
Renting a PO box is a great way to have a secure and private mailing address. You can rent a PO box from a post office or a private mailbox company.
To rent a PO box, you'll typically need to provide some basic information, such as your name and contact details. This information will be used to create a unique PO box address for you.
A PO box address typically includes the post office or mailbox company's name, your box number, and the city and state where the PO box is located. For example, "123 Main St PO Box 456, Anytown, CA 12345".
The cost of renting a PO box can vary depending on the location and the size of the box you need.
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What Is a PO Box Address
A PO Box address is a special type of mailing address assigned to a post office box, which is a secure mailbox located inside a post office building.
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You can rent a PO Box at a post office and use it as your mailing address, but it's not a physical street address.
Some customers may choose to have a PO Box for added security and flexibility.
PO Boxes are usually locked and only accessible to the renter, making them a good option for sensitive or valuable items.
You can't deliver packages to a PO Box using a courier service like UPS or FedEx because these locations can cause problems for shipping guarantees and delivery.
Why Use a PO Box Address
Using a PO Box address can be a great option for individuals and businesses alike. You can ensure documents are kept confidential by reserving a PO Box.
A PO Box is convenient because you can collect mail when it's convenient for you, not when you're at home or in the office. This flexibility is especially helpful for business owners who have variable schedules.
Having a PO Box address also provides a safe and secure way of receiving mail. You can trust that your important documents will be protected from the elements and prying eyes.
Here are some reasons why businesses might choose to reserve a PO Box over a street address:
- To ensure documents are kept confidential
- To enable a business owner to collect mail when it is convenient to do so
- To have a safe and secure way of receiving mail
Once you make the change to a PO Box address, all your mail will be sent to your new address within one week. This means you can start using your PO Box address immediately.
Sending and Receiving Mail
When sending mail to a PO Box or street address, you need to use the correct format to ensure it reaches the right destination.
You should write the desired address on the first line and the secondary or alternate address on the second line. This way, the postal service knows where to deliver the mail first.
If the mail can't be delivered to your street address, it will be forwarded to the USPS PO Box, and you'll receive a notification that it's there.
To ensure mail is delivered to your preferred address, simply list the desired address first, followed by the secondary or alternate address.
In case you're not there to receive the mail, the postal service will send it to the PO Box, where you can collect it at your convenience.
Discover more: Po Box Street Address Format
Using a PO Box for Business
Using a PO Box for Business is a great option, and it's relatively easy to set up. You can rent a PO Box and choose the right option for your business.
One of the main reasons businesses choose to use a PO Box is to ensure documents are kept confidential. This is especially important for businesses that handle sensitive information.
You can expect all of your mail to be sent to your newly rented PO Box within one week after making the change permanent. This means you can immediately start addressing your mail to this new address when you sign up.
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Identify Purpose
To identify the purpose of using a PO Box for your business, consider how you'll be shipping your products. If you use a courier service like UPS or FedEx, you'll likely need a street address for delivery.
Choosing a PO Box over a street address can cause problems for shipping guarantees and delivery.
To determine the best option for your business, think about your shipping needs and whether a PO Box will work for you.
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Why Do You Need?

Having a PO Box address can be a game-changer for your business. A PO Box is suitable for you if you prefer a more private and secure mailing address.
You may need a PO Box address if you're a small business owner who doesn't have a physical storefront or office. This is because a PO Box allows you to receive mail and packages without revealing your home or business address to the public.
A PO Box is a great option if you're a freelancer or entrepreneur who works from home and wants to keep your personal and professional life separate. This is especially important if you're dealing with sensitive or confidential information.
You can also use a PO Box address if you're a business owner who needs to receive mail and packages frequently, but doesn't have the space or resources to store them at your physical location.
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How to Get UPS/FedEx to Deliver
Using a PO Box for Business requires some special considerations, especially when it comes to getting UPS and FedEx to deliver to your new address. Generally, FedEx does not deliver to PO Boxes for US addresses, but there are some exceptions.
However, there is a trick to get UPS or FedEx to deliver to a PO Box. You can use a different address format, which includes using the street address and number without the PO reference.
For example, if your PO Box address is "PO Box 123", you would use "505 Main Street #123" instead. This format should help you get your packages delivered to your PO Box.
It's worth noting that once you make the change to a PO Box address, all of your mail will be sent to your newly rented PO Box within one week.
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Using for Business: What You Need to Know
Renting a PO Box for your business can be a convenient and secure way to receive mail and packages. You can rent a PO Box at a post office or other authorized location.

