Exporting G Suite Data into a PST file can allow users to migrate platforms, create a local backup, or fulfill legal requirements. In this article, we can accomplish that with the help of Google Takeout.
How do I export all emails from G Suite?
By following the steps below, you can export your Google Workspace data, specifically your Gmail, to a downloadable file, which you can then convert or import into Outlook as a PST file.
Step 1: Access Google Takeout
Google Takeout is a tool that can be used to export data from various Google products.
- Log in to your G Suite/Google Workspace account.
- Go directly to the Google Takeout page.
Step 2: Select the Data to Export
1. Once on the page, click on “Deselect all”.
2. Scroll down to the “Mail” and check the box next to it.
- Optional: If you want a specific subset of mail, click “All mail data included” to choose specific labels instead of your entire mailbox.
3. Scroll to the bottom and click on “Next step”.
Step 3: Choose Your Export Settings
After Clicking on Next Step. You will then be moved to the Customize archive format page. You will then need to set the following-
- Delivery Method: Select how you want to receive the archive. The most common choice is “Send download link via email”.
- Frequency: Choose “Export once” for a one-time migration or backup.
- File type & Size:
- File type: select .zip file type.
- Size: Choose an archive size that suits your needs. For large mailboxes, a size like 10 GB or 50 GB is recommended.
4. Click “Create export”.
- Additionally, you will be sent a confirmation email to your Gmail address. Go to your inbox and confirm the export request.
Step 4: Download the Archive File
Google will now start processing your request. Depending on the amount of data, this process can take hours or even days. If you have only selected your mailbox, an hour is more likely.
- You will receive an email notification when your export is ready.
- Follow the link in the email to the Takeout page and download the archive file to your computer.
Step 5: Convert the MBOX File to PST
All the selected Gmail data will be exported as an MBOX file.
MBOX is not natively readable by Outlook.
To complete the export to PST, you have two primary options:
Option A: Use a Third-Party MBOX to PST Converter
This is the most common and direct method. You will need to purchase or use a trial of a commercial software tool designed to perform this conversion. Make sure to use a trusted brand.
Option B: Utilize an Email Client (Less Direct)
This method involves setting up a free email client, importing the MBOX file, and then exporting to PST, which is often complex and less reliable than a dedicated converter.
Option C: Set up a new account on Outlook using your Gmail address.
- Open Microsoft Outlook
- Click on File.
- Click on Account Settings and Select Account Settings.
- Click on new… and select Add Account.
- Enter the same Gmail address. Let Outlook configure it via IMAP.
- Once added, all emails you uploaded from Thunderbird will appear in Outlook.
Step 6: Import the PST File into Outlook
Once you have your converted PST file, you can easily add it to any Microsoft Outlook installation.
1. Open Microsoft Outlook.
2. Go to the File tab and select Open & Export.
3. Select Import from another program or file and click on Next>.
4. Click on Open Outlook Data File.
5. Browse to the location where you saved the converted PST file and select it.
The PST file will now appear in your Outlook navigation pane, allowing you to access all your G Suite email data locally.
