Ultimate Guide to Import PST file to IMAP Account

Written By Shivam Rathore
Updated on May 10th, 2025

Summary: PSTs are a great source of accessing Outlook data but are platform-dependent. So, to prevent this limitation from disrupting workflow data access from other platforms, import PST files to the IMAP account. An IMAP account holds connectivity to several web-based email clients like Gmail, Yahoo, Office 365, Zoho, and many more. In this blog, learn all the feasible solutions and an EasyTechTools PST Migration Tool to complete the import in no time with accurate results.

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Why Import from PST File to IMAP Server?

IMAP server, short for Internet Message Access Protocol server, acts as a storage medium for data transmission between two clients. It has several benefits that encourage users to import the PST files to the IMAP mailbox. These are:

Global email platforms’ accessibility
Large cloud storage space
Helps in smooth migration
Maintain a streamlined data backup
Offers flexibility for effective management
Secures data from unforeseen situations
Free up the local storage and access data anywhere

With so many advantages of IMAP over Outlook email, any user would like to save PST to IMAP. Get to know how you can perform the conversion by going through the manual and automated solutions given below. The upcoming section briefly states the step-by-step procedure and other details.

No-Cost Technique to Import PST File to IMAP Account

Simply follow the steps mentioned below in your Microsoft Outlook to move the data without much hassle. The steps are:

In Outlook, from File, get the Info tab and in the Add Account option, click to open it.
Next, in the account setup dialog, enter the credentials of the IMAP account.
Then, choose to set up the account manually by setting the server data.
Click Done to completely configure the IMAP and Outlook accounts together.
Further, go to Open & Export in the File section of MS Outlook.
Afterward, open Import/Export >> pick Import from another program/file.
Click Next, and with the .pst file option, proceed to convert PST to IMAP. Again, Next.
Now, Browse.. PST that you wish to transfer and handle duplicates > Next.
Later, select the particular folder to import and set the destination to the IMAP folder.
Finally, click on the button stating Finish to import PST to IMAP for free.

Drawbacks:

Users with no or less technical knowledge will be confused or find the steps difficult.
It is not possible to import many folders at the same time into the IMAP mailbox.
The file structure and data may be affected to some extent and can result in losses.

Import PST File to IMAP Account Using Proficient Software

The PST Migration Tool is an ideal way to bulk transfer PSTs to any email account with an IMAP connection. It does the work in less time with simple clicks, and no losses or missing data files occur. Additionally, the tool doesn’t need the MS Outlook application for the transfer and supports PSTs for all Outlook. Moreover, any user can import PST to IMAP trouble-free on Windows/Mac systems without worrying about file size. Besides that, the tool also lets you convert PST file to vCard and many more formats and save them at your desired location.

Let’s find out how this tool functions and enables us to perform a risk-free and hassle-free conversion. Also, know that the tool has a free version with which you can save up to 50 emails per folder.

Working to Convert PST to IMAP

Launch the PST File Migration Tool and tap on a desired radio alternative. Hit Next.
Then, press Select Files and navigate for the PST data needed to upload. Click Next.
Select the folders from the tree to convert PST and then press the Next button.
Afterward, click on the drop arrow to look for all the available email client options and choose IMAP.
Further, also select the filters as per your requirements for customization.
At last, click on the Convert button from the tool’s interface to end the conversion.

Conclusion

To summarize, there are various reasons, as stated above, why users import PST file to IMAP accounts. There are two ways given, either a free solution or a professional tool, both of which provide the conversion. Depending on your needs, choose the method and start transferring your files with accuracy. If you are worried about the cost, go for the trial version of the software first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1 How to convert PST to IMAP?

Ans. The process is quick and reliable with the PST File Converter Software. Its steps are:
1. Download the software and begin it as an administrator on Windows.
2. Following that, include the required files and folders in PST format for conversion.
3. Click Next Preview, and check the attachments. Select needed or all and hit Next.
4. Finally, pick IMAP as the saving location and hit Convert to move the data.

Q.2 Does the software allow bulk add PST files to the IMAP account at once?

Ans. Yes, the software allows import from PST file to IMAP simultaneously at once with no restrictions. Add any number of files of your choice and add them to your IMAP account with ease.

About The Author:

Shivam Rathore

Meet Shivam, an experienced SEO executive and content strategist. He combines creativity with strategy to craft engaging content that connects with audiences and supports brand goals. With strong expertise in digital marketing and content planning, Shivam helps businesses thrive online.