In the realm of email management, dealing with multiple MSG (Message) files scattered across your system can be a daunting task. However, merging and combining these MSG files into a single PST (Personal Storage Table) file can be a solution.
Since Microsoft PST files are widely used in Microsoft Outlook to store emails, contacts, calendars, and other data, it is beneficial to merge MSG files into PST file format. In this guide, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of merging MSG files into a consolidated PST file.
Why Merge MSG Files into PST?
There are many reasons why you might need to merge multiple .msg files into one PST file. Let us have a look at them to understand the alternatives as well as the benefits of combining the files.
Organization and Accessibility: Combining MSG files into a PST file helps streamline your email data, making it easier to organize and manage. This consolidation ensures that your emails are easily accessible within a single file.
Backup and Archiving: PST files are convenient for creating backups and archives. By merging MSG files into a PST, you can create a comprehensive backup of your emails which reduces the risk of data loss.
Efficient Data Management: Instead of handling numerous MSG files separately, combining them into a PST file simplifies data management. That is especially useful when migrating MSG files into Outlook.
Data Migration: If you are planning to switch to other platforms like Thunderbird or Apple Mail; then also merging MSG files will make it convenient. You can easily convert MSG files to MBOX format to open them in Thunderbird or other accounts.
How to Combine Multiple MSG Files into One PST File?
The method to combine MSG files involves two ways. Either you can do it using MS Outlook or you need to opt for a third-party tool if you do not have MS Outlook in your machine. Now, let’s delve into the step-by-step process of merging MSG files into a PST file:
Step 1: Use Outlook to Open MSG Files
- Open Microsoft Outlook on your computer.
- Navigate to the “File” tab and select “Open & Export” > “Open Outlook Data File.”
Step 2: Create a New PST File
- Click on “New Outlook Data File.”
- Choose “Office Outlook Personal Folders File (.pst)” and click “OK.”
- Select a location to save the new PST file and provide a name for it. Click “OK.”
Step 3: Import MSG Files into the New PST
- In Outlook, go to the “File” tab and select “Open & Export” > “Import/Export.”
- Choose “Import from another program or file” and click “Next.”
- Select “Outlook Data File (.pst)” and click “Next.”
- Browse and select the newly created PST file.
- Choose the option to either allow or not allow duplicate items. Click “Next.”
Step 4: Select MSG Files for Import
- Click “Browse” and navigate to the folder containing your MSG files.
- Select the MSG files you want to merge into the PST file.
- Choose the desired options for handling duplicates and click “Next.”
Step 5: Complete the Import Process
- Click “Finish” to start the import process.
- Depending on the number and size of MSG files; this process may take some time.
- Once completed, you’ll find the imported MSG files within the new PST file in Outlook.
Although this process is easy, it is not failproof. You might face several challenges and require technical expertise to carry out the process smoothly. Also, you need MS Outlook installed and configured on your PC.
How to Merge MSG Files without MS Outlook?
This process is quite complicated if you try to do it manually. This is because .msg files can only be opened in MS Outlook, and if you don’t have it, then combining MSG won’t be that easy. Either open it via Outlook or convert MSG to EML to open it in a browser or notepad.
However, if you want to merge MSG files into one PST file without MS Outlook, then opt for Magus MSG to PST converter. It is an all-in-one tool that can convert multiple MSG files into one PST file keeping the folder structure and other meta properties intact. Also, it can let you convert MSG to EML, MBOX, EMLX, and HTML.
Conclusion:
Merging MSG files into a PST file offers a practical solution for efficient email management. By following these steps, you can consolidate your email data, making it easier to organize, access, and safeguard. This process is particularly valuable for those looking to streamline their email workflow or migrate data seamlessly. Embrace the power of merging and enhance your email management experience with this comprehensive guide.
