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Written By
Aaradhya Jain -
Approved By
Shivam Rathore -
Updated on
December 13th, 2025 - Read Time
3 minutes
User Query: My Outlook emails stuck in Outbox and refuse to send. I have an urgent client message, but Outlook keeps showing ‘Pending’ or ‘Send/Receive error’. Why is this happening, and how can I fix it quickly?
Introduction: Sending an urgent email and seeing it stuck in the Outbox can be very annoying, especially when Outlook shows no clear error. This issue is more common and usually happens because of small things like a weak internet connection, a heavy attachment, or Outlook not syncing properly. In this guide, you’ll learn the main reasons Outlook keeps your emails in the Outbox and the best ways to fix this error. Also, you can directly use the DRS PST Repair Tool to fix a corrupted/damaged PST file without any data loss.
Why do Outlook Emails get stuck in the Outbox? (Top Causes)
Here are the most common reasons behind this error:
- Weak or unstable internet connection.
- Large attachments exceeding Outlook’s sending limit.
- Outlook is set to Work Offline.
- Corrupted Outlook profile.
- Add-ins are blocking the sending process.
- Damaged PST/OST data file.
- Also, antivirus or firewall interruption.
Quick Methods to Fix Emails Stuck in Outbox in Outlook
If your Outlook messages stay in Outbox when sending, you can fix the issue with a few quick checks and settings. Below are the fastest and most effective methods that work for both Windows and Mac users.
Fix 1: Check Internet Connection
A poor connection is the most common reason.
- Restarting the Wi-Fi.
- Switching to a mobile hotspot.
- Running Send/Receive again.
Fix 2: Disable Work Offline Mode
Outlook may be stuck offline. Steps to follow;
- Firstly, open Outlook
- Now, go to the Send/Receive tab
- Then, click Work Offline to turn it OFF
- If the icon is not highlighted anymore, Outlook is back online.
Fix 3: Reduce Large Attachments to Fix Outlook Emails Stuck in Outbox Error
Outlook cannot send emails with large files. To fix:
- Primarily, open the Outbox.
- Double-click the stuck email.
- Remove heavy attachments.
- Reattach a compressed ZIP file instead.
- In the end, hit Send again.
Fix 4: Restart Outlook in Safe Mode
Faulty add-ins can block your outgoing emails. Steps:
- Press Windows + R
- Type outlook.exe /safe
- Hit Enter
- If the email sends successfully, disable unnecessary add-ins.
Fix 5: Clear and Rebuild the Outlook Profile
Sometimes the profile itself gets corrupted. Steps:
- Open Control Panel.
- Go to Mail (Microsoft Outlook).
- Click Show Profiles.
- Create a New Profile.
- Set it as the default.
Fix 6: Effective Method to Fix Corrupted/Damaged Outlook PST Files
If your PST file is damaged, oversized, or inaccessible, a professional tool gives a more stable repair. The DRS PST Repair Tool repairs corrupted PST files without losing emails, attachments, contacts, folders, or formatting. This tool also helps to fix Outlook error 0x80040116 and more. Designed with a simple interface, every user can easily use it without needing any technical skills. Additionally, a free version of this tool is available to evaluate its features and performance.
One-Time Outlook PST Repair Service
If you do not want to install any software, DRS also offers a one-time PST repair service. You simply share the required login or file access details securely, and the support team repairs your PST file for you. This is helpful for users who prefer quick professional help without dealing with technical steps.
Simple Steps to Fix Outlook Emails Stuck in Outbox Error
- Download and install the DRS Outlook PST Repair Tool.
- Click on Open to add your corrupted PST file.
- Choose the Recovery Modes and other options. Click OK.
- After that, preview and select the recovered email to save.
- Lastly, click Save to download all the recovered PST files.
Real-Life Scenario
Riya was trying to send a contract document to a client, but Outlook kept the email stuck in the Outbox for hours. She tried resending it multiple times, but nothing worked. After checking her connection and attachments, she realized her PST file had become too large and partially corrupted. She used the DRS PST Repair Tool, which fixed her PST file within minutes, and Outlook immediately sent the pending email.
Conclusion
Outlook emails stuck in Outbox are a common but fixable issue. Small things like a weak connection, a heavy attachment, or offline mode can cause delays. However, if the problem continues, it may indicate PST corruption. Using a reliable tool like the DRS PST Repair Tool helps repair damaged PST files, reduce errors, and restore smooth sending. A free demo version is available so you can test its features before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: Weak internet, large attachments, Outlook in Work Offline mode, corrupted PST/OST files, faulty add-ins, or server sync issues.
Ans: Yes. If the PST file is damaged, Outlook may fail to send messages. A PST repair tool can fix corruption and restore proper email flow.
Ans: Yes, the DRS PST Splitter or Compressor Tool helps reduce PST size, preventing freezing and sending issues.
Ans: For security, use an offline desktop-based tool like the DRS PST Repair Tool, which keeps all data stored locally.
About The Author:
I, Aaradhya Jain, a technical content writer at DRS Solutions, specializes in delivering clear, practical guides on data management, migration, and recovery tools. With a detail-oriented and user-first approach mindset, I transform complex processes into actionable insights for IT professionals and decision-makers.
