A locking mailbox, also known as a secure mailbox, is a mailbox that has a locking door to help prevent mail theft. The best locking mailbox will have a vandal proof door, will feature an anti-pry system, and will be made of high-quality steel. It will also be durable, and resistant to wear and tear
With the increasing cases of identity and mail theft, it has become important to have a locking mailbox for your home. Locking mailboxes are designed to keep your mail safe from both intruders, and adverse weather conditions, such as rain and snow. (Source).
Locking mailboxes have a small slit that mail carriers can put mail through. The homeowner then uses a key to unlock their mailbox to retrieve their mail. Depending on the model and style of the mailbox, the key-locked door may be in the front, rear, or on both sides. (Source)
There are a lot of different locking mailboxes and considering the fact that your identity is at risk, picking the one that’s right for you can be a little overwhelming. Before you purchase a locking mailbox, consider its cost, the strength of its door, it’s size, and how many keys the mailbox comes with.
In this article, we will examine all the top-rated locking mailboxes. All of the models in this review will keep your mail out of the wrong people’s hands, whether you are replacing your current mailbox, or you are building a new house with security in mind.
What is a Locking Mailbox?
Contemporary or traditional mailboxes installed on your curbside, are pretty smaller and do not have a lock. Having a mailbox without a lock would mean easy ways for thefts to take place.
Mail thefts are common and require some ways to curb it. Applying a lock to it is not possible, hence upgrading the mailbox to include a lock to it is the option. Getting one is easy, but there are things to be done before using it.
The new mailbox with the lock needs to be approved by the postmaster to be able to use it. You cannot install a lock onto an existing contemporary or traditional mailbox.
What Is The Recommended Post Size for My Mailbox?
The post of a mailbox should be no longer than 42” in length. This is because the USPS mandates that a mailbox cannot be higher than 45” off of the ground. You must then take into account the 3” of an average American curb.
Comparing The Best Locking Mailboxes
Mail Boss 7506 Mailbox | ||||
Mail Boss Metro 7160 Mailbox | ||||
Epoch 7106 Locking Mailbox | ||||
Mail Boss 7500 Security Mailbox | ||||
Gibraltar MSK00000 Security Mailbox | ||||
Architectural Mailboxes 6200B-10 Oasis Mailbox | ||||
Salsbury Industries Vintage Mailbox | ||||
Protex Drop Mailbox | ||||
MailBoss Rectangular Steel Locking Mailbox | ||||
Qualarc PCSDB-LG Chest Locking Mailbox |
1. Mail Boss 7506 – Best Curbside Locking Mailbox
Mail Boss 7506 security mailbox measures 21 inches by 11.25 inches by 10.75 inches. Furthermore, it is forged using 14 to 16 galvanized steel that is tough enough to withstand any kind of tempering.
Notably, it has an advanced baffle door where the large parcels can go through as well. The baffle door is meticulously designed to prevent intruders from fishing out your packages.
Likewise, this product comes with a locking system that cannot be pried open. To reinforce this further is an inbuilt 12-disc wafer lock that makes it impossible for intruders to retrieve your mail.
Additionally, a set of three keys is provided upon purchase alongside its installation hardware. It comes in bronze, black, granite, and white colors, and makes a good locking curbside mailbox.
- Forged from quality steel
- Anti-pry latch lock system
- Vandal proof baffle door
- Durable and resistant to wear and tear
- Not waterproof
- Magazines won’t fit
- Jammed or broken keys
2. Mail Boss Metro 7160 – Best Easy-Mount Locking Mailbox
Mail Boss Metro 7160 is ideal for homes that do not have a curbside. This locking mailbox, made from high-quality materials, will mount on any surface close to your home for added security.Additionally, it is crafted using 14 to 16 inch galvanized steel, too. This makes it equally strong and tough like the 7506 model. Furthermore, it is sold with mounting accessories that help hoist the mailbox on wood, stone, and stucco walls.
