For many people, the concept of a locking mailbox may be quite novel. One of the most common questions we get asked is whether a mail carrier will need a key to their mailbox. The short answer is no- your mail carrier won't need a key.
Does the post office have a key that works on all boxes? Can I give my mail carrier a copy of my key?
No. The USPS service regulations specifically stipulate that a postal carrier cannot be required to carry a key to a specific locking mailbox. There isn't a universal master key that will open your locking mailbox, or anyone else's. Read our article on USPS mailbox regulations for more details.
How does the mailman open the mailbox?
A mail carrier doesn't need a key to deliver your mail. there is an incoming mail slot that opens without a key and allows the mail man to drop your mail down into the storage compartment. This locking storage compartment is where your mail will sit until you retrieve it, and cannot be accessed without a key. Read our article on everything locking mailboxes for more details.
If a mail carrier doesn't have a key, what does it mean that it's postmaster general approved?
USPS approval generally means that a mailbox manufacturer has demonstrated a sound manufacturing process, and met a certain level of quality and integrity under certain conditions. For a full breakdown of what USPS approval means for locking mailboxes, read our article on the approval process.
Still Have Questions?
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