The United Parcel Service (UPS) is a globally renowned logistics company headquartered in the United States. Established in 1907, UPS offers many services, including package delivery, freight transportation, supply chain management, and mailbox services. Known for its brown delivery trucks and uniform, UPS operates in over 220 countries and territories, making it a vital player in the global supply chain.
What Is A UPS Mailbox?
A UPS mailbox is a personal or business service offered at The UPS Store locations. Unlike a traditional P.O. Box from the USPS, a UPS mailbox gives you a real street address for mail and package deliveries. They are designed to offer a secure and convenient way to manage your mail and can accept packages from all carriers, providing you with flexibility and peace of mind.
What Do You Need To Get A UPS Mailbox?
To set up a UPS mailbox, you’ll need two forms of identification – one photo ID and one non-photo ID. Acceptable photo IDs include a driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued documents. Non-photo ID can be a lease, mortgage, or utility bill.
You will also need to fill out an application form, which can usually be found online or in-store, and pay for the rental period you choose, ranging from 3 months to a year or more.
Steps For Getting A UPS Mailbox
- Find a UPS store that offers mailboxes. You can use the UPS Store Locator to find a store near you.
- Go to the UPS store and talk to a customer service representative.
- Provide the two forms of identification.
- Pay the one-time activation fee.
- Choose the size of your mailbox and the monthly rent.
- Pay the key deposit.
- Sign the agreement.
- Receive your key and mailbox number.
- Once you have a UPS mailbox, you can receive mail and packages at your private street address.
What Are Different Sizes Of UPS Mailboxes And The Cost For Each?
Here are the different sizes of UPS mailboxes, their costs, and a brief explanation of each.
Small
- Cost: $10 – $30 per month
- Dimensions: 12″ x 12″ x 10″
- Ideal for: Individuals who do not expect a high volume of mail
- Features: Holds up to 200 pieces of mail and packages
- Additional fees: Key fee ($10 – $20), overflow fee ($5 – $10 per day), late payment fee ($10), storage fee ($5 – $10 per day)
Medium
- Cost: $20 – $40 per month
- Dimensions: 18″ x 18″ x 12″
- Ideal for: Small businesses or individuals who expect a moderate volume of mail
- Features: Holds up to 500 pieces of mail and packages
- Additional fees: Key fee ($10 – $20), overflow fee ($5 – $10 per day), late payment fee ($10), storage fee ($5 – $10 per day)
Large
- Cost: $30 – $50 per month
- Dimensions: 24″ x 24″ x 18″
- Ideal for: Medium to large businesses or individuals who expect a high volume of mail
- Features: Holds up to 1,000 pieces of mail and packages
- Additional fees: Key fee ($10 – $20), overflow fee ($5 – $10 per day), late payment fee ($10), storage fee ($5 – $10 per day)
Other Fees
- There is a one-time activation fee of $25.
- You may also be charged a fee if you need to have your mailbox rekeyed.
- The exact cost of a UPS mailbox will vary depending on the store’s location and the demand for mailboxes in the area.
Tips For Determining What Size Mailbox You Might Need
- Mail Volume: Consider your typical volume of mail; if it’s substantial, opt for a larger mailbox.
- Package Frequency: A medium or large mailbox may be best if you receive packages regularly.
- Business Use: Businesses with higher mail volumes should consider a larger size.
- Travel Schedule: A larger box might be necessary if you travel frequently and can’t empty your mailbox often.
- Mail Type: If you receive larger envelopes or magazines, you might need a medium or large box to accommodate them.
- Future Needs: Consider if your mail volume may increase, such as if your business is growing.
- Budget: While a larger mailbox can offer convenience, consider if the extra cost fits your budget.
The Advantages And Disadvantages Of A UPS Mailbox
Advantages
Real Street Address: A UPS mailbox offers a real street address, often required for receiving packages from private courier services. This address can also add professionalism to your business correspondence.
24/7 Access: Certain UPS stores offer 24/7 mailbox access, enabling you to pick up your mail whenever convenient, irrespective of store operating hours.
Package Acceptance From All Carriers: UPS mailboxes can receive packages from all courier services, not just UPS. This includes USPS, FedEx, DHL, and others, providing a one-stop solution for all your package deliveries.
Mail And Package Notification: UPS can notify you when you receive mail or a package, eliminating unnecessary trips to check your mailbox.
Mail Holding And Forwarding: If you’re away from home or your business, UPS can hold your mail and packages. They also offer a forwarding service to send your mail and packages to another address if necessary.
Reception Of Oversized Packages: UPS stores can receive large or bulky packages that may not fit into standard mailboxes or require a signature upon delivery.
Security: UPS mailboxes are located in secure locations, reducing the risk of mail theft or damage that could occur with traditional, unsecured mailboxes.
Professional Image: A UPS mailbox, with its associated real street address, can provide a professional image for your small business, especially if you’re working from home.
Additional Services: UPS stores offer a range of other services such as printing, shipping supplies, notary services, etc., providing a convenient hub for business needs.
Privacy: Using a UPS mailbox lets you keep your home address private. This is especially beneficial for home-based businesses.
Disadvantages
Cost: Renting a UPS mailbox can be more expensive than USPS. This could be a factor for individuals or small businesses on a tight budget.
Varied Operating Hours: Not all UPS stores offer 24/7 access to your mailbox. The access hours can depend on the specific store location and their policies.
Distance: Depending on where you live or operate your business, a UPS store may not be conveniently located nearby. This could make accessing your mail more time-consuming or difficult.
Size Limitations: While UPS mailboxes can receive larger packages than a standard PO Box, there may still be size limitations. Very large or bulky items may not be accepted.
Potential For Additional Fees: Depending on the UPS store’s policies, you may face additional fees for forwarding mail, receiving an unusually high volume of packages, or even letting your mailbox get too full.
No Residential Prestige: While a real street address can be beneficial in many ways, some people might prefer the prestige associated with a residential or office address. A mailbox address might not offer the same level of perceived prestige.
Contractual Commitment: UPS mailboxes often require a contractual commitment for a certain period (like 3, 6, or 12 months). This might not offer the flexibility some people or businesses require.
Difference Between UPS Store Mailbox Services And USPS Po Box Address
A primary difference is that UPS Store Mailbox Services provide a real street address, while a USPS PO Box gives you a numbered box address at a USPS facility. The UPS address can be more versatile, allowing for deliveries from all carriers and lending a professional image, especially for businesses.
Can I Use A UPS Mailbox As A Business Address?
Yes, a UPS mailbox can indeed serve as a business address. It provides a real street address, enhancing professionalism and privacy, especially for home-based businesses. This way, you can separate your personal and business correspondence and keep your home address private.
Is A UPS Mailbox A Legal Address?
Yes, a UPS mailbox can be used as a legal address. It can be used for registering businesses, receiving official documentation and correspondence, and other purposes requiring a physical address. However, certain documents or services may require a residential address, so it’s important to confirm before using your UPS mailbox address.
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