How to Create OLM File in Outlook for Mac: Complete Step-by-Step Tutorial (2026)

Sarabjeet Kaur | mac outlook olm outlook for mac outlook mac Software Technology | 5 minutes read | Modified on: 22-07-2026
create olm file in outlook mac

If you are looking for how to create OLM file in Outlook for Mac, this guide will help you understand the complete process in a simple way. An OLM file is an Outlook data file created by Microsoft Outlook for Mac that stores important mailbox data, including emails, contacts, calendars, and other items. These files are mainly used for backup purposes and can be accessed on Mac systems. In this blog, we will explain the reasons to create an OLM file and provide step-by-step methods to export Outlook Mac data into OLM format. We will also discuss how these files can be converted into other formats when required.

Reasons to Create OLM Files in Mac Outlook

There are several situations where creating an OLM file can be useful. Some of the common reasons include:

  • Email Backup: OLM files help users create a backup of their Outlook emails and other mailbox data to prevent data loss.
  • Easy Data Sharing: These files make it easier to share selected Outlook data with other users or transfer data between Mac systems.
  • Manage Mailbox Storage: Exporting emails into an OLM file helps users organize their mailbox and free up Outlook storage space.
  • Offline Access: Users can access their saved Outlook data even without an active internet connection.

How to Create OLM File in Outlook for Mac Manually?

Microsoft Outlook for Mac provides a built-in option to export mailbox data into an OLM file. The process is simple and does not require any additional software. Follow the below steps to create an OLM file:

  1. First, open Microsoft Outlook for Mac on your system.
  2. Click on the Tools option from the top menu.
  3. Select the Export option to start the export process.
  4. Choose the mailbox items you want to save, such as emails, contacts, or calendars.
  5. Click the Continue button to proceed.
  6. Select the location where you want to save the OLM file.
  7. Finally, click the Save button to export Outlook Mac data into an OLM file.

After completing these steps, your Outlook mailbox data will be saved successfully in the OLM file format.

Take the Next Step After OLM Creation – Easy OLM Conversion on Mac

After successfully creating an OLM file in Outlook Mac, you may need to convert it into another file format for better accessibility and data management. For this purpose, CubexSoft OLM Converter for Mac provides a reliable solution to convert OLM files into multiple formats without any complexity.

The software allows users to convert multiple OLM files at once while preserving the original folder structure and maintaining data accuracy. It supports bulk conversion of multiple OLM files at once. With its user-friendly interface, Mac users can easily export Outlook OLM data into different formats and access their emails on various email platforms.

Download OLM to PST Converter for Mac and perform a secure, quick, and efficient OLM conversion process while keeping your mailbox data safe.

Why Choose CubexSoft Mac OLM Converter Solution? Key Features Explained

To understand this tool better, let us quickly explore some of its key features:

  • Convert Outlook for Mac OLM files into multiple formats, including PST, MBOX, EML, MSG, HTML, PDF, and other file formats.
  • Supports migration of OLM files to popular email platforms such as Gmail, Mozilla Thunderbird, Office 365, and other email clients.
  • Allows users to convert multiple OLM files simultaneously with its batch conversion feature.
  • Maintains the original folder hierarchy, email formatting, attachments, and mailbox structure during the conversion process.
  • Provides accurate conversion of emails, contacts, calendars, tasks, and other Outlook Mac mailbox items.
  • Offers an easy-to-use interface that allows both technical and non-technical users to perform OLM conversion effortlessly.
  • Supports selective conversion by allowing users to choose specific folders or mailbox items as required.
  • Ensures secure conversion without modifying or damaging the original OLM files.
  • Provides a quick and efficient conversion process with advanced algorithms for better performance.
  • Compatible with different versions of macOS for smooth and reliable operation.

Common Myths and Facts About OLM Files

While working with OLM files, many users have different doubts and misconceptions about their usage and functionality. Let’s clear some of the most common myths with accurate facts.

Myth 1: OLM Files Only Store Emails

Fact: OLM files do not store only email messages. They can also contain other Outlook Mac mailbox items, including contacts, calendar entries, tasks, notes, and other important data.

Myth 2: An External Tool Is Required to Create OLM Files

Fact: Microsoft Outlook for Mac already provides a built-in Export option that allows users to create OLM files without installing any additional software.

Myth 3: OLM Files Can Be Opened Directly in Windows Outlook

Fact: OLM files are specifically created for Outlook on Mac and are not directly supported by Outlook for Windows. Users need to convert OLM files into a compatible format such as PST before accessing them in Windows Outlook.

Myth 4: Exporting Data to OLM Format Removes Emails from Outlook

Fact: Creating an OLM file does not delete or remove any mailbox data from Outlook. It simply creates a copy of Outlook Mac data, while the original emails and other items remain unchanged.

Myth 5: OLM Files Cannot Be Used for Backup

Fact: OLM files are commonly used as backup files for Outlook Mac users. They help save important mailbox data and allow users to restore or import the data whenever required.

Conclusion

This guide explained the simple method for how to create OLM file in Outlook for Mac using the manual export option. We also discussed OLM File Converter for Mac, which helps convert OLM files into different formats while preserving data accuracy. The free demo version allows users to convert up to 25 items from each selected folder to evaluate the software before purchase

Frequently Asked Questions About Creating OLM Files in Outlook for Mac

1. What are OLM files in Outlook for Mac?

OLM files are Outlook Mac data files that store emails, contacts, calendars, notes, and tasks for backup and migration purposes.

2. How to create OLM file in Outlook for Mac?

Open Outlook for Mac, go to Tools > Export, select the mailbox items, choose the save location, and click Save to create an OLM file.

3. Can OLM files be opened in Windows Outlook?

No, OLM files are not directly supported by Windows Outlook. They need to be converted into PST format for Windows compatibility.

4. Can I create an OLM file for selected folders only?

Yes, Outlook for Mac allows users to select specific mailbox folders or items during the export process.

5. Why do users need an OLM Migrator after creating OLM files?

An OLM MigratorTool helps users convert OLM files into different formats and access Outlook Mac data on other email platforms.

6. Is creating OLM files safe

Yes, creating an OLM file only creates a copy of Outlook data and does not affect the original mailbox items.