If you’re looking for a secure and convenient way to receive your mail, a post office box (PO Box) can be an excellent solution.
Whether you’re running a small business, traveling frequently, or just seeking an additional mailing address for privacy reasons, a PO Box offers a range of benefits.
However, before you decide to rent one, it’s essential to understand the cost involved. The monthly fee for a post office box can vary depending on various factors, such as location, size, and rental duration.
Let’s explore how much a post office box typically costs per month and what factors can influence the price.
What Is A PO Box?
A PO Box is a secure, numbered box located at the Post Office where your mail is kept until you collect it.
How Much Does a Post Office Box Cost A Month?
If you’ve ever found yourself drowning in a sea of mail at your doorstep, it might be time to consider the convenience of a Post Office Box (PO Box).
This secure alternative to traditional mail delivery offers not only peace of mind but also a clutter-free home. Picture this: no more rifling through stacks of envelopes and packages. But the question on your mind is likely, “What’s the price tag for this organized oasis?”
The cost of a Post Office Box varies depending on several factors, including the box’s size and the post office’s location. It’s like choosing a rental unit—bigger spaces are slightly cheaper.
Small boxes might be sufficient for basic mail needs, while larger boxes offer more room for packages and deliveries. Prices can range from around $10 to $40 per month, with additional fees for key deposits and extended rental periods.
Purchasing a new PO Box at a post office facility can cost as little as $4.67 per month, depending on your location.
The table below outlines the USPS PO Box price ranges:
| SIZE | Starting Price |
| Extrs Small | $4.67/mo* |
| Small | $6.00/mo* |
| Medium | $9.00/mo* |
| Large | $13.33/mo* |
| Extra Large | $23.67/mo* |
Before you get swept away in the allure of an organized mailbox, it’s wise to check with your local post office for specific pricing in your area.
[Hint] Some post offices might offer discounts for longer rental terms or promotions during certain times of the year.
Consider your mailing habits and the convenience of having a separate delivery address. While the cost of a Post Office Box might seem like an added expense, it’s an investment in streamlining mail management and safeguarding sensitive documents.
So, if you’re ready to bid farewell to the mailbox shuffle and embrace a clutter-free approach, explore the cost of a Post Office Box. It’s not just about decluttering your space—it’s about embracing an organized and secure mailbox solution tailored to your needs.
Factors That Affect P.O. Box Cost
Renting a P.O. Box (Post Office Box) is a convenient and secure way to receive mail and packages. However, the cost of renting a P.O. Box can vary depending on several factors. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision about the type and size of P.O. Box that best suits your needs.
PO Box Size
One of the main factors affecting the cost of a PO Box is its size. PO Boxes come in different sizes to accommodate different amounts of mail.
In general, the larger the PO Box, the higher the rental fee. Available in a variety of sizes, from small boxes ideal for letters and documents to larger boxes capable of holding parcels or oversized mail.
Below are details on box sizes provided by the US Postal Service:
| Box type | Size | What Can It Hold? |
| Extrs Small | 3″ x 5.5″ | 10 – 15 letters and 3 rolled magazines |
| Small | 5″ x 5.5″ | 15+ letters, 5 rolled magazines, or 1 small U.S. Priority Mail Flat Rate box |
| Medium | 5.5″ x 11″ | Letters, large envelopes, stacked magazines, or 2 small U.S. Priority Mail Flat Rate box |
| Large | 11″ X 11″ | Letters, stacked magazines, and small and medium U.S. Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes |
| Extra large | 12″ X 22.5″ | Letters, stacked magazines, multiple small and medium U.S. Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes |
If you receive a package that doesn’t fit in your box, you will receive a slip to take to the counter for pickup. It’s easy to stand in line for counter service, but you can avoid the hassle by preparing a box large enough to ship regular packages.
Location
The geographical location of the post office where the P.O.
Box is situated can impact its cost. Post offices located in areas with higher rent or living costs may charge more for P.O. Box rentals compared to those in less expensive regions. Urban areas or popular neighborhoods may have higher rental rates due to increased demand.
Typical PO Box Fees:
USPS PO Box rates vary based on the factors we discuss. But here’s the general range you can expect:
● Extra Small: $4.67 to $28.67 per month
● Small: $6.00 to $38.33 per month
● Medium: $9.00 to $67 per month
● Large Size: $13.33 to $76.67 per month
● King Size: $23.67 – $115 per month
Rental Duration
How long you lease a PO Box affects its cost.
Post offices often offer lease options for different terms, such as three months, six months, or a year. In general, longer lease terms offer lower average monthly fees compared to short-term leases.
