What are the Different Types of Mailboxes?

Wall Mount Mailbox

Each person in the United States uses a mailbox to collect their most important things. A mailbox is typically checked every day and used to send and receive outgoing mail. Many people do not think about upgrading their mailbox until it is too late and needs repair. 

If you are looking to repair or upgrade your home locking mailbox you have many different options. Here are some of the many different types of mailboxes that you can use for your home and the benefits that each offers.

List of 6 Different Types of Mailboxes

1) Wall Mount

A wall mount mailbox is a very traditional type of mailbox. This mailbox hangs on the side of the home. It traditionally hangs next to the door of the home and displays the address of the home in the mailbox. This mailbox is great because it is very convenient. You can easily open your door and get the mail without stepping foot outside. These mailboxes are often made of metal so they are extremely durable and secure. There are many different options for a wall mount mailbox. You can invest in a simple mailbox of this type or spend a little more for a decorative and well-designed mailbox. The choice is up to you, but if you want to convince me this is the way to go.

Wall Mount Mailbox

2) Freestanding Mailbox

A freestanding mailbox is often referred to as a roadside mailbox. These mailboxes are typically positioned closer to the roadway and farther away from the home.

This is ideal for post office workers because they can easily access many mailboxes without having to walk up to each house. This is less convenient than other mailboxes because it requires homeowners to walk to the mailbox to get their mail.There are many different versions of freestanding mailboxes. For instance, you can get one that has one or two doors. If you live on a busy road you can opt for one that has access from both sides.

Freestanding Mailbox

You can use the back door of the mailbox to get your mail so that you are not in danger of passing cars. You can also choose to get a locked mailbox if you have had issues with your mail. 

3) Mail Slots

Mail slots are not actually mailboxes, but they do serve the same function as a mailbox. They are essentially just a slot in the door that allows the postal worker to deposit mail into your home.

This type of mailbox is ideal for those who live in busy areas, travel frequently, or have had issues with people stealing their mail. Since the mail goes directly into your home you do not have to worry about leaving your mail out for too long.

Mail Slots

If you travel frequently you do not need to worry about the hassle of asking a neighbor to get your mail or getting the post office to hold it since there is a minimal security risk with this type of mailbox.If you want to send something in the mail you cannot leave it in the mailbox and instead need to make a trip to the post office. There is no way to leave the mail for the post worker to take with them. Another issue is that if you do not already have this type of mailbox installed in your home you may need to drill and cut holes into your current door to get it to fit.

4) Parcel Box

If you do a lot of online shopping and you get a large number of packages each week you may be putting yourself at risk for theft. Many times people find that their packages go missing because people steal them from their front porch or sidewalk if they are not home in time to pick them up. This can cause a lot of frustration.One of the best ways to prevent theft is to invest in a parcel box. These boxes are large enough to hold a large amount of mail and even some larger packages.

Parcel Box

They provide peace of mind for you and your family. They also make it easier for the post worker because they do not need to leave notes for you to get your package. Instead, they can lock it in the parcel box.

5) Post Mail Box

Another great option for a mailbox is a mailbox that sits on a single post. The post is often made of wood or metal and sits close to the road. You can then have a mailbox sit on top of it. This is most likely the most iconic type of mailbox. These mailboxes can come in a variety of different shapes, styles, and sizes. If you have a theme of your overall house or love collecting certain things you can often find a decorative mailbox top for the post. You may have seen lighthouse post mailboxes, car mailboxes, animal post mailboxes, and many others.

6) Apartment Mailboxes

Another common type of mailbox is the apartment mailbox. If you live in an apartment or a condominium you likely have an apartment mailbox. These types of mailboxes are also popular choices for business complexes.

They allow added convenience for the post worker and provide a central location for all residents of the area to pick up their mail.These mailboxes are very secure because each slot has a lock on it. Each resident then has a key that they can use to open their mailbox.

These mailbox stands often feature large boxes on the bottom that the post worker can deposit packages for residents. This helps keep the packages and mail safe.If you are looking to upgrade or repair your current mailbox there are many different options that you can choose from. Each mailbox comes with different benefits and downsides. 

You should decide which factors matter most to you and find the mailbox that fits your style. For example, if you are looking for convenience you may choose a mounted mailbox but if you get a lot of packages you may want a parcel box.

Related article: https://nestkoo.com/make-your-own-mailbox/

Author

  • nestkoo author image - todd davis

    A jack of all trades, Todd has been a DIY enthusiast, traveler, and writer for many years. He has a deep understanding of all types of painting tools and door hardware, and has shared many articles on these topics throughout the years.

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