Is your mailbox ready for its annual check-up? The United States Postal Service’s Mailbox Improvement Week runs from May 19-25 this year, making now the perfect time to give your mailbox some much-needed attention.
This yearly campaign encourages homeowners with curbside mailboxes to inspect and maintain these vital communication points. A well-maintained mailbox not only ensures your mail stays protected from rain and snow but also makes your letter carrier’s job safer and more efficient.
USPS guidelines recommend mailboxes be positioned 41-45 inches from the road surface to the bottom of the box and set back 6-8 inches from the curb. Your mailbox should be mounted on a break-away support like a 4×4 wooden post or 2-inch diameter metal pipe for safety.
When examining your mailbox this week, check that:
- It’s free from rust and could use a fresh coat of paint
- Your address numbers are clearly visible (at least 1-inch high in contrasting color)
- The box opens and closes properly
- It’s large enough for your daily mail volume
- The area around it is free from obstructions
Remember that all mailboxes must be of a design approved by the Postmaster General. If yours needs replacement, check with your local post office about approved options.
Taking care of your mailbox isn’t just about postal regulations—it enhances neighborhood appearance and ensures reliable delivery of your important correspondence. A small investment of time this week could mean trouble-free mail service for months to come.