Is it Worth it to Buy Decorative Cluster Mailboxes?
With recent U.S. Postal Service (USPS) regulations requiring new housing developments and apartment community complexes to install cluster box units on their properties, more and more residents, property managers, and postal carriers throughout the United States are adapting to centralized mail distribution tactics.
And while the benefits are inarguable - lessened costs for the USPS and higher security for residents, to name a few - some aren't excited about the prospect of placing clunky metal cluster boxes within the bounds of their luxury developments.
You don't need to worry, though. If you need aesthetically-pleasing designs with lasting durability and USPS-approved features, trust our experts at LowPrice Cluster Mailboxes. We offer various decorative cluster box unit products from well-known industry names like Florence Corporation and Salisbury Industries.
Don't sacrifice style for utility. From classic decorative to traditional styles, elegant stucco column enclosures, and sophisticated finishing touches, there is a cluster box unit to suit every development's needs.
What Are Decorative Cluster Box Units?
Decorative cluster box units (CBUs) make mail distribution more efficient and cost-effective for the Post Office and more secure for private users. USPS-approved cluster boxes, each usually on a pedestal, feature eight to 16 individual mail compartments per unit plus parcel lockers for larger items and packages. Decorative pedestal CBUs are easy to group or otherwise place in a line to create a central mail distribution center for residential developments, townhome communities, and apartment complexes.
After CBU installation, mail carriers use a master key with an Arrow lock to open the unit's master panel. This allows quick sorting of mail, even at a high volume. When postal workers have completed their distribution cycle, they simply close and lock the units' master doors rather than opening and closing each compartment.
Cluster Mailboxes vs. Neighborhood Delivery and Collection Box Units (NDCBUs)
Many former apartment tenants may remember Neighborhood Delivery and Collection Box Units (NDCBUs), a similar but now antiquated multi-home delivery method. Despite the similarity to CBUs, however, NDCBUs no longer meet USPS requirements due to their outdated security measures.
Whether you need to upgrade an old NDCBU or place brand-new cluster box units at a residential development, you can choose from countless USPS-approved product designs at LowPrice Cluster Mailboxes. Each product meets or exceeds USPS safety standards while offering style, durability, and ease of use for postal workers and users.
Why Luxury Developments Are Choosing Cluster Box Units in 2021
Luxury residential developers now choose to place CBUs in new developments for several reasons:
- Cluster box units move real estate and commercial developments toward centralized mail distribution.
- Cluster mailboxes eliminate the need for door-to-door mail delivery.
- A cluster box unit provides greater mail security.
- Cluster box units mean fewer trips to the post office.
- It's official: As of 2021, the USPS has ruled that centralized distribution via cluster box units will be the official policy for new housing developments.
Previously, the USPS did not require single-family housing developments or subdivisions to install CBUs, and many opted for individual curbside mailboxes instead. Following the USPS's efforts to cut costs and keep up with online and third-party mail services, the new guidelines now apply to all developments.
Fortunately, decorative cluster box unit models will suit almost every style and taste, making them an easy addition to luxury developments across the country.
Your Guide to Decorative CBUs
While the functionality of CBUs garners praise from mail services, most people overlook the variety of styles, configurations, and installation options. Modern cluster units combine weather-resistant designs with a practical style that will last for decades to come.
USPS-Approved Decorative Cluster Box Unit Styles
Standard Cluster Box Style
Standard cluster box models comprise the most basic and utilitarian design. Don't be fooled, though: these aren't public school lockers. Instead, CBUs offer a sleek, modern form while virtually eliminating the risk of mail crimes. Standard CBUs come in an array of colors, typically with a durable powder coat finish to protect against fading and scratching.
Standard cluster box products come with everything necessary to create a one-stop mail distribution center in your community. From a rust-resistant aluminum pedestal to accessories like hardware, number plates, locks, and keys, property managers can expect a speedy installation after purchasing a standard cluster mailbox package.
Classic Decorative Models
Classic decorative CBUs elevate the functionality of standard cluster units with crown molding and a sturdy pillar base. These elegant products bring all of the standard model features, such as hardware, number plates for tenant doors, and individual locks and keys, plus a posh appearance thanks to their more refined finishing touches.
Traditional Decorative Cluster Mailbox
Traditional decorative cluster mailbox units bring a mid-mod vintage flair to modern housing developments. These CBUs include column pedestals and appealing tops, from which the stainless steel and aluminum mailbox body seems to hang.
While the size and utility of traditional decorative CBUs match the classic line and standard models, the traditional product's added aesthetic appeal has made it a favorite in tasteful developments.
Stucco Column Enclosure CBU
Stucco column enclosure CBUs appeal to developers with the most refined taste. The prefabricated stucco column's desirable finish encloses the cluster mailbox, while the top-to-bottom column design enhances durability and safety. Featuring an internal foam core that collapses at high impact, these decorative stucco column enclosures come in appealing colors like sandstone, slate gray, and burnt Tuscan.
Accessories for Decorative Cluster Box Units
While each product mentioned above comes with a full range of necessary accessories, buyers may choose to purchase additional replacement parts or items to customize the design of their CBUs.
Accessories such as additional aluminum pedestals, pedestal covers, or crown molding caps add attractive finishes to your CBU model. Functional hardware pieces and accessories, including labels, installation kits, and doors, can be purchased as well, whether you need to replace one of the original items on your unit or simply prefer to have extras on hand.
For active communities with a large number of packages, developers may choose to add additional parcel lockers for extra package storage, each featuring a trapper lock for easy user access.
Are United States Postal Service-Approved Decorative Cluster Mailboxes and Accessories Worth It?
For property managers and real estate developers searching for a tasteful way to comply with new USPS regulations, a decorative cluster mailbox model is a cost-effective, high-security solution. With various product design options, accessories, crown molding, and pedestal covers from which to choose, customizing your items is easier than ever. Plus, you can trust that your decorative product will withstand the elements while complementing your development's aesthetic and pleasing your residents.
Purchase Decorative Cluster Box Units and Accessories from LowPrice Cluster Mailboxes Today
The search for the best decorative cluster box units at the lowest prices ends today. When you purchase a classic or traditional decorative cluster box unit from LowPrice Cluster Mailboxes, you can confidently know that you've chosen the highest-quality USPS-approved products on the market.
Our mailboxes ship directly from manufacturers like Florence Corporation and Salsbury Industries, allowing you to shop with assurance when you shop from LowPrice Cluster Mailboxes. For more information regarding our available products, prices, shipping, and delivery options, or details on ordering and installation, email or call us today at (866) 214-0017.
