When you need a brand new mailbox installed, you probably don't give the task that much thought. But, there are federal regulations which oversee how a locking roadside mailbox must be set up. The guidelines aren't complex and are designed with the sole purpose of making it easier and much more efficient for mail carriers to deliver the mail to your dwelling or office.

Among the first things you must remember is if you choose a custom-designed mailbox it must be approved by the local postmaster. You are not authorized to simply design the locking mailbox any way you desire and if you make an effort to do so it is very possible you'll have a problem receiving your mail.

Any mailbox with a lock must have the approval of the Postmaster General and should include a slot big enough to handle the quantity of mail you ordinarily receive. It is against USPS regulation to display any kind of advertising on either the mailbox and the mailbox post.

You are authorized to attach a receptacle for newspapers to the mailbox providing it meets the following requirements:

* Does not need to touch the mailbox for support
* It can't interfere with the regular procedure for mail delivery
* It can't prevent the flag on the mailbox from the view of the mail carrier
* It can't go beyond the front of the mailbox once the door of the mailbox is closed
* The receptacle can't create a safety hazard either to the mail carrier or his or her vehicle

Furthermore, the name or address on your mailbox has to be at least 1 inch high. This is to help the mail delivery person be able to simply identify your residence.

The mailbox must stand between 41 and 45 inches above the road’s surface with the exception in times when the road or curb doesn't allow this distance. It is also essential to install locking roadside mailboxes on the right side of the street so they will be facing in the direction of the carrier’s driving path.

Your mailbox must be positioned between 6 to 8 inches from the curb. To make sure you are following the most current regulations, speak to your local post office prior to deciding to move your mailbox.

After installing, it is important you keep your mailbox is great working condition, with a sturdy post in tact. There must always be an obvious pathway for mail carriers to place mail into the box or they won't deliver your mail. It is the responsibility of the owner to change out any mailbox that becomes damaged.