
A PO Box, also known as a post office box, is a mailbox that you can rent at a post office. You can use it to receive mail and packages without needing a home or business address.
PO Boxes are usually located inside a post office, where mail and packages can be delivered to a specific box number. This is a secure way to receive mail and packages without having to be present.
You can rent a PO Box for a monthly fee, which varies depending on the post office and the size of the box. For example, a small PO Box might cost $10 per month, while a larger one might cost $30.
Having a PO Box can be especially useful if you're a business owner, as it keeps your business address private and helps you keep your personal and business life separate.
For another approach, see: Po Box Canada
What is a PO Box?
A PO Box is a mailbox that is rented from a post office, allowing you to receive mail and packages at a physical location, separate from your home or business address.
The post office assigns a unique PO Box number to each rented box, which is used to identify the box and direct mail to it. You can choose from a variety of PO Box sizes to fit your needs, ranging from small to large.
You can rent a PO Box for a monthly fee, which varies depending on the size and location of the box. In some cases, you may also need to pay for additional services, such as mail forwarding or package holding.
The PO Box is usually located within the post office building, and you'll need to visit the post office to collect your mail and packages. Some post offices may also offer 24/7 access to PO Boxes, but this is not always the case.
You can use a PO Box for personal or business purposes, and it's a great option if you need to keep your home or business address private. Many people use PO Boxes for online shopping, receiving packages, and sending mail.
Expand your knowledge: Wine Storage Boxes Cardboard
Benefits and Uses
A PO box is a great way to have a secure and private mailing address. You can use it to receive mail and packages without having to give out your home address.
One of the main benefits of having a PO box is that it helps protect your personal information. This is especially important if you're selling items online or receiving packages with sensitive contents.
You can also use a PO box to receive mail and packages from online shopping, making it a convenient option for online shoppers.
Readers also liked: Po Box Washington
Who Benefits from a PO Box?
If you're thinking of getting a PO box, you're probably wondering who benefits from having one. Companies benefit from using a PO box to receive their mail in an organized manner.
Shared mailboxes can be a hassle, but a PO box offers a convenient solution for individuals who share a mailbox with family or others. Private operators also appreciate the added security and privacy a PO box provides.
For travelers, a PO box is a great way to receive mail while on the go. You can have your mail delivered to a fixed address, making it easy to stay on top of your correspondence.
Small businesses, especially startups or side gigs, can also benefit from a PO box. It gives them a professional address that can be used on business cards, websites, and other marketing materials.
Here are some key groups that benefit from using a PO box:
- Companies: receive mail in an organized manner
- Shared Mailbox users: receive mail promptly and conveniently
- Private Operators: enjoy added security and privacy
- Travelers: receive mail while on the go
- Small Businesses: obtain a professional address
Sending Mail to a PO Box
Sending mail to a PO box is a straightforward process. To do it correctly, you'll need to know the target audience's name and/or last name, as well as their city, state, and zip code.
The address of the PO box itself is crucial. It's usually a number, 1-5 digits long, and should be addressed as "P.O. Box #####". This is the standard format for mailing to a PO box.

Here's a breakdown of the essential information you'll need to include on the mailing label:
- Target Audience: First name and/or last name of who you are sending the mail to
- Address: City, state, and zip code
- Address the P.O. Box: P.O. boxes usually have a number, 1-5 digits long; Address the P.O. box as “P.O. Box #####”
Security and Access
To secure your mail, you can rent a Post Office Box (PO Box) at a Post Office facility. You can choose a PO Box online and reserve it for use.
The application process is straightforward: you need to apply online, find a PO Box near you, and pay for it. Once you've completed the online application, you can pick up your keys in person at the Post Office where your box is located.
You'll need to bring two forms of ID to the Post Office to get your keys. This ensures that only you can access your PO Box.
You can pick up your keys at your convenience, and the Post Office has flexible hours for you to check your PO Box on your schedule.
Key Features and Options
A PO box is a convenient and secure way to receive mail and packages, and it offers several key features and options.
You can rent a PO box for a monthly fee, which varies depending on the location and size of the box.
Some PO boxes come with additional features like 24/7 access, security cameras, and package holding services.
One of the biggest advantages of a PO box is that it keeps your home address private, which can be a major plus for those who receive a lot of junk mail or want to keep their personal life separate from their business.
PO Box Sizes
PO Box sizes are available in various options to suit your needs. The smallest size is XS-Size 1, which measures 3 inches by 5.5 inches and starts at $4.83 a month.
You can choose from five different sizes, depending on the type of mail and packages you receive. XS-Size 1 is the smallest option, while XL-Size 5 is the largest, measuring 12 inches by 22.5 inches and starting at $24.00 a month.
The cost of a PO Box varies by size, with XS-Size 1 starting at $4.83 a month and XL-Size 5 starting at $24.00 a month.
Here are the PO Box size options available:
Virtual Office Key Differences
Virtual offices or mailboxes offer a significant advantage over traditional P.O. Boxes in terms of mail management.
A virtual office allows your business mail to be scanned, uploaded to the internet, and kept on record without anyone on your team physically touching it, saving you a huge amount of time.
This centralized online location enables you to track all your mail in one place, making it easier to stay organized and on top of your correspondence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a postal box?
To rent a PO Box, apply online and reserve a box at a Post Office near you, then pick up your keys in person with a completed application and 2 forms of ID. Get started by visiting your local Post Office to find and reserve your ideal mailbox.
What is the difference between a mailbox and a post box?
In British English, a post box is a specific type of mailbox, while in American English, the terms are often used interchangeably. However, a post box typically refers to a freestanding box, whereas a mailbox is often mounted on a wall or a building.
Is PO Box the same as zip code?
A PO Box address and a zip code are not always the same, with the first five digits sometimes matching but the last four digits (Zip + 4) always being different. Learn more about the unique characteristics of PO Box addresses and zip codes.
What mail cannot be delivered to a PO Box?
Mail that can't be sent to a PO Box includes packages from private carriers and oversized parcels, as well as items requiring a physical address for delivery confirmation
Can you use a PO Box as a legal address?
A PO Box can be used as a legal address in some situations, but it's not universally accepted and requirements vary depending on the entity. Check the specific requirements before using a PO Box as a legal address.
Featured Images: pexels.com