Import .pst file to outlook?

[Naz]

I've been having problems w/my computer. So of course; I'll reformat.
Anyway, I exported the .pst file from Outlook (File, export, bla, bla, bla) and saved to external hard drive along w/all the other stuff I wanted to save. However, when I go to File Import bla bla bla It won't let me import. This is what the paper clip tells me " backup.pst is not compatible with this version of the personal folders information service. contact you admin.)
So here I am contacting my admins LOL.
Is there anything I can do. It appears I'm doing everything right according to the help pages(internet) I've been reading.

I'm using Microsoft Outlook 2002 the very same program that was installed on it before that I exported from.

Thanks for any direction!!
Naz

[RamonGTP]

It's possible the file got corrupted somehow. Try running the scanpst utility on it. Be sure to back it up first.