When a fast-growing startup decided to move its communication system to Microsoft 365, everything seemed like a step in the right direction, such as better collaboration, cloud-based access, and overall improved security. But thousands of MSG files containing client discussions, approval invoice and so what not is stored in system storage (offline).
The first question that came to mind was, How do we import MSG files to Microsoft 365 mailboxes effectively, with no metadata or hierarchy loss?
If you’re also going through the same and have such questions in your mind, you don’t need to worry anymore. With us, go through a reliable set of methods along with their step-by-step process.
What is MSG file, and Why Business Import MSG Files to Microsoft 365
The MSG file is a single email saved from Microsoft Outlook to local storage. It contains email content, sender & receiver details, attachments, formatting, and metadata.
In organizations and businesses, MSG files are also important that is why the user imports them to Microsoft 365 mailboxes. A few reasons are as follows:
- To restore historical or old data.
- For legal as well as compliance needs.
- Centralization of communication records.
Import MSG files to Microsoft 365 via Microsoft Outlook
As you already know, professionals as well as organizations use Outlook to open and view MSG files effectively. Here are the steps to follow to import MSG to Office 365 effectively via Outlook:
- Open Outlook, go to File, then tap on Add Account.
- Configure your Office 365 account using the correct credentials.
- Once added, create a new folder under your Office 365 mailbox.
- Now, go to the folder where your MSG files are saved.
- Select the MSG files you want to import into Outlook and drag them.
- Drop them into a newly created folder inside Outlook (Office 365 folder).
All in all, you can smoothly Import MSG to Outlook 365 with this easy drag and drop technique.
Limitations of Outlook for the Import MSG files to Microsoft 365 Process
Here are a few shortcomings that arise when using Outlook for MSG to Microsoft 365 import process.
- Not suitable for bulk MSG import.
- Vulnerable to technical as well as human error.
- The chances of losing metadata are high.
- No filters or option to skip duplicates.
Bulk MSG Support Via Automated Solution: Import MSG files to Microsoft 365
Limitations and drawbacks of manual processes to import MSG files to Office 365 seem to be a hassle so users rely on professional Email Migration Software. Opt for a reliable email migrator when dealing with bulk MSG files. Using manual methods for bulk import is trivial. So don’t sweat yourself, try out the professional solution to import multiple MSG files into Microsoft 365 with zero limitations.
Best Practices to Consider Before Importing MSG to Microsoft 365
The process to import MSG files to Microsoft 356 is a little bit tedious. You can follow the tips given below to avoid any recurring issue during the process:
- Organize all MSG files first to counter duplicity or email loss.
- Keep your internet connectivity stable and fast.
- Always take a clear backup of all MSG files in advance.
- Test with a small quantity of files at the time of migration.
Final Words
The process to import MSG files to Microsoft 365 looks simply, but not in reality. It involves many severe risks related to data and annoying limitations. To import a few MSG files to Office 365, you can use Outlook drag & drop. For real business scenarios, the manual method is not sufficient.
FAQs
1. Is it possible to import MSG files directly into Microsoft 365 Mail?
No, direct import is not possible. You must use Outlook to access MSG files and manually drag them into Microsoft 365 mail folders.
2. Which is the best way to organize MSG files during import?
Look to sort MSG files by date, sender, or project before the final import. This keeps your Microsoft 365 mailbox organized and reduces any kind of manual cleanup.
3. Can I import MSG files into shared Microsoft 365 mailboxes?
Yes, but only if you have access permissions. Open MSG in Outlook, then drag it into the shared mailbox folder without losing data.
