Before you import: convert the PST file
Apple Mail's import feature works with mbox format mailboxes, not PST files. The first step is converting your PST file into a format Apple Mail can read. This conversion runs entirely offline on your Mac — no internet connection or cloud service required.
Step-by-step: import PST into Apple Mail
1
Convert the PST file using an offline tool
Open the PST to Apple Mail converter and select your PST file. The tool reads the PST archive locally and produces a mailbox folder that Apple Mail can import. Wait for the conversion to complete before moving on.
2
Open Apple Mail's Import Mailboxes dialog
In Apple Mail, go to the menu bar and choose File > Import Mailboxes.
3
Select the converted mailbox folder
Navigate to the folder produced by the PST converter. Select it and click Continue. Apple Mail will begin importing your emails.
4
Review your imported email
Apple Mail places imported email into an "Import" mailbox. Your original folder structure will be preserved inside it. You can move messages into your regular mailboxes or leave them as imported.
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Will my existing Apple Mail email be affected?
No. Importing PST email creates a new mailbox in Apple Mail — it does not modify or overwrite your existing email. Your current inbox, sent items, and other mailboxes remain completely unchanged.
What gets imported from the PST file
The PST converter preserves the full contents of your PST archive:
- All email messages
- Original folder and subfolder structure
- Attachments
- Sent and received dates
- Email headers and metadata
Do I need Outlook to import PST into Apple Mail?
No. The standalone PST converter reads PST files directly on your Mac without Outlook. You can import PST email into Apple Mail even if Outlook has never been installed on your machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I import a PST file into Apple Mail?
Convert the PST file using an offline converter first, then import the result via File > Import Mailboxes in Apple Mail.
Does Apple Mail have a built-in PST import?
No. Apple Mail does not support PST files natively. A conversion step is required before import.
What format does Apple Mail import?
Apple Mail imports mbox format mailboxes. The PST converter produces mbox output that Apple Mail can import directly.
Will importing PST into Apple Mail overwrite my existing email?
No. Imported email is added as a separate mailbox. Your existing email is not affected.
Can I import a PST into Apple Mail without Outlook?
Yes. A standalone offline PST converter reads PST files directly on Mac without Outlook.
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