How to Import EML Files to Zimbra Desktop? Complete Guide

Rollins Duke
Published: April 7th, 2026 • 6 Min Read

Want to import EML files to Zimbra? This guide covers all manual and professional EML to TGZ Converter to easily upload EML files into Zimbra. This approach is fully reliable to preserve attachments, folder structure and email properties intact in their original form.

The main challenge that many users often face is, Zimbra only supports importing TGZ files. But don’t worry, here you will get effective solutions that 100% work and are tested.

Important Note: Before starting you must know that Zimbra desktop has been officially discontinued and no longer receives updates and support. However, many users still use older versions to manage their local mailbox. This practice is not recommended by experts as it is highly on risk as it has no security.

The suggested platform to access your emails is Zimbra Cloud as it is working actively and provides better performance with advanced security to users.

Also Read – Import EML files to Mac Mail

Manual Method to Import EML files in Zimbra

This is a free method but it is only suggested for technical users as it requires a little bit of technical skills.

Tip: Create a separate Gmail account for effective and confusion free migration.

Phase 1- Configure Gmail Account in Thunderbird

Open Thunderbird > go to Menu > New Account > Email.
Enter your user name and newly created email ID.
Choose IMAP and verify your mail with OAuth Authentication.

Phase2- Import EML files in Thunderbird

Navigate to Menu > Add-ons and Themes > search ImportExportTools NG > click Add to Thunderbird.
Now, right-click on the Gmail account ID > select New Folder > give it a name. (Not compulsory, you can also select existing folders)
Right-click on the folder > ImportExportTools NG > Import EML Messages > All messages from a directory and subdirectories.
Choose the EML files that you want to import.

Phase3- Export EML files in TGZ format

Go to the browser, search Google Takeout.
Navigate to its main home page.
Enter newly created Gmail account details as asked.
Select Mail and click on Next step.
Now, select File type as .tgz > frequency destination > file size based on your requirements.
Lastly, click on Create Export.

Phase4- Import TGZ to Zimbra Desktop

Open Zimbra > click on Preferences.
Select Import/Export option > click on choose file to browse TGZ files.
Finally, click Import.

Now your EML files have been successfully imported. If your account is configured using IMAP then it will reflect on the server after syncing.

Limitations of the Manual Approach

It is a time-consuming process as it involves multiple complex steps.
Requires a stable internet connection to sync emails.
There is a high risk of losing emails and attachments.
This manual way is dependent on email clients.
Non-technical users should not try this as it will lead to a lengthy and frustrating process.

Expert Approved Way to Import EML to Zimbra Mail

BitRecover EML Converter is a dedicated solution that helps to overcome the challenges of the manual method. It enables users to directly convert EML to TGZ and transfer in the Zimbra account. The software supports a simple interface with simple steps which makes it an approachable solution for all types of users and lets the user handle everything in a single place without putting much effort.

Download the tool and enjoy a seamless experience with the free demo version available.

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EML to Zimbra Converter Features

This software allows you to import EML files to Zimbra in batch which further saves time and effort.
It does not impose any size and quantity limitation for transferring EML files in the Zimbra TGZ format.
EML to Zimbra Software allows to convert EML to Zimbra TGZ format with all types of attachments like DOC, PDF, Image, XPS, PPT, XLS, CSV, vCard, ICS, PST, MBOX, MSG, RTF, MP3, AVI, etc.
This application maintains all email attributes like header, send information, receive information, email subject, email signature, email body, inline images, hyperlinks, etc. in the same way as they were saved in the system.
It preserves folders and sub-folders structure that helps to easily organize emails.
The tool creates a generic TGZ file that can be easily imported to all editions of Zimbra Desktop, Zimbra Server, and Zimbra Web Client without showing any error message.
The EML to Zimbra migration tool offers an option to set a destination path for storing the resultant TGZ files at your choice location.
It is compatible with all editions of Windows and macOS.

How to Import EML files into Zimbra in Easy Steps?

Download and run the EML to Zimbra Converter on your device.
Select Files or Select Folders to add required EML files.
Check or uncheck selected EML files from software panel and press Next to continue.
Select Zimbra from the saving options list.
Choose the destination path by clicking on the Folder icon.
At last, click Convert to start the EML to TGZ conversion process.
Now run Zimbra and choose Preferences >> Import/Export >> Choose File option and select resultant TGZ file to import in Zimbra.

How to Import TGZ Files to Zimbra? Watch Live Video

After converting EML to TGZ format, it is compulsory to import TGZ file in Zimbra so here we are giving a video which demonstrates the step-by-step procedure to import TGZ files into Zimbra.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is it necessary to install an EML based email client or Zimbra to migrate EML files?

Ans. No, to convert EML to TGZ you can use a professional tool as it does not require any email client to perform the process. However, to import the converted TGZ file you will need Zimbra Mail.

Q2. Can I import multiple EML files to Zimbra at once?

Ans. Yes, the tool supports batch mode that allows you to convert multiple EML files to TGZ in a single cycle. It does not permit any size restrictions.

Q3. Does EML to TGZ Converter hold all attachments while conversion?

Ans. Yes, the tool keeps all attachments safe during the EML to Zimbra migration procedure. Feel risk-free while operating the tool.

The Verdict

At last, we will conclude that always choose the right method based on your mailbox size and requirements. While other manual methods exist, they are not safe and sometimes lead to multiple issues. So, it is better to trust on a software that guarantees data safety and ensures a quick process with accurate results.

Additionally if you feel any challenge while working with the software, feel free to contact the support team. They are always available to assist your queries.