Mailbox posts are mandatory for installing curbside mailboxes. A mailbox post needs to be durable and weather-resistant to withstand the test of time and external elements. Moreover, you must buy a mailbox post according to USPS and Federal Highway Authority recommendations.
I have shortlisted the best mailbox posts as per the directions given by USPS. Considering the flurry of mailbox posts in the market, I have spent considerable time shortlisting the best mailbox posts you can buy in 2022. I have also included a buying guide and an FAQ section to help you make the best purchase decision.
The 5 Best Mailbox Posts
1. Mail Boss 7121, Black In-Ground Mounting Post
Review: If you live in an area with extreme weather and need a strong and durable mailbox post, nothing beats Mail Boss 7121, an in-ground mailbox mounting post.
I like this post because of its durability. The post is made with heavy-duty 10-inch and 14-inch gauge electro-galvanized steel. It is powder-coated to ensure maximum rust and corrosion-resistant.
The post measures 43 x 4 x 4 inches. Its dimensions are in line with USPS recommendations. The post comes with 4 mounting bolts and easy-to-follow installation instructions. Another thing I like about this post is that it can be installed on a wooden post for deep in-ground installation.
Please note that this post is only compatible with Mail Boss mailboxes, and the post must be buried 12-inches deep in the ground to meet the USPS recommendations of keeping the mail slot above 41-45 inches above the ground.
User Feedback: The post gets amazing reviews from the buyers. Mail Boss mailboxes are very popular in the US and are the first choice of homeowners. Buyers like this post for its durability, weather resistance, and easy installation. It works best for in-cement and wood base installations.
Some buyers mention slow rusting after 3-4 years.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Durable
- Looks nice after installation
- Good value of money
Cons
- None so far
2. Gibraltar Mailboxes Whitley 4×4 Rust-Proof Plastic White, Cross-Arm Mailbox Post
Review: Plastic is a better material than steel and aluminum because it is not prone to rust and weather damage. However, there are two problems with plastic mailbox posts. They have a limited weight-bearing capacity and are fragile. A strong hit from a mail thief can break the post, and they can car lift your mailbox.
This post from Gibraltar is compatible with medium and large-sized curbside mailboxes. It has a nice appearance that adds aesthetic appeal to your home with its classic pastoral look. The post measures 51 x 4.25 x 7.63 inches, and it must be buried at least 8 inches inside the ground to make it compatible with USPS guidelines.
Its maximum weight capacity is 40 pounds, so please keep in mind the weight of your mailbox and mail volume before buying it. You cannot install it in-ground. You will need a 4 x 4 wooden post for installing it. Please note that this wooden post is sold separately.
User Feedback: The only complaint in the review section is the missing wooden post. The post is not cheap. Buyers suggest that the installation post must have been included in the package at this price. Buyers praise the heavy-duty plastic used in the making because it is not like other cheap plastic posts available in the market.
Pros
- Heavy-duty plastic
- Best for extreme weathers
- Can withstand a couple of blows
Cons
- Installation hardware not included
3. Zippity Classic Mailbox ZP19013
Review: The classic Zippity mailbox post is a combination of a mailbox post, newspaper holder, and no-dig pipe anchor kit. It is a beautifully crafted mailbox post that gives a perfect look to your home. I like this mailbox post for its architectural caps and base moldings.
Another thing I like about this mailbox is the easy installation. The steel no-dig anchor makes it easy to push the post inside the ground. The post is made from premium weather-resistant vinyl that can withstand rain, snow, and test of weather.
One thing that limits the usability of this post is its inability to be installed in cement or concrete. It can support a maximum weight of 15 pounds. Please note that the mailbox is not included in the price of the post.
User Feedback: Users praise the mailbox post with words like tough and sturdy. They also like its appearance and the curb appeal. Buyers mention that you don’t need a 2-hand 10-pound hammer to install the post. A 4-pound single-handed hammer will do the trick. Buyers also mention that you must use a lightweight mailbox with this post as its maximum weight capacity is 15 pounds, including the mail’s weight.
Pros
- Well-built
- Easy installation
- Easy assembly
- Aesthetically pleasing
Cons
- Wobbles in windy situations
4. Architectural Mailboxes 7516B-10 Pacifica Mailbox Post
Review: If you live in an area frequented by wind storms and other weather-related catastrophes, the 7516B Pacifica mailbox post from Architectural Mailboxes is a great option. The post is made from a 3-inch galvanized steel and is fully powder coated for longevity, corrosion, and rust resistance.
