How to Quickly Convert EML to MBOX Files in 7 Clicks

During audits and investigations, it is common to receive email data stored in EML file format. But, manually going through them individually is impractical. Instead of reviewing each EML file containing a single email, they can convert EML to MBOX for easy examination. Through the MBOX file, they can examine multiple email messages in a single file. So, what are the ways by which one can convert their EML files to MBOX? There are the manual and an automated EML Converter Tool for this conversion. This blog will walk you through the process and help you choose the right method as per your need. 

An EML (Electronic Mail Format) is a file that stores a single email message per file. An MBOX is a file format used to store multiple email messages in a single plain text file.

Why Convert EML Files to MBOX?

Converting EML files to MBOX is essential for better accessibility and compatibility. It benefits both individuals and businesses. Here’s why this conversion is useful: 

• MBOX files are easier to manage as they store a collection of emails. While an EML file stores a single email per file.
• Many email clients support the MBOX file format. Therefore, by converting an EML file to MBOX, it is easy to export the file to email clients for viewing and reviewing.
• In legal matters, the team prefers MBOX files over EML files. Handling thousands of EML files is impractical compared to handling a single MBOX file.
• It is inefficient to archive thousands of EML files. Therefore, converting it to MBOX provides an easy way to retrieve the emails.

How to Convert EML to MBOX?

This conversion can be done in three ways. Two of them require manual steps, which can be time-consuming and error-prone. The most efficient solution, however, is using trusted and automated software that prevents errors and ensures speed and accuracy.

Convert EML to MBOX File with Attachments Using Thunderbird

Make sure that Thunderbird is installed on your computer. Also, the imported MBOX file will not have an extension, but it is an MBOX file. This method preserves attachments and formatting.

Use the given steps below to convert .eml files to MBOX files:

1. Open Mozilla Thunderbird.
2. Click on Menu > Add-ons and Themes > ImportExportTools NG > Add to Thunderbird and install it.
3. Now, go to Local Folders, right-click on it, and create a New Folder.
4. Right-click on the New Folder > ImportExportTools NG > Import all messages from a directory > also from its sub-directories.
5. Then, select your .eml files’ folder. All the emails are now imported to Thunderbird.
6. Right-click on this folder > ImportExportTools NG > Export Folder.
7. Choose a destination path and Save it.

Limitations: If the user skips any of the steps, there can be a risk of data loss. This method is not ideal for bulk conversion as it can take a lot of time. 

Convert EML Files to MBOX Using Apple Mail (for macOS users only)

This is an easy to use drag and drop method that requires no third-party tool. It also preserves formatting and attachments.

Given below are the simple steps to convert EML TO mbox:

1. Open Apple Mail.
2. Go to On My Mac > Right-click on the Mail sidebar and choose New Mailbox.
3. Now, locate and select your .eml files.
4. Drag the .eml files and paste them into the newly created mailbox.
5. Right-click on that folder > Export Mailbox.
6. Choose the destination folder and save the export.

Limitations: It does alter some metadata sometimes. There is no option for bulk imports, and therefore, it requires time and effort.

To save time and effort, read ahead about automated software that quickly and accurately does this conversion. 

An Automated Tool to Convert EML to MBOX Files

The EML to MBOX Converter is a powerful and versatile software to manage complex email migrations. It converts EML files into multiple formats like EMLX, PST, PDF, etc. This tool supports email migrations to various email clients as well.  Moreover, it includes features like saving attachments separately, bulk processing, and keeping the folder structure intact. It is compatible with Windows OS and macOS.

Use this step-by-step approach to convert EML files to MBOX:

1. Download and install the software. 
2. Choose between Single File/Multiple Files and Select Folder to add the EML file.
3. Now, select the EML files from the tree hierarchical structure, preview them, and click on Next.
4. Choose File Formats and pick MBOX as the saving format.
5. Choose any additional features if needed.
6. Click on Path to Save to choose the location to save your file.
7. Finally, click on Convert to begin the process.

Conclusion

EML to MBOX conversion is crucial for compatibility and preserving email data. This article has covered both manual methods and automated software. The manual conversion involves multiple technical steps and can be prone to errors. Using professional automated software, EML to MBOX Converter will deliver fast, accurate, error-free, and hassle-free conversion. The advanced features of this tool make it suitable for both individuals and businesses to convert EML to MBOX. 

Useful Article: Convert EML Files to PST Format.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q- What is the difference between EML and MBOX format?

Ans- The major difference between the two is that the EML file contains a single email message. Whereas the MBOX file is a collection of multiple emails. EML is best when handling individual emails, and MBOX is best when handling emails in bulk.

Q- Can EML files be opened in Gmail?

Ans- No, we cannot open EML files in Gmail directly. There are multiple ways to access them in Gmail:

• Drag and drop the .eml file as an attachment while composing a Gmail message.
• Import the EML file to Gmail using Thunderbird.