In 2020, there were 159.9 million individual mailboxes, PO boxes, and other delivery points, and this number typically grows by 1 million or more per year. Needless to say, there’s a huge and undying demand for reliable ways to receive mail, and it’s a good thing that we have choices.
You might already have a traditional mailbox to use, but are looking for something different. You’ve heard of PO boxes, but don’t know what they are or how they work.
So what are PO boxes and how do PO boxes work? Keep reading to find out.
What’s a PO Box?
“PO” stands for “post office,” so a PO box is a post office box. These are secure mailboxes located within a post office where both individuals and businesses can receive mail and packages.
There are rows upon rows of these mailboxes and each person gets a key to unlock and lock their own box.
PO boxes are attractive to people since they provide a reliable and more private alternative to home delivery. And typically, they’re affordable too.
How Do PO Boxes Work?
PO boxes act as your mailing address. So if you want to have things sent there, you’d put your name down, plus the PO box address. Typically, it starts with “PO Box XXXX,” followed by your city, state, and zip code.
You and/or authorized individuals can check and pick up mail from the box at your convenience. Most post offices have 24/7 access so you don’t have to wait for their normal operating hours.
The post office will handle regular mail, including letters, magazines, and small packages. If a package is too large for your box, they may hold it and leave a notification slip in your box. You can then collect it from the front desk.
How to Get a PO Box
To get a PO box, you’ll have to apply for one. You can do this either online or in person at your local post office. Either way, you’ll need to provide two forms of identification.
PO boxes come in various sizes, ranging from small (for letters and small parcels) to extra-large (for larger packages). Whichever you choose, you’ll rent on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis, which you’ll select on your application. You can then renew periodically either online or at the post office.
Now you may be thinking, “How much is a PO box?” Well, that depends on the size of the box and location. For example, some companies may charge as little as $4 per month for an extra-small PO box, while some may charge as much as $120 per month for an extra-large one.
After the post office has processed your application, you’ll receive a key or combination code to access your box. Expect to pay a refundable deposit for your keys; if you lose them, you’ll be charged for the replacements.
Get a Virtual Mailbox Instead
A virtual mailbox (or virtual PO box) can be a much better option than a PO box. You won’t have to physically deal with mail unless you want to, which frees you up to be anywhere in the world, whenever you want.
How do virtual PO boxes work? First, you sign up for an account, such as with Business Anywhere. You choose your plan and the location you want your virtual mailbox (which gives you a real physical address), then pay for your subscription.
Next, fill out and upload a postal authorization form, which is required by law for us to receive your mail and packages. It’ll have to be notarized, but you won’t be inconvenienced, as we have an online notary service too.
After we’ve sorted everything out, we’ll let you know and then you can start using our intuitive dashboard. You can also start sending things our way, which we’ll scan and upload, discarding the junk mail if you want.
Log onto the dashboard and let us know if you want us to destroy or forward your mail. This includes your packages as well!
Because we can send your mail anywhere, you don’t have to stay in one place very long. As long as you have an internet connection, you’ll be able to see what’s been sent to you.
Get a Virtual Mailbox With Us
Now you know the answer to the question, “How do PO boxes work?”
While they have their conveniences, PO boxes do have significant drawbacks. Not only are the addresses not very professional, but there are certain things you can’t use PO boxes for.
Instead, use a virtual mailbox. You’ll have a better image with one, and you won’t be tied to one location either. You’ll have the freedom to travel anywhere you want!
Sign up with Business Anywhere now to get a virtual mailbox. If you also need to set up a business, we offer free business registration services too.