I like this post for its maximum resistance and sturdiness against winds, rainwater, and snow. You may be thinking that a steel post will not be the best fit for such weather, but it has been galvanized to make it durable.
The post can support mailbox posts up to 50 pounds. You can use this post for setting up heavy-duty mailbox posts at your place. Everything you need to install the post is included in the purchase. It comes with a mounting plate, hardware for mounting the post, and spacers for T2-sized mailboxes.
Please note that this mailbox post is only compatible with Architectural Mailboxes only.
User Feedback: Overall, the buyers are satisfied with the purchase. However, they also mention some problems with the unit. User feedback reveals that the top plate is not perfectly perpendicular to the post, which is slightly shorter. Moreover, square bolts would make the post more stable than regular hex bolts.
Buyers like the ease of installation and sturdiness of the post. Some people recommend coating the post with car wax for enhanced outdoor protection.
Pros
- Sturdy and well-built
- Good value for money
Cons
- Complex instructions
5. Gibraltar Mailboxes Decorative Medium Capacity Galvanized Steel Mailbox Post
Review: If you are looking for a decorative mailbox post to enhance curb appeal, this is a great option. The all-in-one mailbox post and mailbox is best for people who don’t receive any valuables in their mail as the mailbox doesn’t have a locking mechanism.
I like this mailbox for two things; its appearance and price. It is constructed from a slim dual–reinforced steel post with a decorative scroll design and a traditional medium-sized mailbox. The post and the mailbox are made from rust-resistant galvanized steel with powder-coated to make it durable.
The mailbox is USPS approved and has enough capacity for mail, magazines, padded envelopes, and small parcels. The mailbox post has an adjustable door latch that can be modified for a tighter grip.
The installation hardware is included in the box, but you will need to assemble the parts. The assembly instructions are well-detailed and easy to understand.
One issue with this post is that it is only 1-inch thick. The post will not be a good fit for windy areas.
User Feedback: Buyers are extremely satisfied with their purchases. They praise the mailbox combo with words like great value for money, one-stop solution, and easy to install the unit. One problem buyers mention related to this mailbox post is that you will need at least one cement bag to hold it against winds and storms.
Pros
- Decorative design
- Affordable
- Great value for money
Cons
- A little fragile
Best Mailbox Posts Buying Guide
The integrity of your mailbox depends on the post on which it is installed. Hence, it is important to take some time before making the final decision. Before buying a mailbox post, there is not much to consider, but reflecting on some features will help you make a great buying decision.
I have discussed below the factors you need to consider before buying a mailbox post. Let’s check them out.
Material
Mailbox posts usually come in two materials; metal or plastic. You may also find a combination of both. Metal mailbox posts are made with attention to detail and powder coated to make them rust and corrosion-resistant. Metal posts are more resistant to winds compared to plastic posts.
Plastic posts are best for areas where rainfall is frequent. However, they are fragile and can be broken easily.
USPS suggests homeowners avoid unyielding and potentially dangerous supports, like heavy metal pipes, concrete posts, and farm equipment (e.g., milk cans filled with concrete).
Height
The height of the post must be in relation to standards set by USPS. USPS instructs that the height of the mailbox must be 41-45 inches from the road surface to the bottom of the mailbox or point of mail entry. Hence, make sure that you check the post height in accordance with the USPS instructions.
Weather Resistance
Another important thing to check before buying a mailbox post is the weather resistance. An ideal mailbox post will be durable enough to withstand rain, snow, and extreme sunlight.
Appearance
Mailbox posts can contribute to the overall curb appeal of your house. You can get a post made yourself as well and have as many decorations and modifications as you like. However, you must keep the USPS recommendations in mind before getting yourself a custom-made mailbox post.
Installation
Ensure that all things needed to complete the installation are included in your purchase. USPS suggests a 4 x 4 inches wooden support or a 2-inch diameter standard steel or aluminum pipe post. The post must not be buried more than 24-inches deep. Moreover, the post must be installed so that the mailbox is 6-8 inches back from the curb. If you don’t have a raised curb, it is best to contact your local postmaster.
FAQs
Is it necessary to follow USPS guidelines for installing mailbox posts and mailbox?
Yes. USPS is a federal agency; violating any guidelines set by them can land you in all sorts of trouble.
Can I cement my mailbox post into the ground?
Yes. You can cement your mailbox post in the ground. It is a great way to make the post stay on the ground. However, you must follow USPS guidelines while installing a mailbox post.
Is it allowed to install a DIY mailbox Post?
Yes. There is no harm in installing a DIY mailbox post as long as you follow all USPS instructions for the construction and installation process.
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