Using
IMAP can work, but think of it more like a helpful bridge than a direct solution. IMAP can’t convert
MBOX to TGZ by itself, but it can help move your emails. Here’s how it works: you import your MBOX file into an email client like Thunderbird, then sync those emails to an IMAP account (Gmail, Yahoo, etc.). After syncing, you can open the same IMAP mailbox in Zimbra and export it as a
TGZ file.
From my experience, this method is doable, but it has a few hiccups. It can be slow with large MBOX files, depending on your internet speed, and sometimes the folder structure or read/unread status may not stay perfect. That’s why using a professional
MBOX Converter is usually much easier and safer. Tools like
BLR Tools let you convert MBOX files directly to TGZ while keeping emails, attachments, and folder hierarchy exactly as they are. Plus, they offer a
free demo, so you can try it out before doing the complete conversion — a really handy way to make sure everything works smoothly!
Here’s a
short and easy step-by-step to move MBOX emails using IMAP in the tool:
- Open the MBOX Converter (like BLR Tools).
- Add your MBOX file(s).
- Choose the IMAP option and enter your email account details.
- Select the folders or emails you want to migrate.
- Click Export/Sync to upload emails to the IMAP server.
Now, your emails are accessible from
Zimbra or any email client using the same IMAP account. The tool also offers a
free demo to test the process first.
