A post office (PO) box is a great way to have your mail delivered to a secure location, especially if you don't have a physical address or if you want to keep your home address private. PO boxes are available at most post offices, and the cost varies depending on the size of the box and the length of the rental period.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at how much a PO box costs, what factors affect the price, and how to choose the right size box for your needs.
The cost of a PO box varies depending on several factors, including the size of the box, the length of the rental period, and the location of the post office.
How Much is a PO Box
Cost varies based on factors.
- Size of the box
- Length of rental period
- Location of post office
- Additional services
- Street address vs. PO box
- USPS vs. private provider
- Discounts available
- Convenience and security
Consider your needs and budget.
Size of the Box
The size of the PO box is one of the most important factors that affects the cost. PO boxes come in a variety of sizes, from small boxes that can hold just a few letters to large boxes that can accommodate packages and parcels. The larger the box, the more it will cost to rent.
When choosing a PO box size, it's important to consider your needs. If you only receive a small amount of mail, a small or medium-sized box may be sufficient. However, if you receive a lot of mail, or if you want to be able to receive packages and parcels, you may need a larger box.
Here is a general guide to PO box sizes and prices:
- Small: This size is typically suitable for individuals who receive a small amount of mail, such as letters and bills. The average cost of a small PO box is around $15-$20 per year.
- Medium: This size is a good option for individuals or small businesses who receive a moderate amount of mail, including some packages and parcels. The average cost of a medium PO box is around $20-$30 per year.
- Large: This size is ideal for businesses or individuals who receive a large volume of mail, including packages and parcels. The average cost of a large PO box is around $30-$40 per year.
It's important to note that prices may vary depending on the location of the post office and other factors. It's always a good idea to contact your local post office to inquire about pricing and availability.
Choosing the right size PO box can help you save money and ensure that you have enough space for all of your mail.
Length of Rental Period
The length of the rental period is another important factor that affects the cost of a PO box. PO boxes can be rented for periods ranging from three months to one year. The longer the rental period, the lower the monthly cost will be.
For example, if you rent a small PO box for three months, you may pay around $18 per month. However, if you rent the same box for one year, you may pay around $15 per month. This is because the post office offers a discount for longer rental periods.
Here is a general guide to PO box rental periods and prices:
- Three months: This is the shortest rental period available. It is a good option if you need a PO box for a short period of time, such as during a move or renovation.
- Six months: This is a popular rental period for individuals and small businesses. It offers a good balance between cost and convenience.
- One year: This is the longest rental period available. It offers the lowest monthly cost and is the best option for individuals and businesses who need a PO box for an extended period of time.
It's important to note that some post offices may offer additional rental periods or discounts. It's always a good idea to contact your local post office to inquire about pricing and availability.
Choosing the right rental period can help you save money and ensure that you have access to your PO box for the amount of time you need.
Location of Post Office
The location of the post office can also affect the cost of a PO box. PO boxes in urban areas are typically more expensive than PO boxes in rural areas. This is because there is more demand for PO boxes in urban areas.
- Urban areas: PO boxes in urban areas are typically more expensive than PO boxes in rural areas. This is because there is more demand for PO boxes in urban areas. The average cost of a PO box in an urban area is around $20-$30 per year.
- Rural areas: PO boxes in rural areas are typically less expensive than PO boxes in urban areas. This is because there is less demand for PO boxes in rural areas. The average cost of a PO box in a rural area is around $15-$25 per year.
- Suburban areas: PO boxes in suburban areas are typically priced somewhere between PO boxes in urban and rural areas. The average cost of a PO box in a suburban area is around $18-$28 per year.
- Remote areas: PO boxes in remote areas may be more expensive than PO boxes in other areas. This is because it may be more difficult for the post office to deliver mail to remote areas. The cost of a PO box in a remote area can vary depending on the location.
It's important to note that these are just general averages. The actual cost of a PO box can vary depending on the specific post office and other factors. It's always a good idea to contact your local post office to inquire about pricing and availability.
Additional Services
In addition to the basic rental fee, there are a number of additional services that you can purchase for your PO box. These services can add to the cost of your PO box, but they can also provide you with additional convenience and security.
- Street address: Some post offices offer the option of assigning a street address to your PO box. This can be useful if you want to receive mail and packages from couriers or delivery services that do not deliver to PO boxes. The cost of a street address varies depending on the post office, but it is typically around $20-$30 per year.
- Key access: PO boxes typically come with a key, but you can also purchase a key access service. This service allows you to access your PO box 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The cost of key access varies depending on the post office, but it is typically around $10-$20 per year.
- Package acceptance: Some post offices offer package acceptance services. This service allows you to receive packages at your PO box, even if they are too large to fit in the box. The cost of package acceptance varies depending on the post office and the size of the package.
- Hold mail service: If you are going to be away from home for an extended period of time, you can purchase a hold mail service. This service allows you to have your mail held at the post office until you return. The cost of a hold mail service varies depending on the post office and the length of time you need the service.
It's important to note that these are just some of the most common additional services that are available for PO boxes. The specific services that are available and the cost of those services can vary depending on the post office. It's always a good idea to contact your local post office to inquire about the availability and cost of additional services.