![Diane Poremsky [Outlook MVP]](http://www.outlook-tips.net/images/2014/MVP_BlueOnly.png)
When you use AutoArchive, it archives items based on the modified date, not the received date. Copying and Importing will often change the last modified date, resulting in unexpected results when you attempt to archive items.
To confirm the modified dates are the problem when archive fails, add the Modified Date field to your view, Right click on the field names in the folder and choose Field Chooser. Select Date/Time fields from the dropdown and drag Modified to the row of field names. If you're using Outlook 2003 with the default multiple row list view, choose Custom and add Modified field from the Fields button.
Note: Outlook 2010 and Outlook 2007 can be configured to archive on the Received date.
Published September 10, 2003. Last updated on December 27, 2013.
Hello Diane
How about Outlook 2013, can I avoid archiving unread messages?
Thanks
Elie
No, Outlook 2013 works the same as it did in older versions - you can't tell it to skip unread messages.
Where can I find the field names to select the Field Chooser?
I recently upgraded to Outlook 2010.
In previous versions of Outlook it was not possible to avoid archiving UNREAD messages as I was explained by you in the past.
Can Outlook 2010 be configured so it does not archive unread messages?
Thanks
Elie
Unfortunately, nothing has changed with AutoArchive (well, almost nothing). You could set the do not archive flag but then you'd need to remove it after reading the item.
Outlook 2007 and Outlook 2010 can be configured to use the Received or created date when archiving, not the modified date.