To rent a PO Box, you'll need to choose the right option for your business. Consider the pros and cons of using a PO Box versus a street address, and think about your business needs and goals.
If you decide to rent a PO Box, make sure to address mail items and parcels correctly. To do this, write the recipient's first and last name on the first address line, followed by the company or organization name below it. Then, write "PO box" followed by the PO box number on the next line, without any punctuation.
You should always include your return address on the mail you send, in the upper left-hand corner of the package or envelope. This ensures that the mail can be returned to you if it's undeliverable.
Some organizations may provide both a street address and a PO Box address for deliveries. This can be useful as a backup if the street address cannot receive delivery for some reason.
Here are some reasons why a business might choose to reserve a PO Box over a street address:
- To ensure documents are kept confidential
- To enable a business owner to collect mail when it is convenient to do so
- To have a safe and secure way of receiving mail
By renting a PO Box, you can have more control over when and how you receive mail and packages. This can be especially useful for businesses that need to keep sensitive documents confidential.
Renting and Updating a PO Box

Renting and updating a PO box is a straightforward process that can be completed online or in-person. You can rent a PO box from a post office or a private mail service provider, and the cost varies depending on the location and size of the box.
To rent a PO box, you'll need to provide identification and pay the rental fee, which is usually a monthly or annual payment. The fee for a standard PO box is around $10 to $20 per month, but prices can vary depending on the location and services offered.
If you need to update your PO box address, you can do so by visiting the post office or mail service provider in person, or by filling out a change of address form online.
For another approach, see: Can I Send a Certified Mail to Po Box
How to Rent?
To rent a PO Box, you'll want to consider a few key factors. The location of your PO Box is a good place to start, but there are other important details to think about.
You'll need to evaluate which organization is best to rent the box from. This might depend on your business needs and budget. For example, you might consider the size of the box and the services offered by the provider.
Before renting a PO Box, ask yourself a few questions. What type of mail will arrive at your business? What's your budget for a new business mailbox? How easy will it be to pick up your physical mail? Will the mailbox offer a 24/7 mail pickup service? Are there any additional services you can take advantage of?
To sign up for a PO Box from the USPS, you'll need to choose a lease term and complete Form 1583. This is a one-page form to confirm your identity, and you'll need two forms of ID, one of which must be a photo ID.
For more insights, see: What Is Needed to Get a Po Box
Next Steps After Signing Up
Now that you've signed up for a PO Box address, it's time to make the most of it. You can enter your PO Box number in the street address field when making a change of address request online at USPS.com.

To ensure all your mail is sent to your new PO Box, it's advisable to permanently change your mailing address through the USPS's National Change of Address Program. This can be done online or in person at a post office using PS Form 3575.
Mail will be forwarded within 2-3 weeks, and you can track the progress of your new address request via USPS.com. This is a great way to stay on top of your mail and make sure it's not getting lost in the shuffle.
Here are some reasons why you might want to reserve a PO Box over a street address:
- To ensure documents are kept confidential
- To enable a business owner to collect mail when it is convenient to do so
- To have a safe and secure way of receiving mail
Once you make the change of your business address to a PO Box permanent, it guarantees that all of your mail will be sent to your newly rented PO Box within one week.
Formatting
Formatting a PO box address is crucial to ensure it reaches its destination correctly.
When writing a PO box address, omit any designations like BIN, CALLER, and more.
You can format a PO box address in various ways, but the most important thing is to follow the correct format.
To write a PO box address, you need to include the recipient's full name, company name if needed, PO box number, and city, state, and ZIP code.
A valid PO box address format starts with the words "PO Box", followed by the relevant box number, which is usually a 2-5 digit number.
The correct format for a PO box address is: [Recipient's Full Name] [Company Name (if needed)] [PO Box Number] [City, State, ZIP Code].
Here are the essential elements of a PO box address:
- Recipient's Full Name
- Company Name (if needed)
- PO Box Number
- City
- State
- ZIP Code
Cost and Shipping
Using a PO box address can be a cost-effective alternative to a physical mailbox, especially for businesses or individuals with limited space.
The cost of a PO box can vary depending on the location and size of the box, but it's often significantly cheaper than renting a physical mailbox.
In general, a PO box can cost anywhere from $5 to $50 per month, depending on the level of service and amenities.
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Cost Estimate

To get an idea of how much a PO box will cost, you can use the tool on the USPS website that provides a map to search for specific PO Box sizes based on your ZIP code.
The USPS website allows you to search for PO Box sizes ranging from Extra Small to Extra Large.
You can use this tool to estimate the cost of a PO box rental, making it easier to plan your shipping and mailing needs.
The PO Box rental cost will depend on the size of the box you choose, so it's a good idea to check the USPS website to get an accurate estimate.
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Shipping Simplified
Shipping to a PO Box is a straightforward process. Just follow the order of writing the address clearly on your package or letter.
You can easily write a PO box address by following a simple order: number, street, apartment or suite number, city, state, and zip code. Writing everything clearly is key.
If you're sending mail to someone's PO box but don't have all the information, you can use an address lookup to find their address details.
For another approach, see: Po Box Numbers
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you write an address for a PO Box?
To write an address for a PO Box, start by listing the recipient's name on the first line, followed by the PO box number on the next line. Then, add the city, state or province, and zip code on the following lines.
How to write PO Box address on application?
To write a PO Box address on an application, simply include the box number and post office name, without the street address. This straightforward format ensures accurate delivery of your mail to the correct PO Box.
How to set up a PO Box address?
To set up a PO Box address, apply online with a debit or credit card registered to your address. It takes up to 7 working days to complete the setup process.
Is a PO Box address a legal address?
A PO Box address is considered a valid mailing address, but its legal status may vary depending on the context and jurisdiction. It can be used for personal and business correspondence, but its acceptance as a permanent or official address may be limited.
What is the street addressing option for PO Box?
Street Addressing Service for PO Box allows your mail to be delivered to a physical street address, combining your PO Box number with the post office's street address
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