Thunderbird ImportExportTools NG is Not Working

For instance, a user who wants to migrate from Apple Mail or any other MBOX-based email client to Thunderbird can import the MBOX file using the ImportExportTools NG. Similarly, users can also view email (EML) files copied from the Outlook client in Thunderbird.

But recently, there have been reports that the ImportExportTools NG add-on is not working for some users. As a result, they can’t export or import the MBOX files or view EML files in Thunderbird.

This article explains solutions to fix the ImportExportTools NG add-on not working issue and helps you import/export the MBOX files in Thunderbird.

Solutions to Fix ImportExportTools NG Add-On Not Working Issue

After installing the ImportExportTools NG add-on in Thunderbird, if the Thunderbird import outlook is greyed out, ImportExportTools NG is not working, or the extension fails to export/import the mail items to/from MBOX files, follow these solutions.

1. Configure an Email Account

It has been observed that some users who reported this issue were trying to import or open the MBOX files in Thunderbird directly, without adding or configuring an email account or mailbox. In such cases, the ImportExportTools NG is greyed out and doesn’t allow users to perform any import. 

To import or export messages using ImportExportTools NG, you must add a mailbox in Thunderbird. Once you have configured the email account, the ImportExportTools NG option that was greyed out will be available.

You can right-click on any mail folder or your profile and choose the import or export option available in ImportExportTools NG to import or export an MBOX file.

2. Reinstall the Add-On

If you have recently updated the Thunderbird email client, you may experience issues with some previously installed add-ons, such as ImportExportTools NG. If that’s the case, it is recommended to remove the add-on from the Thunderbird and install it again.

Even if you haven’t updated the Thunderbird client, it’s still recommended that you reinstall the add-on. This might fix the issue and allow you to import or export mail items in the Thunderbird client.

To reinstall the add on, follow these steps:

• Open Thunderbird and go to Tools > Add-ons and Themes.

• Find the ImportExportTools NG extension and click three dots. Choose Remove.

• Confirm and click Remove again.

• After removing the add-on, go to Tools > Add-ons and Themes and search for ImportExportTools NG.
• Click Add to Thunderbird.

• Click Add to confirm and install the add-on.

Once installed, restart the Thunderbird client and then try using the add-on to import or export the mail items to or from an MBOX file in Thunderbird.

Alterative Solution – Use an MBOX Converter Software

An MBOX converter software, such as Stellar Converter for MBOX can help in such a situation. Thunderbird saves the mail items in MBOX format but in an identity folder. However, the software provides you with the option to choose an MBOX file or identity folder containing MBOX files for the scan.

After the scan, it displays an enhanced preview of all mail items.

Further, it provides an option to export the mail items from the MBOX file or identity folder to Outlook importable PST format. You can choose to save the mail items in a new PST or export them to an existing Outlook PST file.

It also provides options to export the mail items from the Thunderbird email client to Office 365, PDF, RTF, and HTML formats.

The best part is that it supports 17+ MBOX-based email clients.

Conclusion

ImportExportTools NG is a handy Thunderbird add-on widely used to import and export mail items. You can also use it to view email files, such as EML or EMLX. However, if you are planning to move from a Thunderbird email client to Outlook, you need to convert MBOX to PST format. Stellar Converter for MBOX is one such software that can help you quickly move to Outlook or Office 365. You can download the demo version for free to get started and evaluate the software. 

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About The Author

Ravi Singh

Ravi Singh is a Senior Writer at Stellar®. He is an expert Tech Explainer, IoT enthusiast, and a passionate nerd with over 7 years of experience in technical writing. He writes about Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft 365, Email Migration, Linux, Windows, Mac, DIY Tech, and Smart Home. Ravi spends most of his weekends working with IoT (DIY Smart Home) devices and playing Overwatch. He is also a solo traveler who loves hiking and exploring new trails.