How To Get a P.O. Box When You Move

How to apply for a P.O. Box

Apply online on USPS.com to find, reserve and pay for a box near you. Then visit the local post office where your box will be with your application and two forms of ID (one must be a photo ID) to collect your keys. Both forms of ID must also be current and traceable to you.

Bring two IDs: one photo ID and one with your physical address.

Acceptable photo IDs include:

• Employer ID
• Passport
• Driver's license
• University IDs

The second ID needs your physical address, but doesn’t require a photo. Options include utility bills, leases or insurance policies.

Applying online

Search for locations using the "Find a P.O. Box Near You" tool on the USPS website. Select your post office, box size and payment period. Complete the application, accept the terms and conditions, then enter your payment information.

The system shows real-time availability. If the size you want isn't available, you can join a waitlist. To get your keys, you must still visit the post office. This verification step is mandatory.

Applying in person

Bring payment and two forms of ID to any post office. Tell the clerk you want a P.O. Box. Complete Form PS 1093 at the counter.

With an in-person application, you can ask questions directly. Staff can help you choose the right size and explain available services.

What is a P.O. Box?

A P.O. Box is a numbered, lockable box at a post office where you collect your mail. It provides an alternative to home delivery.

When you move, a P.O. Box offers key benefits. Your mail stays secure at the post office. Only you or authorized individuals can collect it. This keeps your home address private, which helps if you're between homes or in temporary housing.

The service works well in several scenarios. If you're relocating without permanent housing, a P.O. Box provides immediate mail access. It’s also helpful if you travel frequently or need a consistent address while house hunting.

» COMPARE: Top moving companies

Types of P.O. Boxes available

Post offices typically offer five P.O. Box sizes, from extra small to extra large. Not all sizes are available at every location. Pricing varies by location.

Ask about Street Addressing to receive UPS and FedEx packages.

You can rent a P.O. Box for three, six or 12 months. Longer terms typically cost less per month. Three-month rentals require automatic renewal enrollment.

Many post offices offer Street Addressing, which lets you receive packages from carriers like Amazon, FedEx and UPS. This feature makes your P.O. Box number appear as a street address, though restrictions apply.

» MORE: USPS temporary change of address

Standard P.O. Box sizes

Choose your size based on mail volume and type.

• Extra small boxes work for individuals with minimal mail. They hold 10 to 15 letters and three rolled magazines.
• Small boxes hold more than 15 letters, five rolled magazines or one Small Priority Mail Flat Rate Box.
• Medium boxes accommodate Small and Medium Priority Mail Flat Rate Boxes plus 10 to 15 letters.
• Large and extra-large sizes handle multiple packages.

If packages don't fit, you'll receive a slip to collect them at the counter or from a parcel locker.

Premium P.O. Box services

To avoid waiting in line for packages, you can place your signature on file. USPS will then place signed items in your box or a parcel locker.

Informed Delivery lets you preview incoming letters and track packages digitally. This free service shows what's arriving before you visit.

Some locations offer 24/7 lobby access. These services cost extra but provide convenience for those unable to visit during regular hours.

P.O. Box costs and fees

USPS P.O. Boxes cost $5 to $145 monthly in 2026. The price depends on size, location and payment period. Small boxes start at $6.50 monthly, while extra-large boxes can reach $90 monthly in premium locations.

Check multiple locations for P.O. Box pricing, as costs can vary.

Location significantly affects price. Urban post offices may charge three to four times more than rural ones. For instance, a small box costs $39 for six months in some rural areas, but $500 or more in downtown San Francisco.

Additional fees may also apply. Most locations charge a $10 deposit for each of your first two keys. Additional or replacement keys cost $17. Lost keys trigger a $35 lock replacement fee.

Plan for renewals and key fees

Annual rentals cost less per month than quarterly payments. Budget for possible rate hikes and key or lock replacement charges.

P.O. Box rental fees

Rates typically increase 2% to 5% every 12 to 18 months. The current schedule started on Jan. 18, 2026. Budget for 5% to 8% annual increases.

Alternatives to a P.O. Box

Virtual mailboxes provide a digital alternative to P.O. Boxes. They offer real street addresses, mail scanning and forwarding services. Unlike P.O. Boxes, you access mail online from anywhere.

UPS mailboxes provide street addresses and accept all carriers' packages. They cost $15 to $50 monthly. These private services work with all shipping carriers and offer additional business services.

Virtual mailboxes like PostScan Mail or Traveling Mailbox start at $10 to $15 monthly. Both of these apps let you request mail opening, scanning or forwarding. There are advantages to using virtual mailboxes for small business owners.  Virtual addresses work for bank accounts, entity formation and legal mail.

Many state laws prohibit LLCs and corporations from using P.O. Boxes as principal business addresses. P.O. Boxes may discourage potential customers concerned about business legitimacy.