Traditionally, the red flag on a mailbox is used to signal to a mail carrier that you have outgoing mail. But it poses a real threat to your outgoing mail, as well. When you raise the red flag on your mailbox, you signal to thieves that you have mail they might want to steal.
Locking mailboxes and outgoing mail
We are often asked why there is no outgoing mail security on a locking mailbox. For residential curbside locking mailboxes, the USPS mandates that the mail carrier cannot be required to have a key to access your mailbox. That means that incoming mail is deposited through an incoming mail slot or bin, and outgoing mail bust be retrievable without a lock.
Unlike with traditional mailboxes, with locking mailboxes, the outgoing mail is in a separate area than the incoming mail, so the mail carrier will see it when depositing your incoming mail and take it regardless of whether you use the flag or not.
Outgoing Mail on Mail Boss Mailboxes
On the curbside Mail Boss® and Package Master®, there is an outgoing mail tray that is revealed when you open the incoming mail door. On the curbside Mail Manager®, there is an outgoing mail clip on the inside of the incoming mail bin. On the Wall Mount Townhouse and Metro, there is an outgoing mail clip that is revealed when you open the incoming mail door.
Should You Send Outgoing Mail from Your Mailbox?
No. If you are sending checks, bill payments, or anything with sensitive information that can be used for identity theft, we always recommend bringing it to a blue USPS collection mailbox or directly to the post office. Better yet, use online bill pay. It’s more secure.
Still Have Questions?
Don’t hesitate to contact us with additional inquiries!