Summary: This tutorial will help users import eM client to Thunderbird with the help of manual methods. Also, discuss the challenges which come with the migration process. Further, use our professional solution to tackle those problems and ensure smooth email transfer.
Table of Contents Hide
  1. Why to Migrate eM Client Data?
  2. How to Import eM Client to Thunderbird? Manual Steps
  3. Export Data to EML Format
  4. Add Email Account to Thunderbird
  5. Use Automated Solution for Bulk Imports
  6. Software Steps to Import MBOX File into Thunderbird
  7. Conclusion

Reasons to Migrate eM Client to Thunderbird

There could be various aspects why users tend to import eM client to Thunderbird. Let’s fill that informational gap and know the real reason to export:
  • Thunderbird is known as a free and open-source email-client which means that users can use on their own way
  • It has no account limitations or licensing restrictions when it comes to personal use, unlike eM client
  • They have many extensions that help you to be more productive, and manage email more effectively
  • Your data is well secured and you can easily import your private information
  • Thunderbird is a very popular email client with a huge user base and best for official work
  • Compatible with all major operating systems and allows users to work freely on any environment
Points to Note Before Exporting eM Client Data Things to keep in mind before you start the migration process.
  • Firstly, take back up of your current eM client data
  • Check mail folders and number of emails stored in the mailbox
  • Make sure Thunderbird is already installed
  • Always see the available disk space
  • Close other background apps
  • Read attachments and folder structure
Following these important precautions will avoid data loss and process failure.

Also Read: How to Import Old Profile in Thunderbird – Get Reliable Solution

How to Import Mail from eM Client to Thunderbird Manually?

You will be seeing two manual methods to migrate eM client to Thunderbird. Let’s start one by one:

#1. Export eM Client Data as EML – 3 Step Process

The most popular method to import eM client to Thunderbird. It is divided into three steps. Follow them one by one: Step 1. First, Export Emails from eM Client
  • Start by opening your eM client
  • Select the folder which has emails inside it
  • From that, choose any particular email you want
  • Take your cursor over there and tap on Export option
  • Select EML as your desired format
  • Give a destination path to your folder
  • Now, follow the give steps to complete the export process
Step 2. Install Thunderbird ImportExportTools NG Add-ons There is no direct option to import your EML files. For that, you need to install ImportExportTools NG Add-on for thunderbird. 1. Firstly, open Thunderbird in your system. 2. Head over to Tools > Add-ons and Themes. go to add-ons & themes in thunderbird 3. Find ImportExportTools NG from the search field and click + Add to Thunderbird. click on +add to thunderbird button 4. You will see the Add button. click on add button 5. Finally restart Thunderbird to enable the add-on effect. Step 3. Now, Import EML Files Into Thunderbird
  • The first step is to open Thunderbird and create a new folder
  • Next, right-click on that folder
  • Choose ImportExportTools NG
  • Select Import All Messages From A Directory option
  • Load exported EML files
  • Now, simply complete the process to import eM client to Thunderbird
Limitations:
  • It is very lengthy task to finish
  • You can only import single folder at a time
  • Need to maintain the original structure on your own
  • Chances of data loss while migrating large emails

Also Read: How to Migrate Evolution to Thunderbird? Complete Overview

#2. Add the Same Email Account to Thunderbird

You have the option to sync emails directly, if they are on the IMAP mail server.
  1. View your Thunderbird
  2. Watch for Add Mail Account and click on it
  3. Use the same email account which you have used for eM client
  4. Configure it by selecting the option IMAP
  5. Follow the account setup steps
  6. Wait for some time to sync your mailbox
It’s done, now you can import eM client to Thunderbird easily. Advantages: There is no need to export any file Emails are downloaded automatically Disadvantages:
  • You can only export only server-based emails
  • Local folders are not migrated
  • You should avoid notes, archives, or custom folders
  • If you have large mailboxes, synchronization process may take time
Difficulty Users Face During eM Client to Thunderbird Process Consider these points which common people faces daily when
  • The source folders will not be in the same order after import
  • Incomplete exports can affect your attachments
  • Users may get multiple duplicate emails
  • When it comes to millions of emails, then manual methods are not suitable
  • You need to install add-ons and need extra effort
Due to these challenges, most of the users search for an automated solution.

Import eM Client to Thunderbird Using Professional Solution

It is difficult to deal with large numbers of emails and folders, especially when you are using manual methods. Additionally, the users encounter various problems such as one by one mail import, not maintaining the folder structure, and giving duplicate emails. This process may take time and you need to install extra add-ons too. So, go with SysTools Thunderbird Importer to easily load your MBOX files into Thunderbird with easy steps.

Follow Easy Steps to Use our Software to Export eM Client Data

The tool has very simple steps to import eM client to Thunderbird. 1. The first thing you need to do is download & open the software in your system. Add MBOX file 2. Then, click on Add File(s)/Folder and choose the MBOX file to import. file1 3. The software will show you every profile of your Thunderbird. 4. Select a profile to import MBOX/MBX file from the Identities dropdown list. folder7 Note: Make sure that Thunderbird is set up with an email account or local profile. If not, then a message will tell you to set it. 5. If you want to keep the folder structure of the imported files, select Maintain Folder Hierarchy. folder8 6. Press Import to get started. folder8 7. Your imported files will be in your Thunderbird profile. thunderbird data Note: You cannot import into an IMAP account. For that, choose POP account or Local Folder.

Final Note

It is very important to import eM client to Thunderbird, if users want to shift to an email management platform that is flexible and free. Let’s make it simple, if you have small emails to import, you can use manual ways given above. If you are searching for a secure and effective method without any limitations, then use our automated solution. You can migrate bulk MBOX data into Thunderbird.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I import eM Client emails to Thunderbird manually?

Export the emails from eM Client in EML format and install ImportExportTools NG in Thunderbird. Create a new folder, right click it, choose ImportExportTools NG and select Import All Messages From A Directory. Load the exported EML files.

Can I add the same email account to Thunderbird instead?

Yes, if the emails sit on an IMAP mail server. Add the same account in Thunderbird, choose IMAP and wait for the mailbox to sync. Local folders do not migrate with this method.

What problems come with the manual eM Client to Thunderbird methods?

Folders do not keep the same order after import and you can import only one folder at a time. Incomplete exports can affect attachments and create duplicate emails. The ImportExportTools NG setup also needs extra effort.

Which tool imports MBOX files into Thunderbird?

SysTools Thunderbird Importer loads MBOX files into a Thunderbird profile in bulk. Select Maintain Folder Hierarchy to keep the folder structure. You cannot import into an IMAP account, so choose a POP account or Local Folder.