How to Fix Errors When Archiving Emails in Outlook

Key Notes

  • Ensure your AutoArchive settings are configured properly.
  • Run Outlook in Safe Mode to identify possible add-in conflicts.
  • Repair any corrupted PST files using the built-in tool.

Resolving ‘Errors Occurred While Archiving’ Messages in Outlook

If you’re facing the “Errors occurred while archiving in Outlook” message, you’re not alone. This guide provides step-by-step solutions to help you manage your mailbox efficiently.

Solutions to Fix the Archiving Errors

Step 1: Review AutoArchive Settings

Make sure your AutoArchive settings are properly configured by following these steps:

  • Open Outlook and click on File > Options.
  • Select the Advanced tab, then find the AutoArchive section.
  • Click the AutoArchive Settings button.
  • Check each configuration and ensure settings for folders are correct.
  • Click OK to save your changes.

Pro Tip: Adjust the AutoArchive settings for specific folders that are problematic.

Step 2: Launch Outlook in Safe Mode

To check if a problematic add-in is causing the issue, start Outlook in Safe Mode:

  • Close Outlook, then press Win + R.
  • Type outlook.exe /safe into the Open box.

If the archiving works in this mode, consider disabling suspicious add-ins in the Outlook options.

Step 3: Repair the Outlook Archive PST File

Corruption in your PST file may be the cause of the archiving errors. Repair it using the Inbox Repair (ScanPST.exe) tool:

Find the location of your archive file via File > Info > Account Settings, then:

  • Close Outlook.
  • Open File Explorer and navigate to your Office installation directory.
  • Run ScanPST.exe and follow the prompts to repair your file.

After the process finishes, restart Outlook to see if the error persists.

Step 4: Generate a New Data File

Creating a new data file can help eliminate archiving errors. Here’s how to do that:

  • Open Outlook, and navigate to File > Account Settings > Account Settings.
  • Go to the Data Files tab and click Add.
  • Specify the filename and click OK.
  • Try archiving emails to this new data file.

Step 5: Apply Registry Modification

As a final measure, modify the registry to potentially resolve the issue:

  • Close Outlook, then press Win + R and enter regedit.
  • Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\16.0\Outlook\Preferences.
  • Right-click and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, naming it ArchiveIgnoreLastModifiedTime.
  • Set its value to 1 and restart Outlook.

Ensure to backup your registry prior to making changes for safety.

Summary

This guide provides practical solutions for Outlook users encountering archiving errors. By checking settings, repairing files, and modifying configurations, users can restore proper functioning of their archiving features.

Conclusion

Addressing archiving errors in Outlook is essential for efficient email management. By following the provided methods, users can prevent future issues and keep their mailboxes organized.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What should I do if the error persists?

If issues continue, consider repairing or reinstalling Outlook or consulting your IT administrator for assistance.

Can I recover deleted archiving items?

Items deleted during archiving may be recoverable from the Deleted Items folder until purged from Outlook.