In classic Outlook, first choose File > Open & Export > Open Outlook Data File and inspect the recovered PST. To import it, go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export, select Import from another program or file, choose Outlook Data File (.pst), select the PST, choose duplicate handling, select the top-level folder, enable Include subfolders, and choose the destination mailbox.
Should you open the PST or import it?
| Action | What happens | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| Open the PST | The data stays in its own file and appears as a separate folder tree. | Checking recovered data, browsing archives, and avoiding duplicates. |
| Import the PST | Outlook copies selected folders and items into another mailbox or data file. | Merging verified data into a working Outlook profile. |
Opening is safer when you have just recovered the file. You can compare folders, message dates, contacts, and calendar items without immediately mixing them into the current mailbox.
Prepare the recovered Outlook Data File (PST)
- Keep an untouched backup of the recovered PST.
- Copy the working PST to a local drive.
- Make sure the file is not read-only.
- Confirm that the destination mailbox has enough free space.
- Close other applications that may be using the PST.
Do not import directly from a network share, cloud-sync folder, or removable drive. Work from a local copy and keep the original recovered file elsewhere.
Open and verify the PST before importing
In classic Outlook, choose File > Open & Export > Open Outlook Data File, select the recovered PST, and choose Open. Expand its top-level folder in the navigation pane.
Check more than the Inbox:
- Custom folders and nested subfolders
- Sent Items and Deleted Items
- Message bodies and attachments
- Contacts and contact fields
- Calendar appointments and meetings
- Tasks and notes
If the PST does not open or appears incomplete, do not import it. Return to the recovery copy and resolve the data-file problem first.
Keep the verified PST open as a reference and import into a test profile or empty folder when possible. Do not delete the recovered source until the imported data has been checked and backed up.
Import the PST with the Import and Export Wizard
Open the Import and Export Wizard
In classic Outlook, choose File > Open & Export > Import/Export. Select Import from another program or file, then choose Next.
Select Outlook Data File (.pst)
Choose Outlook Data File (.pst) and select Next. Browse to the local copy of the verified recovered PST.
Choose how Outlook handles duplicates
Outlook normally offers three options. Choose deliberately rather than accepting the default without checking:
Select the folder and include subfolders
Select the top-level folder when you want the complete PST. Enable Include subfolders so custom folders and nested hierarchy are copied. For a smaller import, select only the required folder.
Choose the correct destination
Select the mailbox or Outlook Data File that should receive the imported items. Check the account name carefully when several mailboxes are open. Choose Finish and leave Outlook running until the import completes.
What if you are using new Outlook?
New Outlook can open PST files under Settings > Files > Outlook Data Files on supported systems. Microsoft currently allows users to browse and move or copy email between a PST and a mailbox, but bulk importing Mail, Calendar, and Contacts from a PST into a mailbox is not yet fully available.
Microsoft also lists requirements for opening PST files in new Outlook, including a compatible classic Outlook installation and matching 32-bit or 64-bit architecture. Support limitations can change as new Outlook is updated.
For a complete PST import—especially contacts and calendar data—switch to classic Outlook and use the Import and Export Wizard.
Check the result after importing
Wait for Outlook to finish before closing it. Large PST files and server mailboxes may continue synchronizing after the wizard disappears.
- Compare important folder names and subfolders.
- Check the newest and oldest message dates.
- Open several attachments.
- Check contacts, calendars, tasks, and notes.
- Search for a few known items.
- Look for duplicate folders or messages.
Keep the recovered PST until the destination has been backed up and the imported data is confirmed. Closing a PST in Outlook only removes it from the navigation pane; it does not delete the file.
Frequently asked questions
Is opening a PST the same as importing it?+
No. Opening keeps the data in a separate PST. Importing copies selected folders and items into another mailbox or data file.
Which duplicate option should I choose?+
Allow duplicates avoids replacing existing items but may require cleanup. Do not import duplicates can reduce repetition, while Replace duplicates changes matching destination items. Use a test destination when uncertain.
How do I preserve subfolders during import?+
Select the correct top-level folder and enable Include subfolders in the Import and Export Wizard.
Can new Outlook import a complete PST?+
Microsoft currently provides partial PST support in new Outlook, but full bulk import into a mailbox remains limited. Use classic Outlook for complete Import and Export Wizard functionality.
Should I delete the recovered PST after importing?+
Keep it until the imported data has been verified and backed up. Store the archive securely when it is no longer needed in Outlook.