Meanwhile, like most high-end security mailboxes by Mail Boss, Metro 7160 also feature an anti-pry latch system. This ensures that your mailbox remains locked and can only be opened with its rightful key.
For extra security, Mail Boss 7160 is fitted with a 12-wafer disc locking system as well. This protects against any leveraged entries by intruders.
Lastly, thanks to its solid construction, this mailbox will protect your mail from rain and any harsh weather. Hence, this waterproof locking mailbox is perfect for those looking for easy and anywhere-installations.
- Solid construction
- Anti-pry latch mechanism
- Weatherproof
- Easy to install
- Wall-mount not strong enough
- Low-quality nuts and bolts
3. Epoch 7106 – Most Spacious Locking Mailbox
Epoch 7106 measures 21 inches by 11.2 inches by 13.8 inches. This makes it one of the largest and most spacious locking mailboxes by Mail Boss.
Additionally, the entire mailbox is constructed with 12 to 14 gauge electro-galvanized steel which makes the unit strong and durable enough to withstand intruders or harsh weather.
Moreover, it also comes with an anti-pry locking system and a 12-disc wafer locking system to prevent any leveraged entries.
Lastly, it features a hidden outgoing mail tray to ensure your sent mail is safe for retrieval by the mail carrier.
You can fasten this curbside mailbox on metal, wood, or as a column of mailboxes.
- Spacious
- Strong steel construction
- All-weather proof
- Anti-pry and 12-disc wafer security mechanism
- Faulty latch
- Bulky and heavy
4. Mail Boss 7500 – Best Residential & Commercial Locking Mailbox
Mail Boss 7500 is USPS-approved for use in residential homes and businesses. It is a curbside mailbox designed to keep your mail safe and minimize identity theft. Plus, it packs plenty of unique features to grant it as one of the best and secure locking mailboxes on the market.First, Mail Boss 7500 is constructed from high-grade 14 and 16 gauge galvanized steel. This makes the unit tough against burglary and also resistant to wear and tear.
Second, it is fortified with a 3-tier security system to make it impenetrable. Likewise, it has an anti-pry latch lock that makes it hard for intruders to pry open your mailbox.
Third, this unit also has a 12-disc wafer locking system that further prevents leveraged intrusion. Alongside that, it features a baffle door that prevents anyone from reaching in and fishing out your mail as well.
Lastly, installing this mailbox is easy, too, thanks to the provided Fast-Trak mounting plate. This patented feature allows you to fasten your mailbox firmly on any wooden, steel, or concrete pole.
A pull out tray is available for outgoing mails and a set of 3 laser keys are provided.
- Solid construction
- Durable design
- Anti-pry latch lock
- 12-disc wafer security
- Not suitable for bulk mail
- Unsteady mounting plate
5. Gibraltar MSK00000 Security Box – Best Budget Locking Mailbox
Additionally, this unit measures 8 x 13 x 16 inches. It is compact enough to house all the mail you occasionally receive. Gibraltar MSK00000 features an aluminum body, too, that is dusted with white powder to keep its mint look and also protect against wear and tear.
Moreover, there are gold accents in various places that complement the white coating. The black brushed aluminum finish makes this mailbox flattering even to those passing by as well.
Likewise, this locking mailbox is mountable on any wall using the provided mounting accessories. It also has cam locks that prevent intruders from prying into your mailbox and stealing sensitive mail.
An internal pickup tray is included for holding outgoing mail safely until they are picked up. Meanwhile, a red indicator allows the mail carrier to know that the outgoing mail is due for pick-up.
- Impressive finishing
- Vandal-proof lock
- Compact and spacious
- Secured pull-out mail tray
- Does not last longer
- Faulty latch
6. Architectural Mailboxes 6200B-10 Oasis Mailbox – Heavy-Duty Mailbox
Furthermore, this mailbox is easily mountable on a pilaster, column, or pole with the help of its pre-drilled holes. To give you the ease of installation, it comes with the necessary hardware for assembling the unit.
