How to Import PST Files to New Outlook Version: DIY Guide

A user migrating from Outlook 2016 to the New Outlook version on a new computer needs to transfer their data. The data, such as emails, calendars, and contacts that were saved in a PST file, needs to be transferred to the old setup. To retrieve the old data, they decided to import PST files to New Outlook. But, how will they make this happen? There are both manual ways and an automated PST Migrator Tool that imports the PST Files to various email clients. This will retain their full email history, important appointments, etc. Continue to read the full blog and learn various methods, both manual and automated, to make this conversion process successful.

A PST (Personal Storage Table) is an Outlook data file that stores Outlook email content locally on a user’s device. Microsoft Outlook is a desktop-based email app that is Microsoft’s personal information manager. It helps users to manage and organize emails all at one place. 

Reasons to Import Old PST Files to New Outlook

Migrating PST Files to a New Outlook improves access and flexibility across platforms. The following points outline the key advantages of making this switch:

• Importing old PST files to New Outlook preserves access to past emails, important contact lists, and restores tasks and notes.
• The older versions of Outlook store all users’ data in PST files that haven’t been synced to any cloud services. Hence, importing the PST file is crucial.
• When a system crash occurs, importing these PST file backups will ensure that no important data is lost. 
• Importing PST files provides access to old communications, making them easily found and viewed within the new Outlook. 
• Instead of recreating folders, calendars, and contacts manually, importing a PST automatically restores the original structure. 

Top Ways to Import PST files to New Outlook

The migration of PST files can be done manually or by utilizing a conversion tool. Although manual migration is possible, but involves complex and technical steps. On the other hand, using an automated conversion tool makes everything faster and much simpler. Let’s explore both methods to see how they work.

Manual Method to Import Classic Outlook PST to New Outlook

This method is useful when you are upgrading Outlook and want to restore the old data saved in a PST file. 

Use this step-by-step instruction to begin the process:

Step 01: Browse your old PST File 

1. For Outlook 2019/2016/2016, go to: C:\Users\[Your Username]\Documents\Outlook Files
2. For Outlook’s older versions, go to: C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook

Step 02: Import the PST File to New Outlook

1. Open Outlook and click File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
2. Choose Import from another program or file, and then click Next.
3. Select Outlook Data File (.pst) and click Next to continue.
4. Locate and select your PST file. Click Next.
5. Choose the import location where you want the data to be imported.
6. Check the Include subfolders and click on the Finish button.

Limitations: This method is not suitable for bulk imports. Importing large PST files may slow down the performance of Outlook. Also, this does not preserves the folder hierarchy.

Dedicated Tool to Import PST to New Outlook

The PST Converter Tool provides a versatile platform for importing PST files to New Outlook. It also offers support for multiple email clients and various file formats. The tool allows users to bulk import, apply filters, and remove duplicates, simplifying the overall process. The built-in preview function lets users preview the data before converting. 

Below are the steps to convert PST file to New Outlook:

1. Download and install the Converter tool and open it.
2. Go to Single File and click Next to continue.
3. Use Select Files to select and open your PST File. Then, click Next to continue.
4. Pick the desired folders or emails that you want to convert and click Next.
5. Enter Office 365 account credentials to authenticate and click on the Sign In button.
6. Click Convert to move PST files to new Outlook. 

Conclusion

Switching from PST to New Outlook gives users access to legacy emails and supports email client migration. This blog compares two approaches: one is a slow, complex manual process, and the other uses an automated PST Converter Tool. The tool ensures fast and error-free conversion to import PST to new Outlook. Moreover, it supports conversion to various file formats and email clients.

Related Guide: Open PST File On Mac With Outlook.

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