The U.S. Postal Service leases boxes for three, six, or twelve months at a time. If you know ahead of time that you will be using the box for a longer period of time, it will be cheaper to opt for a longer lease term. If you link a credit card for automatic payment, you will be automatically charged for renewals.
Additional Services
Post offices may offer additional services or features that may affect the cost of a PO Box.
For example, some post offices offer enhanced security measures, such as 24/7 access to post office boxes, which may be available for an additional fee. Other services such as mail forwarding, package pickup, or email notification of incoming mail may also affect rental costs.
If you lose your key or need a duplicate key, you will pay $9. If you need to replace the lock, there is a $25 fee. Finally, if you renew your box late, you will pay a $25 fee. the
It’s not all bad when it comes to costs. USPS offers Premium PO Box service to every PO Box customer at no additional charge. Some benefits include:
● Real Street Address: Allows real street addresses for packages from any sender. That way, you don’t have to put your PO Box number there. Instead, you will have an address that corresponds to a piece of real estate, for a professional look and to protect your privacy. the
● Easy Access: Some locations offer extended lobby access, which may even include 24-hour access.
● Signatures on file: The Post Office will keep your signature on file, which means you can skip the process of going to the counter to sign some mail. the
● No Deposit is required: you will receive two free keys. If you need more, you must pay a $5 deposit per key. the
When choosing a PO Box, evaluate your requirements and consider the value of these additional services.
How to Get A PO Box (4 Steps)
To open your PO Box online:
Step 1: Search for Post Office locations near you by using the search bar under “Find a PO Box Near You.”
Step 2: Choose a Post Office location and select your desired PO Box size and payment period.
Step 3: Complete the online application form, accept the Terms & Conditions, enter your billing and payment information, and review and submit your application to reserve your PO Box.
Step 4: Print your completed form and bring it to the Post Office counter where your box is located, along with 2 forms of acceptable U.S. identification (within 30 days of submitting your online application). After the retail associate verifies your identity, you’ll get your PO Box keys.
To apply for a PO Box in person at a Post Office:
Step 1: Optional Time-Saving Tip: If you have a printer, download “PS Form 1093, Application for Post Office Box Service,” Application for Post Office Box Service, fill it out, then print it out (note: if you apply for a PO Box online, this form is automatically generated). Bring the completed form with you to the Post Office.
Step 2: Bring your payment and 2 forms of acceptable U.S. identification to the Post Office and tell the retail associate at the counter that you’d like to apply for a PO Box.
How Frequently Do I Have to Pay for My PO Box?
When it comes to paying for your PO Box, you can choose from three payment term options: 3 months, 6 months, or 12 months. Opting for a 3-month payment term means you’ll be automatically enrolled in renewals without the option to opt out. On the other hand, if you select a 6-month or 12-month period, you have the choice to opt out of automatic renewals.
How Do I Close a PO Box If I Move?
You can close a PO Box by going to Manage PO Box, signing in to your account, and clicking the Close/Request Refund link next to the box.
You can also request a PO Box be closed by informing the retail associate at the Post Office where your box is located. Once a box is closed, be sure to submit a Change of Address (COA) form.
Depending on where you close your box, the form will be provided online on your close/refund confirmation page or by the retail associate at the Post Office. Your mail can be forwarded to your new address for up to one year.
FAQS About PO Box Cost
Are PO Box rental fees eligible for a refund?
You pay for a full rental period at the beginning; however, if you decide to close your box, you’ll get a partial refund depending on how long you’ve had the box. See full details on refunds.
What options do I have for making a payment on my PO Box?
You have 4 different options for making a PO Box payment:
● Online with a credit or debit card. Go to the PO Boxes Online application and click “Renew” to go to the “Manage PO Box” page. Then, click “Renew PO Box” to make a one-time payment. This feature is available 30 days before your next payment is due. Also note, when paying with a credit or debit card, you can store up to 3 credit or debit cards safely and securely in our system.
● Pay at a self-service kiosk (SSK): You can find an SSK using Find USPS Locations.
● Pay by mail: Send a check or money order payable to “U.S. Postal Service” to the Postmaster where your PO Box is located. (Include your PO Box number on the memo line of the check.)
● Pay in person: Pay at the Post Office where your PO Box is located using cash, check, credit card, or debit card.
Conclusion
In summary, the cost of leasing a PO Box can vary based on a variety of factors, including box size, location, lease term, additional services, and the specific postal service provider. By considering your specific needs and budget, you can make an informed decision and choose the PO Box rental plan that best suits your requirements.