With a galvanized-steel body, you can rely on its durability and longevity. Further protection is given to it from dirt, corrosion, and moisture thanks to the rubber seals.
- Durable
- Heavy-duty
- Simple installation
- Robust
- Spacious
- Approved by Postmaster General
- Dirt-, moisture-, and rust-proof
- Available in five colors
- Large receiving slot.
- The slot is big enough for a small hand to pass through.
- Large deliveries might block the hopper.
7. Salsbury Industries Vintage Mailbox – Most Secure Locked Mailbox
If you are looking for a vintage design for your locking mailbox, then Salsbury industries’ Victorian-inspired amenity could be a prudent option. It ensures durability through its aluminum construction.Additionally, this mailbox can be mounted securely on the wall. An additional feature added to it is the convenient stopper to limit the opening of the flap for avoiding excessive mail. This flap is also helpful in securing the parcels from prying or fishing.
This dual-lock mailbox is certified under ISO 9001:2008 for the high-end security of your precious documents and parcels.
- Beautiful vintage design
- Available in four colors
- Durable
- Simple to mount
- Lightweight
- Secure
- Cost-effective
- The slot is not that wide
- Not meant for large parcels.
8. Protex Drop Mailbox – Most Innovative
Protex offers a unique design for their locking mailbox. Upon first look, you will clearly notice the level of security it provides for safekeeping your envelopes. Furthermore, this state-of-the-art mailbox has an electronic number pad for locking the box securely.This battery-operated device will require you to program a code correctly for opening it, just like safes present at hotel rooms. Moreover, it has been designed to withstand hardships because of the thick metal body it possesses.
Protex offers this wall-mounting mailbox for giving you the highest level of security for not just your mails, but also for everyday items, like spare keys, emergency cash, etc.
- Cost-effective
- Flexible
- Multipurpose box
- Coded lock
- Top-grade and sturdy material
- Simple usability
- Not advisable to store valuables.
- Mounting screws are not given with the unit.
9. MailBoss Rectangular Steel Locking Mailbox – Most Durable
MailBox brings forth one of their most rugged and durable wall-mounted mailboxes that you can securely lock to keep your parcels and mails safe. This budgeted unit ensures flexible usage not just for homes, but other infrastructures, like offices, schools, etc., as well.The efficient yet straightforward rectangular design offered comes in a variety of colors to give you enough choices. If you are not looking for something fancy, and want a subtle yet reliable locking mailbox, then this could be the ideal one for you.
For enhanced protection, the steel design ensures an impressive level of safety for your belongings.
- Affordable
- Flexible
- Sturdy
- Subtle looks
- Simple to mount
- Multipurpose
- It is not great for large parcels.
- It is not waterproof.
10. Qualarc PCSDB-LG Chest Locking Mailbox – Best Mailbox For The Money
That can leave your parcels vulnerable to thieves. However, with the PCSDB-LG, you get a large and secure box for securing your mail and packages without the need to worrying. This weatherproof delivery box does not have a slot to insert mail.
However, it does have a lid that one needs to open, place the parcel, close the top, and press the locking button. That way, the package stays secure inside for you to retrieve later. You will need the key for opening the box to take out the parcel, of course.
- It has a large, sturdy box design.
- Weatherproof
- Secure
- Simple design
- Simple ground-based installation
- Expensive
- Instructions for installation are not clear.
How Does A Locking Mailbox Work?
In short, the locking mailbox is similar to the traditional without lock mailbox. The USPS carrier would put in the mail into the income mail door. It is a small opening to ensure that the letter gets into the safe part of the mailbox.
When you need to collect the mail from the mailbox, you need to unlock the secured door to gain access. You can then empty this storage and lock it back.
Is There A Way To Guarantee Anti-Theft?
