Step-by-Step Guide to Export Thunderbird Emails to EML Format

Written By Adom James
Updated on January 14th, 2026

Lauren’s Query: “I am using Mozilla Thunderbird to manage my emails. Now, I want to change them to EML format for backup or sharing purposes. What is the correct and secure way to export Thunderbird Emails to EML?”

Introduction: Mozilla Thunderbird is a widely used desktop email client that stores emails locally. Many users prefer converting Thunderbird emails because multiple email clients universally support EML files. However, Thunderbird does not offer a direct option to export EML files. This makes the process confusing for beginners. This guide explains the manual methods to convert Thunderbird to EML. Moreover, covers the verified CloudMigration Thunderbird Backup Tool.

Table of Contents

Why Use EML Format for Thunderbird Emails?

There are various reasons why users prefer to export Thunderbird emails to EML:

For easy email backup and archiving.
To support multiple email clients.
There is an individual email file storage.
No dependency on Thunderbird.
Also, it preserves original email content with no data loss.

Basic Process to Forward Thunderbird Emails to EML

Launch the CloudMigration Thunderbird Backup Software.
Select the profile.
Preview the entire mailbox.
Choose the EML as the saving format.
Click Convert to start the process.

Quick Solutions:

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How to Manually Export from Thunderbird to EML?

If you don’t prefer to use external tools, you can therefore use the manual techniques. Thunderbird allows saving emails either using drag-and-drop functionality or built-in options for single emails.

Steps to Migrate Emails from Thunderbird to EML Manually

Firstly, open Mozilla Thunderbird.
Now, select the required email folder.
Choose one or multiple emails.
Then, drag and drop selected emails to a local system folder.
Emails will be saved automatically in .eml format.
Lastly, repeat the process for other folders if needed.

Limitations of this Method to Export Thunderbird Emails to EML

It is not suitable for large mailboxes.
There is no bulk folder export option.
Time-consuming for multiple emails.
Might be a risk of missing emails.
No advanced filtering options.
Moreover, manual effort is required for each folder.

Trusted Approach to Export Thunderbird to EML

For bulk and secure processing, experts recommend using a CloudMigration Thunderbird Backup Tool. This solution automatically scans Thunderbird profiles and converts emails to EML format. It also helps users export Thunderbird Emails to CSV with complete accuracy. Additionally, the software ensures the process with zero data loss. It has a user-friendly interface that is suitable even for non-tech users.

One-Time Migration Service

Users who do not want to install software or perform the export themselves can opt for a one-time export service. Certified professionals securely export Thunderbird Emails to EML. Also, it ensures zero data loss and minimal user involvement.

Straightforward Steps to Use the CloudMigration Tool

Firstly, install the CloudMigration Thunderbird Backup Tool and select the profile via which you want to begin.

After that, expand the hierarchy, preview the mailbox, and click Next.

Further, choose EML as the saving output format.

In the end, apply the built-in features and click Convert to start the process.

Top Advantages of the Tool to Export Thunderbird Emails to EML

Supports all the users to export Thunderbird Emails into MSG
There is a bulk email export capability.
Preserves attachments and formatting intact without any loss.
It has selective email export options.
The tool has a user-friendly interface.

Note: This is a highly efficient software that is used to migrate Thunderbird to Apple Mail.

Real-Life Scenario
A legal firm stored years of email communication in Thunderbird and needed individual EML files for case documentation. Manual export was not practical due to volume. Using a CloudMigration Thunderbird backup tool, they save Thunderbird Messages as EML within minutes. Additionally, it preserves folder hierarchy and attachments.

Comparison Table: Manual vs Professional Methods

The table below highlights the key differences between manual and professional methods. This will help you choose the most suitable approach.

Factors	Manual Method	Professional Method
Ease of Use	Requires technical understanding	User-friendly and automated
Bulk Conversion	Not suitable for large volumes	Supports bulk email export
Folder Structure	May not preserve hierarchy	Preserves original structure
Time Consumption	Time-consuming	Fast and efficient
Risk of Data Loss	Moderate	Minimal
Selective Export	Not available	Available
Attachment Preservation	May be inconsistent	Fully preserved

Conclusion

In short, exporting Thunderbird emails to EML format is useful for backup, sharing, and migration purposes. While the manual method works for exporting a few emails, it becomes impractical for large mailboxes. For a fast, accurate, and hassle-free solution, using a professional Thunderbird backup tool is the most reliable approach. Additionally, this process to export Thunderbird Emails to EML ensures complete data preservation without any loss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can Thunderbird export emails to EML without add-ons?

Ans. Yes, Thunderbird allows exporting emails to EML format without using any add-ons. You can manually drag and drop selected emails from Thunderbird to a local folder on your system, and they will be saved automatically as EML files. However, this method is practical only for a limited number of emails.

Q2. How do I export multiple Thunderbird emails to EML at once?

Ans. You can export multiple Thunderbird emails to EML by selecting multiple emails within a folder and dragging them to a local folder. For exporting a large number of emails or entire folders at once, using a professional CloudMigration Thunderbird to EML converter tool is recommended.

Q3. Is it safe to export Thunderbird emails to EML?

Ans. Yes, exporting Thunderbird emails to EML is safe as long as the process is done correctly. Manual methods may involve some risk when handling large mailboxes. The professional Thunderbird Backup tool provides a secure and automated export with full data integrity.

Q4. Can I export Thunderbird emails to EML on Windows and macOS?

Ans. Yes, Thunderbird supports exporting emails to EML on both Windows and macOS systems. Manual drag-and-drop export works on both platforms, and the professional CloudMigration tool is also available for Windows and macOS users.

About The Author:

Adom James

I’m Adom james, a skilled content strategist with a focus on technical writing. With in-depth knowledge in Email Backup, Data Recovery, and Email Migration, I specialize in providing expert solutions and addressing technical challenges for both individuals and businesses, especially in the areas of Cloud Backup and seamless email transitions.