The U.S. Postal Service provides guidelines for the installation and maintenance of mailboxes to ensure efficient mail delivery. These guidelines cover curbside mailbox placement, post construction, wall-mounted mailbox specifications, and routine maintenance procedures. Proper installation and upkeep contribute to reliable service and mailbox longevity.
Curbside Mailbox Placement
When installing a curbside mailbox, specific positioning is recommended by the U.S. Postal Service. The bottom of the mailbox, or the point of mail entry, should be positioned between 41 inches and 45 inches from the road surface. Additionally, the mailbox should be placed 6 to 8 inches back from the curb. If a raised curb is not present, contacting the local postmaster for guidance is advised. It is essential to clearly display the house or apartment number on the mailbox. If the mailbox is located on a different street than the residence, the full street address should be affixed to the mailbox.
Mailbox Post Installation
The support structure for a curbside mailbox should be designed to withstand potential impacts. The Federal Highway Administration recommends using either a 4-inch by 4-inch wooden support or a 2-inch diameter standard steel or aluminum pipe. Supports should be stable but yield or fall away if struck by a vehicle. Unyielding supports, such as heavy metal pipes, concrete posts, or repurposed farm equipment filled with concrete, are discouraged due to the potential for causing significant damage and injury. The mailbox post should be buried no more than 24 inches deep.
Door Slots and Wall Mailboxes
The U.S. Postal Service also provides guidelines for door slots and wall-mounted mailboxes. Approved door slots must be hinged on the side opposite the door’s hinges. For increased privacy, a mail slot hood can be installed on the inside of the door, adhering to specific dimensional standards. The hood should not project more than 2 1/16 inches beyond the inside of the door. On horizontal slots, the hood should not extend below the bottom of the outside plate. For vertical slots, the hood should not extend beyond the side of the outside plate on the same side as the door’s hinges.
Wall-mounted mailboxes should be capable of holding a normal day’s mail volume, including letter-sized envelopes, postcards, and catalogs. These mailboxes should be placed near the main entrance for easy access by the mail carrier. It is noted that wall-mounted mailboxes are intended for postage-related items only and should not be used for newspapers.
Mailbox Maintenance
Regular maintenance is recommended to ensure the mailbox remains in good working condition. An annual mailbox checkup should include tightening any loose hinges on the door, addressing any rust or loose parts, replacing missing or faded house numbers, and ensuring the path to the mailbox remains clear. Maintaining a clear path is crucial for consistent mail delivery.
Mailbox Size and Construction
The documentation indicates that a variety of mailbox sizes and styles are available. Wall-mounted mailboxes are not required to have a Postmaster General (PMG) seal of approval. Individuals interested in building their own mailbox can request drawings and measurements from the U.S. Postal Service Engineering department. The documentation also references “Next Generation Mailboxes” for those seeking larger mailboxes capable of accommodating packages.
Conclusion
The U.S. Postal Service provides specific guidelines for mailbox installation and maintenance to ensure efficient and safe mail delivery. These guidelines cover placement, post construction, door slot specifications, and routine upkeep. Adhering to these recommendations contributes to reliable mail service and prolongs the life of the mailbox. Regular inspection and maintenance are essential for optimal performance.
Sources
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