Quick Method to Convert MBOX File into CSV with Attachments

Aug 27

5 min read

MBOX files are popularly used by the different email clients including Mozilla Thunderbird to store and organize the mailbox data efficiently. However, not all email services support MBOX files and this gives challenges when a user has to migrate, transfer or even view the emails from one email service providers to the other. To avoid this, a majority of users prefer to convert MBOX files into CSV format since almost all applications accept CSV format, and data becomes more manageable.If you want to migrate your MBOX files to CSV, then you will have to do it either manually, which may consume a lot of time, and expertise, or use the specialized MBOX Converter. There is a special program to perform this conversion and thus there is no loss of data when transferring, it also saves time and effort in data processing.

Through this blog, we will evaluate different possibilities and provide a comparison to help your selection decision. Choosing the wrong option could lead to potential loss of data or the possibility of it being deleted forever from your devices. That is why it is important to know how these are differ and how CSV might be the better option rather than MBOX files.

Difference between MBOX and CSV:

Here are the key differences between MBOX and CSV file formats:

Feature	MBOX	CSV
Purpose	Stores complete email messages and mailbox data.	Stores data in a tabular format, usually for spreadsheets.
Structure	Text-based format with entire email content stored as plain text.	Text-based format with data separated by commas or other delimiters.
Supported Applications	Email clients like Mozilla Thunderbird, Apple Mail, and others.	Spreadsheet applications like Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and databases.
Data Type	Contains email metadata, body, attachments, and headers.	Contains structured data like contacts, inventory, or any tabular information.
Readability	Requires email client software to view content in a user-friendly way.	Easily readable in text editors and spreadsheet applications.
Data Accessibility	Limited to compatible email clients or through conversion.	Widely accessible across various applications and platforms.
Use Case	Ideal for managing and backing up emails.	Ideal for data analysis, importing/exporting database records, and data migration.

Why Migrate from MBOX file to CSV Format:

Data Utilization: CSV data can be opened by a number of software, including text editors, excel spreadsheets, Google spreadsheets, which will enable a wider distribution, analysis of the data.

Data Management: CSV format allows an individual to present structured or unstructured data, or lists (i.e. contacts, emails, financial records, etc.) in a table format that is easy to sort, manage, and export into other systems.

Compatibility: Since not all environments can utilize MBOX, conversion to CSV will ensure data can be used in different environments where compatibility is a concern.

Data Analysis: If required to develop analysis, reporting, or visualization, CSV is also usually more adaptable to those environments due to its structured format.

Migration to Other Systems: And lastly, migrating data to other systems often requires conversion as many systems do not support MBOX data management, such as CRM systems or other database systems.

Ease of Use: Also, because CSV files can be opened and edited in simple text editors or spreadsheet applications, users may find CSV to be user-friendly and versatile compared to accessing MBOX.

How can save MBOX File to CSV Format?

Here, we have three different ways to complete the process. From the methods, you can choose the appropriate one. Additionally, using mnaul method is little bit tough. Therefore, many users prefer to opt for professional method. Here are the complete process explained below, lets take a look.

#1 Manual Solution to Change an MBOX File into CSV

If you want to implement the process manually, you can use 2 methods. Let's try both now.

Method 1. Using Mozilla Thunderbird to Save MBOX File into CSV

This method uses Mozilla Thunderbird, which is required. This email client is made to send, receive, organize and act on emails as well as storage, it stores data in the .mbox file extension. Afterwards to convert MBOX to CSV, here are the working steps.

In the first step, run the Thunderbird app on your device.
Now, select Address Book from the top menu bar.
Next look for the Tools menu and press it.
Select Export and provide a working file name.
Provide a path to store the resultant CSV file on your system.
Hit Save to complete the procedure.

Method 2: Using the ImportExportNG Tool through a Thunderbird Add-On

Unlike the method described above, a Thunderbird add-on can be used to convert emails in addition to your contacts. If you want to use this method to convert MBOX file to CSV then follow the outlined steps.

First, open Mozilla Thunderbird.
Then, click the menu icon found in the top right.
Next, select Add-Ons and Themes.
After this, enter ImportExportNG into the search box.
Next, click Add to add the tool in Thunderbird.
After this, close the Thunderbird app and open it again.
Right-click on the main account or a folder.
After this, select ImportExportNG Tool option.
Now select the folder or emails to export into CSV.
And then you can notice the function of the add-on, once done, click OK.
Lastly, specify the destination to save your data.

The methods used above are free and easy, but it can be time consuming and even complicated. For this reason, they are not recommended for a bulk MBOX to CSV conversion. If you want a more efficient solution, you have to use MBOX file Converter.

#2 Professional Solution to Export MBOX Files to CSV

WebbyAcad MBOX Converter is a reliable and versatile tool designed to help you convert MBOX files to CSV in bulk. This software offers a seamless conversion experience, allowing you to save MBOX files in other formats as well, depending on your needs. The conversion process is quick, with no downtime, and the software ensures that your data remains secure and intact throughout the process. The original folder structure and data integrity are preserved, and the tool includes features like duplicate removal and selective data migration to make the process even easier.

Steps to Save MBOX Files into CSV

Follow these steps to convert MBOX files to CSV using WebbyAcad MBOX Converter:

Launch the MBOX Converter Tool:

Start by opening the WebbyAcad MBOX Converter on your system.

Add MBOX Files:

Click on "Select Files" to browse and add the MBOX files you want to convert.
Once selected, hit "Open" to load the files into the software.

Preview and Select Mailbox Items:

The software will allow you to preview the contents of the MBOX file.
Select the specific mailbox items you want to convert to CSV, then click "Next."

Choose CSV as the Output Format:

From the drop-down list of available formats, choose "CSV."

Set the Destination Path:

Choose a location on your system where you want the converted CSV files to be saved.

Initiate the Conversion:

Finally, click "Convert" to start the conversion process.
The software will convert your MBOX files to CSV format and save them to the specified location.

Using the WebbyAcad MBOX Converter makes the conversion process straightforward, ensuring your data is securely and accurately migrated with all the necessary features to enhance the experience.

Wrapping Up:

Converting MBOX files to CSV can be essential for ensuring compatibility and ease of data management across different platforms. While manual methods are available, they can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Expert tools like the WebbyAcad MBOX Converter software offers a reliable and efficient solution, allowing you to convert MBOX files to CSV in bulk while maintaining data integrity and security. With added features like duplicate removal and selective data migration, these tools simplify the process and ensure that your data is accurately converted and ready for use. Whether you opt for the manual method or for a professional solution, understanding the process and using the right tools is key to a successful conversion.