01 logo

How to Import All Outlook Mailboxes, Labels, and Drafts into Gmail?

Import Outlook mail, folders, and drafts to Gmail easily with or without Outlook.

By Alexis MatthewPublished 7 months ago 4 min read

It's easier than it appears to transfer your emails, folders, and drafts if you're switching from Microsoft Outlook to Gmail or just want to keep everything in one place. Gmail is an email service that is both adaptable and robust. It works nicely with various programs, even Outlook. This blog will show you how to migrate your Outlook data to Gmail in steps.

Let's start with the manual method. Then, we'll show you how to use a professional tool called the GainTools Cloud Importer to make the process go faster and easier.

Click Here to Try Now

Why Import Outlook Mail to Gmail?

There are various reasons why people migrate from Outlook to Gmail. Some people desire to employ Gmail's smart tools. Some people like being able to check their email from any device at any time.

Here are some common reasons:

  • Switching from Microsoft 365 to Google Workspace
  • Combining all of your email accounts into a single Gmail account
  • Getting to Outlook emails on your phone without any problems with syncing
  • Gmail has better spam filters and search tools.
  • No matter why you want to move your Outlook emails, folders, and drafts, you can do so safely and correctly.

Manual Method to Import All Outlook Mailboxes, Labels, and Drafts into Gmail

You can get your emails without using third-party solutions by doing it by hand. Using IMAP, you may import Outlook emails, folders, and even drafts into Gmail.

Step 1: Turn on IMAP in Gmail

  • Sign in to your Gmail account
  • To see all settings, go to Settings > See All Settings.
  • Click the tab that says "Forwarding and POP/IMAP."
  • Select Enable IMAP under IMAP Access.
  • Press "Save Changes"

Step 2: Link Your Gmail Account to Outlook

  • Start Microsoft Outlook
  • Click File, then Add Account
  • Type in your Gmail address and click "Connect."
  • If two-step verification is on, type in your Gmail password or app password.
  • Click "Finish."

Outlook will now show your Gmail mailbox.

Step 3: Move your emails to Gmail

Outlook now has Gmail:

  • Open Outlook and find the folder you wish to move (Inbox, Sent, Drafts, or Custom folders).
  • Choose all the emails
  • Right-click and select Move > Copy to Folder.
  • Choose the folder that matches your Gmail account.

Wait until all the emails have been copied (this could take a while depending on how many there are).

Do this for every folder, which includes:

  • Email Box
  • Sent Mail
  • Drafts
  • Labels for Custom Folders

Outlook will send them to Gmail servers using IMAP. When you upload them, they show up in Gmail with the same labels.

The Manual Method Has Some Problems

The manual method is possible, but it has some problems:

  • It takes a long time and is slow.
  • You need to install and set up Outlook.
  • Folders might not match up with Gmail labels correctly.
  • Files or attachments that are too big may not go through.
  • It needs to know how to do things.

If you have more than one mailbox or don't have much time, it's advisable to utilize a specialist application.

Easy Solution to Import All Outlook Mailboxes, Labels, and Drafts into Gmail

If you want to transfer Outlook mailboxes to Gmail quickly and without errors, the GainTools Cloud Importer is the perfect answer. This application is for people who want to move all of their Outlook data, such as emails, labels (folders), sent items, and drafts, to Gmail without having to set anything up by hand.

You don't have to install Outlook or change the IMAP settings when you use this method. This simplifies and expedites the process for you. The tool works with your PST file, which is where Outlook keeps all of your email information. You merely choose your PST file, log in to your Gmail account through the application, and start the import.

The software does everything for you in the background. It:

  • Keeps the original folder structure (Inbox, Sent, Drafts, and custom folders)
  • Makes Gmail labels that match automatically
  • Moves emails with attachments and metadata without losing them
  • Supports bulk imports, which means you can move more than one mailbox at a time.

It's quick, easy, and doesn't need any technical know-how. You can move your Outlook data to Gmail with just a few clicks, even if you're not very good with computers. This software makes the conversion process easy and stress-free for everyone, whether you are a home user, an IT admin, or a small business owner.

How It Works:

  • Launch GainTools Cloud Importer
  • Add your PST file(s)
  • Go to the Browse button and add the files from the system to the software interface. Select Folder or File mode. Click Next.
  • Select a cloud application from the provided list. If it is not present in the list, select "Export to IMAP Account."
  • Please provide a genuine username and password for your cloud application. Select the "Authenticate User" icon.
  • Choose a folder that already exists or make a new one to save the files in.
  • Finally, click the button that says "Upload Now." This will begin the process of bringing things in.

The tool takes care of everything. It uploads emails with attachments, retains folder structure, and maps them to Gmail labels.

Common Questions Answered

1. Can I move all folders, including Drafts and Sent Items?

Yes. Both manual and tool-based methods allow this, but the tool ensures better results.

2. What if I don’t have Outlook installed?

The manual methods won’t work. GainTools Cloud Importer is your best option.

3. Will attachments be preserved?

Yes. All emails are transferred with attachments.

4. Are Gmail labels created automatically?

Really. The tool aligns Gmail labels with Outlook folders.

5. Can I import emails from multiple PST files?

Yes. You can batch import all of them using the tool.

Final Thoughts

It doesn't have to be hard to move Outlook mailboxes to Gmail. If you merely have a few emails and use Outlook, the manual technique is fine. If you want to move everything quickly, safely, and completely, including all folders, labels, and drafts, then Cloud Importer is the better option.

It cuts out the technical processes, keeps you from making mistakes, and saves you time. This tool makes it easy to switch email services or back up your data to Gmail.

how to

About the Creator

Alexis Matthew

Hi am content writer

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2026 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.