Sometimes referred to as a secure mailbox, a locking mailbox uses a strong key and lock system to ensure the security of your mail. A locking mailbox typically has a durable steel construction to prevent break-ins and is weatherproof so it can endure the elements.
Can You Lock Your Mailbox?
The reason to get a Locking mailbox is to ensure that your mail is safe from being stolen. Another advantage is to upgrade it to a large one to have the convenience of fitting more letters in the box.
You cannot add the lock to your old mailbox. You need to get a new one with the locking facility and also ensure to get it approved by the postmaster. USPS carriers do not accept the key for the locking mailbox.
They also do not open the mailbox to put in your mail into it. To enable the lock on your mailbox, you need to ensure the mailbox meets the standard features of the traditional mailbox. So with the approval of the postmaster, you can lock it.
Guide to Buying the Best Locking Mailbox
Buying locking mailboxes can be confusing especially with the many brands available on the market. However, it is possible to get the best locking mailbox if you know what you are looking for.
Sometime you might get mail along with the packages from the sender. Hence, it necessary to weigh the product to obtain an estimate of the required shipment fees. To know the exact you need reliable postal scales.
Mailbox Placement
Where you intend to place your new mailbox will determine the model you buy. Consider setting up your inbox at a strategic point that is within sight. Generally, there are two types of locking mailboxes: curbside mailboxes and wall-mounted mailboxes.
Curbside locking mailboxes are installed on a strategic place on your curb. They may even take the original position of your mailbox. According to this source, curb locking mailboxes tend to be bulkier because their solid and sturdy design enables them to last longer and withstand weather conditions.
However, curbside security mailboxes require a post and mounting plate to hold them in position. Hence, factor in this additional cost when shopping for a suitable locking mailbox. On the other hand, wall-mounted mailboxes are easier to install.
They can be mounted on the wall of your house, garage, or the main gate. You need no additional accessories to hold them in place, and they also tend to be smaller compared to curbside mailboxes. It is also easier to place a wall-mounted locking mailbox at a safe place where you can see it.
Mail Type
The type of mail you receive will also determine the kind of security mailbox you need. If you only get small envelopes like utility bills, a compact locking mailbox will do. On the other hand, if you receive bigger packages, like online shipment, a large locking mailbox will suffice.
Mail Sensitivity
How sensitive the mail you receive determines the level of security you want on a locking mailbox. If new credit cards or any financial bills are sent to your mail, you need a tamper-proof and fortified locking mailbox.
However, if you do not risk losing sensitive information from the mail you receive, then an entry-level locking mailbox would do.
Mail Space
How much space you need in your locking mailbox depends on the frequency of mail you receive. Moreover, if you do travel a lot, you need a security mailbox that will hold all your mail for a while until you get back. Some locking mailboxes can hold several months of mail.
Mailbox Approval
It is required that you notify your postal carrier when you are upgrading to a locking mailbox. A postmaster will have to verify that the new locking mailbox is legitimate for home or business use. Fortunately, most locking mailboxes sold today come with the postmaster’s seal of approval.
Lock Mechanism
Locking mailboxes open by either key or a digital keypad. Your preference should guide you on which locking mechanism to go for. Keypad lock mailboxes are preferable if you tend to lose your keys a lot. A key and lock mailbox, on the other hand, is ideal if you will likely forget your keypad password.
Ready To Buy The Best Locking Mailbox?
The best locking mailbox should meet all your needs as a consumer. There are plenty of locking mailboxes on the market to choose from. The brand or model you go for should not only provide the required security but also provide additional benefits to help manage your mail better.
Do your research first before settling on the locking mailbox to buy. Consider this comprehensive locking mailbox review as a buyer’s guide to getting value for your money.
Do you have an envelope business? Are you looking for an envelope printer that has the ability to print multiple envelope sizes? Consider buying the best envelope printers as it offers high printing quality and image quality.
If you are using a locking mailbox, consider buying the best paper shredder. Sometime you might need to destroy confidential and private documents. The paper shredder will do the right for you.
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