📥 Introduction

In this article, we’ll guide you through importing Local Folders from Thunderbird into Mailbird.

The exact steps depend on the protocol your email account uses (IMAP or POP3). Below, you’ll find detailed instructions for both scenarios.

☁️ Import Local Folders to an IMAP Account in Mailbird

Currently, Mailbird does not support direct import of local folders into IMAP accounts. However, you can upload your local folders from Thunderbird to your IMAP server, and Mailbird will sync them automatically.

Steps to follow:

1. In Thunderbird, click and hold the local folder you want to upload.
2. Drag and drop the folder into your IMAP account.
3. Ensure the IMAP account is highlighted/selected before releasing the folder (as shown below).
4. Once dropped, the upload will begin automatically.

⚠️ Important notes:

• Upload time depends on folder size (emails + attachments).
• Keep Thunderbird open until the upload is fully complete.

✅ Verify the upload:

To confirm everything transferred correctly:

• Log in to your email via webmail (e.g., Gmail, Outlook).
• Compare the uploaded folder contents with your original Thunderbird local folder to ensure they match.

💾 Import Local Folders to a POP3 Account in Mailbird

For POP3 accounts, Mailbird allows direct import of local folders from Thunderbird.

Step 1: Locate your Thunderbird Local Folder files

1. Open Thunderbird.

2. Right-click Local Folders → select Settings.

   

3. Find Local Directory.
4. Press CTRL + A to select the full path, then CTRL + C to copy it (as shown below)

Step 2: Import the folders into Mailbird

1. Close Thunderbird and open Mailbird.
2. Click the Mailbird menu (☰ top-left).
3. Go to Settings → Accounts tab.
4. Double-click the account you want to import into.
5. Click Import messages.

Step 3: Select the local folder files

1. In the import window:
   • Choose Msf file under From the external source.

   • Click Browse.

     

2. In the file browser:
   • Clear the current path.
   • Paste the copied Thunderbird path (CTRL + V) and press Enter
3. You will see multiple files named like:
   Local Storage Folder + random characters (this is the format Thunderbird uses to store local folders).
4. Select one file and click Open.

Step 4: Complete the import

• The selected folder will appear in Mailbird under Imported messages.
• The folder name will match the file name, but you can rename it using Mailbird’s folder management tools.

🎉 Final Notes

We hope this guide makes importing your local folders into Mailbird straightforward and efficient.

If you need further assistance, please contact our support team via the contact form—we’re happy to help!