- Location: Mailboxes must be placed in a location that is easily accessible by the mail carrier, and must be placed at a safe distance from the road to avoid damage by passing vehicles.
- Size and Design: The USPS requires that mailboxes be a specific size and design, which is intended to accommodate standard mail and packages. They must also be sturdy enough to withstand weather conditions and potential vandalism.
- Height: The USPS requires that mailboxes be installed at a height of between 41 and 45 inches from the ground to the bottom of the mailbox. This ensures that the mail carrier can reach the mailbox from their vehicle without having to leave their seat.
- Flag: Mailboxes must have a flag that can be raised to alert the mail carrier that there is outgoing mail to be picked up.
- Distance: If you live in a rural area or have a mailbox on a rural route, there are additional regulations that dictate how far your mailbox should be from your residence or the road. These regulations vary depending on the specific circumstances, so it's best to check with the USPS for more information.
It's important to note that failure to comply with USPS regulations for mailboxes can result in mail delivery problems or fines. So it's always a good idea to make sure that your mailbox is up to code.
The United States Postmaster General is responsible for overseeing the operations of the USPS, which includes the delivery of mail and packages to more than 160 million addresses across the United States. Currently the post is held by Louis Dejoy, who was appointed June 16, 2020.