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Import MSG to Google Workspace (Gmail): Step-by-Step Methods Explained

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Published By Mohit Kumar Jha
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Approved By Anuraag Singh
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Published On August 27th, 2025
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Reading Time 5 Minutes Reading

Importing MSG files into Google Workspace isn’t straightforward because Gmail doesn’t support the MSG format natively. Since MSG files are tied to Microsoft Outlook, you can convert them into a compatible format like MBOX/EML or use a professional migration tool. This guide outlines both the methods to import MSG to Gmail simultaneously. 

Why can’t Google Workspace Import MSG Files Directly?

MSG is a Microsoft Outlook format, and it’s not supported by Gmail or Google Workspace APIs. Instead, Google prefers MBOX and EML formats. That means if you want to import MSG to Google Workspace, you need to either:

  • Convert MSG to EML and upload manually.
  • Convert MSG to MBOX and import using scripts or tools.
  • Use a third-party tool that supports direct MSG to G Suite migration.

All these things, we’ll cover next. Let’s start!

How to Import MSG to Gmail or Google Workspace?

I’ve been working with Google Workspace for over 12+ years, which is why I know the best and practical solutions to convert MSG to G Suite-supported formats. i.e.

#Method 1. Manual Import MSG to Google Workspace

If you’re having only 10 to 12 MSG, then you can opt for this by following these steps:

  1. Open the MSG file in Outlook.
  2. Use Save As > select .eml format.
  3. Open Gmail in your Google Workspace account.
  4. Drag and drop the EML files into Gmail, or upload via an email client like Thunderbird connected to Gmail via IMAP.

This process is impractical if you’re dealing with hundreds or thousands of messages. Therefore, consider the next solution if you have large data. 

#Method 2. Convert MSG to MBOX & Import

For bulk email imports, I found converting MSG files into MBOX format much more efficient. Google provides tools and scripts to import MSG to Gmail reliably. Here’s how:

Step 1. Convert MSG to MBOX

There is no manual method to convert MSG to MBOX/EML. That’s why you have to opt for a third-party solution. I tried more than 15 solutions, and among them, I found SysTools MSG to MBOX Converter is reliable. 

Why do I suggest this?

  • Easily handles thousands of MSG files in one go.
  • Keeps formatting, metadata (To, Cc, Bcc, Date), and attachments intact.
  • Converts MSG not just to MBOX but also to EML, PST, and other formats if needed.

After the conversion, you can import MSG Files into Outlook 365. Still, if you have any doubts, you can try this for free before any commitment. For further queries, you can ask their 24/7 Support from their official website.

Step 2. Prepare Google Workspace

Prepare your G Suite account to import MSG to Gmail, if not ready yet:

  • Create a service account in Google Cloud.
  • Enable domain-wide delegation and grant Gmail API scopes:
    • https://www.googleapis.com/auth/gmail.insert
    • https://www.googleapis.com/auth/gmail.labels
  • Download the service account JSON and keep it secure.

Step 3. Use Google’s Import MSG to Google Workspace Script

I used the import-mailbox-to-gmail script. It uploads MBOX files directly into user accounts using the Gmail API. It even supports:

  • Resume after failures.
  • Docker support for easier automation.
  • Label mapping.

This solution requires technical know-how and an advanced tool. If you want direct import, then opt for the next software. 

#Method 3. Use a Professional Tool to Import MSG to Gmail Directly

Because there’s no built-in option to import MSG files into Google Workspace, the easiest and most reliable approach is to use a professional tool. Fortunately, I found the SysTools MSG to Google Workspace Importer to be the most effective.

Download Now Purchase Now

This software can directly import MSG into Google Workspace (Gmail) simultaneously. During my tests, it preserved folder structure, attachments, and metadata without data loss.

Not only this, but it will:

  • Maintains original email properties (To, Cc, Bcc, Date, Subject, Attachments).
  • Allows mapping MSG files to the right Gmail account/folder.
  • Comes with a simple and guided interface, making it easy even for non-technical users.
  • Not only MSG, but it support multiple file formats, you can even import PST to Google Workspace.
  • Provides advanced filters to import only the emails you need.

Steps to Import MSG to Google Workspace Directly

Download the specified solution on a Windows or Mac system, and follow the instructions:

  • Select the source (MSG) and the target platform (G Suite).
  • Mark the Email checkbox. Set the date filter if needed. 
  • Now, browse the MSG via the Import Folder Path option.
  • Now, in the Destination Screen, provide the Admin Email, Service Account details, and upload the Certificate File.
  • Load the source users via Fetch Users, Import Users, and Download Template.
  • Press the Start Import button.

Best Practices to Import MSG to Gmail Error-free

To make a hassle-free import, double-check a few things:

  • Keep a copy of all MSG files before starting.
  • Ensure Google Workspace has enough storage quota.
  • Run a pilot migration with a small batch first.
  • Confirm metadata, attachments, and labels post-import.

Also Read: How to Import MBOX to Google Workspace?

Author’s Verdict

Importing MSG files into Google Workspace isn’t direct, but it’s definitely doable. I’ve tried and tested these methods to import MSG to Gmail effortlessly. So, you can opt for any as all are practical and official, and will help you to import MSG to Google Workspace with expected results.