How to import Outlook items from a .pst file in Outlook(classic) for PC?

    1. Open the Import Tool

      • At the top of your Outlook ribbon, select File.
      • If your ribbon doesn't have a File option in the top left corner, you aren't using an Outlook app installed on your computer.


    2. Launch the Import/Export Wizard

      • Select Open & Export > Import/Export.


    3. Select the Import Option

      • Choose Import from another program or file, then select Next.


    4. Choose the File Type

      • Select Outlook Data File (.pst) and click Next.

    5. Locate and Configure the .PST File

      • Browse to the .pst file you want to import.
      • Under Options, choose how you want to handle duplicate emails and contacts, then select Next.


    6. Enter the Password (If Applicable)

      • If a password was assigned to the Outlook Data File (.pst), enter the password and select OK.

    7. Select Import Destination

      • If importing into your Microsoft 365 mailbox, select that mailbox.
      • If not importing into Microsoft 365, choose Import items into the current folder (this imports data into the currently selected folder).


    8. Complete the Import Process

      • Click Finish. Outlook will begin importing the contents of your .pst file immediately.
      • When the progress box disappears, the import is complete.
      • If importing into a Microsoft 365 mailbox, Outlook may display a message about reconnecting to Microsoft 365 if the internet connection is briefly interrupted. The import will resume once the connection is restored.

    Additional Information About .PST Files

    • Attachments are included: Outlook exports emails along with their attachments, so imported emails will retain their attachments.
    • Meta-data is NOT exported/imported: Folder properties (views, permissions, AutoArchive settings), message rules, and blocked sender lists are not included in the import.
    • No data is deleted during export/import: Outlook makes a copy of emails, contacts, and calendar items in the .pst file. Your original Outlook data remains intact.
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