How to Upload OST in PST for Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013?

Upload OST Mailboxes to PST File Format for Microsoft Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007 & 2003

To work with Exchange mailbox accounts in offline mode via MS Outlook, what is required is in an OST (Offline Storage Table) file that presents to you the same copy of your Exchange Server account. At whatever time you’re Outlook account is connected to the server, an OST file is synced with all information in your online mailbox. This file is extremely helpful when the server is facing downtime or an unexpected deletion or is unobtainable because of scheduled maintenance. In such situations, you can continue to work manually with your mailbox owing to the OST file and any alteration you make are merged with the server account when the server comes back online.

Though, if you switch your machine and require to access the OST data file on another system, a simple copy-paste of the file doesn’t work as in the case of PST (Personal Storage Table) files. Therefore, the best way to migrate an OST between multiple computers is by moving it to the PST file format. Moreover, extracting data from the corrupt or damaged OST file in another factor that provides rise to the necessity of OST conversion.

Methods to Upload OST in PST File Format

When we talk about exporting or uploading OST files into PST files, there are quite a few days to do it. While a few methods require manual steps to be applied, other simple and effective methods are completely automated.

Method#1. Professional Software - OST to PST Converter

Maybe the safest, accurate and easier way for OST to PST migration is by utilizing a third-party program like OST Converter. This effective program performs the migration of all OST items to Outlook PST files in their actual format and hierarchy without any data loss or data damage. Additionally, it has an easy to use interface that makes the whole working with it very simple and friendly.

But such third-party software comes at a price, securing in export help like this has its benefits - you are guaranteed that all the data will be exported, in minimum time, without any technical knowledge and success. Therefore, this option overshadows the others by fairly a margin.

Method#2. Outlook’s Built-in Import-Export Wizard Feature

Another easier way to export OST in PST file is by using Microsoft Outlook’s inbuilt “Import/Export” feature. Moreover to moving the data from OST o PST format, users can also export the OST to CSV and Excel formats via this technique. In addition, being inbuilt makes this feature a seamless blend of manual and professional techniques.

But, the catch with this technique or method is the requirement for technical expertise. If you have never performed this type of migration before, you might find yourself a bit lost in some places. You will require to inform or notify yourself with all functions of the exporter before initiating the process.

Method#3. Drag and Drop Items from an Offline Data File OST to PST

This is a completely manual way to upload OST items to PST format. It includes literally dragging and dropping mailbox items to the new PST file. For using this technique, first, you have to create a new PST file in Outlook and then drag the required items from OST into it. But, it sounds really basic, this technique actually works really well.

However, there is a catch. By using this technique all you can convert individual items from an OST file. Folder hierarchy and default folders like Inbox, Calendars, and Contacts, etc. cannot be exported. You have to create them again in the new PST file and reorganize all data. Plus, individually moving data can take a long time.

Final Words

Any technical work achieved manually is a bit risky at a few points. But a manual and free technique might seem appealing, any mistake throughout the process could assist to terrible effects like OST corruption or worse, data loss. Therefore make sure you take the complete backup of your data before initiating the migration. In addition, the suggested method to go would be through an automated OST to PST software that is reliable and trustworthy.