Exported PST File Empty Issue: Reasons and Solutions 2026

Common Reasons Why PST File Shows No Data After Export

• One of the most common reasons is selecting the wrong folders during export. If you don’t choose the correct mailbox or forget to include subfolders, the PST file may appear empty.
• Outlook allows you to apply filters while exporting. If filters are set (intentionally or accidentally), only specific emails get exported, leaving the file empty.
• If the export process is interrupted due to a system shutdown, crash, or network issue, the PST file may be created, but without data.
• Sometimes emails are stored in archive folders or hidden views, which may not be included in export.

How to Fix Exported PST File Empty Issue?

It’s important to understand that most PST export issues can be resolved with simple checks and adjustments. These methods are easy to follow and don’t require any technical expertise. Let’s go through them one by one to help you recover your missing data.

Method 01: Export the Entire Mailbox Properly

• Open Outlook and click on File.
• Choose Open & Export, then click Import/Export.
• Select Export to a file and click Next.
• Choose Outlook Data File (.pst) and proceed.
• Now, select your email account name at the top (not just Inbox).
• Make sure to tick Include subfolders.
• Choose a location and finish the process.

Method 02: Check Filters to Resolve Empty Folders in Exported Outlook PST

• During the export process, click on the Filter button.
• Review all tabs carefully (Messages, More Choices, and Advanced).
• Remove any conditions or filters applied.
• Click OK and continue exporting.

Method 03: PST Export Completed but No Emails Showing

If emails are not visible in Outlook, they won’t be exported. You can easily reset Outlook View to Default Settings:

• Go to the View tab in Outlook.
• Click on Change View.
• Select Compact or Single View.
• Also, check if any sorting or grouping is hiding emails.

Method 04: Repair Outlook Data File Before Export

If your Outlook data file has minor issues, the export may fail silently.

• Firstly, close Outlook.
• Search for ScanPST.exe on your system.
• Open the tool and browse your PST or OST file.
• Click Start and let it scan.
• If errors are found, click Repair.

Limitations of Manual Fixes

• Manual steps can be time-consuming and require careful execution.
• They may not recover data from damaged or inaccessible PST files.
• There is no preview option to verify recovered data.
• Large PST files often fail during export or repair.
• Also, technical errors may go unnoticed, leading to data loss.

Professional Solution to Fix Exported PST File Empty Issue

If you’ve tried all manual methods and still face the issue, using a professional tool becomes the safest option. The DRS Softech PST Recovery Tool is designed to repair corrupt Outlook PST Files or those that are incomplete after export. This tool performs a deep scan of the PST file and recovers all mailbox items without altering the original data. Designed with a simple interface, which means every user can easily use it. No technical skill is required. Additionally, it is highly compatible with all Windows and Mac versions.

How to Repair Corrupt/Damaged Outlook PST Files?

1. Download and install the DRS Softech PST Repair Tool.
2. Click on Open to add your corrupted PST files.
3. Choose the Recovery Modes & other options. Click OK.
4. Then, preview all the recovered PST files. Click Save.
5. Lastly, choose the saving formats as per your needs.

How Batch Recovery Helps Enterprises?

• Recovers emails, contacts, calendars, and attachments completely.
• Supports recovery from severely corrupted PST files.
• Maintains original folder hierarchy and data integrity.
• Provides a preview before saving recovered data.
• Tested on Outlook 2016, 2019, and Microsoft 365 environments.
• Options to fix “Outlook Fails to Open in Safe Mode” and several other errors.

How to Avoid This Problem in the Future?

• Always do a test open of the PST right after exporting — before you close the original account.
• Export in smaller batches (by year or folder) instead of one giant export.
• Keep Outlook fully updated to avoid known bugs in the export wizard.
• Moreover, store PST backups in at least two locations.

Conclusion

The Exported PST File Empty Issue can be hectic when you’re expecting important data in your backup. However, in most cases, the problem is caused by simple mistakes like incorrect export settings, filters, or incomplete sync. By following the manual methods discussed above, you can easily resolve the issue. And if those methods don’t work, using a professional solution ensures complete recovery without any hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions