If you have exported the vCard files from another application or if someone has shared their list of VCF contacts here’s how to import contacts into Outlook from vCard file. A vCard (also called VCF file) contains the contact information such as personal details, business details, phone numbers, etc. A VCF card is a standard contact information card used by businesses and professionals worldwide to share their communication details to expand their work scope.
“How can I migrate the VCF contact files into my Outlook account that my colleague had shared with me? Is it possible to import thousands of contacts in a single attempt?”
You can perform this procedure in two different ways. One is manual and another one is an automated method. In the upcoming section of this article, we will discuss both of these methodologies.
Smart Way to Import Contacts into Outlook from vCard File
MS Outlook does not offer the facility to import multiple VCF files in one go. You have to import a single vCard file at a time. While it is still practical to import a few vCards manually but if you are someone with hundreds of contact files, it is frustrating to migrate them in a single attempt. Therefore, to import multiple vCard files to Outlook contacts, you are bound to use software to reduce your burden.
Features of PCVITA vCard Importer Tool:
- Import multiple contacts in a single attempt.
- No limitations on the number of files you import.
- Provides a free version to help you complete the job.
- Imports all details and attributes of the contacts.
- Supports vCard files from various devices & applications.
- Compatible with all vCard versions i.e., 2.1, 3.0, 4.0.
- All versions of MS Outlook can be used to import the files.
- Can save the contacts in an existing Outlook contact file.
Steps to Import Contacts into Outlook from vCard File
1. Download, install and run the PCVITA vCard Importer tool. Click on Add File or Add Folder to load VCF files respectively.
2. Next, you will be provided a preview of your contacts. This preview will show the entire contact details and all attributes. Choose the contacts you want to import into Outlook and click on Export.
3. Then, you can decide the destination where you would like to import the file in. You can transfer it to an existing Outlook PST data file, or create a new file. Also, you can import it in the default MS Outlook profile.
4. After you provide the destination, click on the Export button. The process to migrate the contacts will begin.
You have now created PST files out of your vCard contact files. PST files are the data files that are exclusive to Outlook. They are very well compatible with the Outlook application and can be imported in bulk. You are now required to import these PST files by following the below-given steps:
- Run Outlook and click on File on the top left corner.
- Tap on the Open & Export option > Import/Export option.
- Then, choose Import from another program or file.
- Select the option of Outlook data file (.pst) & click on Next.
- After that, browse the PST file you need to import.
The process is complete. You can also perform this method manually. Learn how:
Manually Import Contacts into Outlook from vCard File
As already stated if you have many VCF files, you will not be able to import them all in one go. You will be required to migrate them all separately and follow the complete procedure repeatedly for every individual file. Although, you can choose to drag and drop the file instead of using the inbuilt wizard present in the Outlook application. To import contacts into Outlook from vCard file manually, follow these steps:
- Run Outlook and click on File in the top left corner.
- Tap on Open & Export > Import from another program or file.
- Select the vCard (VCF) file option and click on Next.
- Browse the location to save the file & choose if you want duplicates.
- Finally, choose the mailbox to migrate the contacts into.
- Click on the Finish button to begin the process.
Limitations of the Manual Method
Like any other manual facility, this one also shares some limitations and drawbacks. It is not allowed by the Outlook application to import vCard files in bulk. Additionally, mapping all attributes of the contacts manually is not worth the time and effort. Hence, quite many users skip the idea to manually import contacts into Outlook from vCard file owing to all of the mentioned demerits.
Also Read: Save Copy of Outlook Contacts Using Simple Tips
Conclusion
In this blog, you learned about all possible methods to import contacts into Outlook from vCard file. Considering all the negative points of the manual scheme, we have provided an automated expert utility for you to help you perform the task diligently. Migrating or converting contacts can pose serious threats to their integrity, hence you can swiftly transfer the contact list using the mentioned methods.