Simplest Method to Import MBOX to Zoho Mail in 2025

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  • Updated on
    October 27th, 2025
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    5 minutes
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Summary: When a mail client malfunctions, it causes loss of vital email messages. In such situations, users rely on the backed-up MBOX files. It is the best option to import MBOX to Zoho Mail to restore lost emails. The question arises: how to import the MBOX files into the Zoho Mail email client? For this, read the blog where we have outlined details in a sequential manner. We have provided both free and automated enterprise-level options using the MBOX Converter Tool. It guarantees zero data loss and error-free results. Try downloading the demo version to find out about its full benefits. 

Reasons to Transfer MBOX Files to Zoho Mail

There are various common reasons to import MBOX files to the Zoho Mail email client. Look at the ones explained below:

  • MBOX backups are helpful during a system failure. Users can restore the emails by importing MBOX files in Zoho Mail.
  • Businesses moving from Gmail to Zoho Mail need to import their Gmail data as an MBOX file into the Zoho Mail platform.
  • Users upgrade from local email clients to a cloud-based Zoho Mail email client to retain old email conversations.
  • If an email service is discontinued, users can store their mailbox as an MBOX backup and import it into Zoho Mail.
  • Also, several accounts can merge emails into an MBOX file and then import it into a single Zoho Mail mailbox.

Free Methods to Import MBOX to Zoho Mail 

Now, after understanding the reasons to import MBOX files in Zoho Mail, let’s continue further. In this section, we will explore various methods to import MBOX files to Zoho Mail. Let’s start.

Open MBOX Files in Zoho Mail Using Thunderbird

Mozilla Thunderbird can read the MBOX file format and connect to Zoho Mail email client via IMAP protocol. First, you need to import the MBOX file data into Thunderbird. Then, sync it to your Zoho email account.

Follow the step-by-step instructions to start the process:

Step 01: Add Zoho Mail account to Thunderbird

  1. Open the Mozilla Thunderbird application.
  2. Then, navigate to Email > Add Mail Account.
  3. Now, type in your Zoho email address and password. Choose IMAP configuration:


Incoming Mail Server (IMAP)
Server: imap.zoho.com
Port: 993
Encryption: SSL/TLS


Outgoing Mail Server (SMTP)
Server: smtp.zoho.com
Port: 465 or 587
Encryption: SSL/TLS
  1. Afterward, click on the menu icon > Add-ons and Themes > type and install ImportExportTools NG.
  2. Restart Thunderbird.

Step 02: Import MBOX File to Zoho Mail 

  1. In Thunderbird, right-click on Local Folders and choose ImportExportTools NG.
  2. After that, select Import MBOX file > Import directly one or more MBOX files > Ok.
  3. Now, select the MBOX file that you wish to import and choose the emails or folders.
  4. Drag-and-drop the selected emails into the Zoho Mail account folder.

Limitations: This manual procedure requires technical know-how and is a bit lengthy. Therefore, it is not suitable for non-technical users. While importing large MBOX files, it can cause data loss or incomplete transfer.

Simple & Effective Professional Method to Import MBOX to Zoho Mail

The automated MBOX Converter Tool will simply bypass the issues caused by manual methods. This secure tool imports multiple MBOX files to Zoho Mail in a few minutes. Moreover, it makes sure that no data is lost during the entire process. In addition to this, it provides accurate results quickly while maintaining the folder hierarchy. This converter tool directly imports the MBOX files into various email services like Import MBOX File to Gmail, Office 365, Yandex, GoDaddy, etc., and file formats like PST, MBOX, PDF, CSV, etc. 

Quick and simple steps to transfer MBOX files to Zoho Mail:

  1. Start by launching the software on your system.
  2. Click on the Continue button to start.
  3. Then, choose the Add File option, locate the MBOX file, and Open it.
  4. Once it is added, expand the folders to select the desired folder to import.
  5. Select the folders and preview their content. Then, click Next.
  6. Afterward, choose the output Email Client as Zoho Mail.
  7. Authenticate with the Zoho Mail account credentials and apply the filters.
  8. Lastly, hit the Convert button.

Conclusion

The MBOX to Zoho Mail import process is beneficial when users want to restore emails if a system crash. Both the automated and manual methods help to import MBOX into Zoho Mail. The only difference is that, automated MBOX Converter Tool imports the MBOX files without any data loss. Whereas manual methods do not guarantee data integrity and accuracy. Users can choose the method that is most suitable according to their technical expertise and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q- Does Zoho Mail support direct MBOX file import?

Ans- No, Zoho Mail does not natively import MBOX files directly. You first need to configure Zoho Mail in a compatible email client, like Thunderbird. And then import the MBOX into that client to sync it with your Zoho account.

Q- What happens if my MBOX file is too large for import?

Ans- Zoho Mail has limits for IMAP uploads and attachment sizes. If the MBOX file is too large, it’s recommended to split it into smaller parts or use a tool that can handle large MBOX files efficiently.

About The Author

Rohit Singh is an Email Backup, Recovery, and Migration Expert with over 6 years of experience in the software industry. He specializes in data migration solutions for Microsoft Outlook, Office 365, Google Workspace, and other popular email clients. Rohit regularly shares practical insights and technical guides to help users simplify complex email management tasks.

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