Tips for buying cluster mailboxes online

November 23, 2021

Tips for Buying Cluster Mailboxes Online

For business owners and property developers alike, purchasing a cluster mailbox is likely an infrequent occurrence. Purchasing commercial mailboxes may seem confusing and frustrating as you sort through products of different sizes and styles while attempting to adhere to USPS safety standards and shipping regulations.

Don't risk an inferior product or make the mistake of purchasing a mailbox that isn't USPS-approved. When you buy cluster mailboxes from our experts at LowPrice Cluster Mailboxes, you can confidently know that you've selected a USPS-approved cluster box unit (CBU) that meets national security standards and makes shipping and delivering mail simple.

Benefits of USPS-Approved Cluster Mailboxes

No one can deny the increasing advantages of cluster box units in apartment complexes and townhome communities. The reduction of individual residence-based mailboxes since cluster units entered the scene has improved curb appeal and increased security from identity theft and mail crime, satisfying tenants, landlords, and the USPS alike. 

Another benefit that most of us do not consider is that when the USPS delivers to an apartment complex's CBU instead of door-to-door throughout the complex, it saves the USPS more than 50% of its annual delivery costs per residential address. In turn, that saves our federal tax dollars. 

The U.S. Postal Service not only encourages the use of cluster mailboxes but, as of 2021, requires housing developments to install USPS-approved CBUs instead of private boxes. Even new, detached single-family-home communities must now default to cluster box units, ultimately assisting the USPS in slashing operating costs to keep up with competitors.

Our team at LowPrice Cluster Mailboxes has compiled our best tips and insider advice for purchasing commercial mailboxes, plus a guide to the different types of CBUs and answers to the questions your residents may have regarding access to their mailbox compartments.

Accessing USPS-Approved Mailbox Cluster Units

While colors, styles, and sizes of cluster box units vary, all CBUs have two distinct access points and methods: (1) access by tenants and (2) access by mail carriers.

The styles of CBUs may differ slightly, but all allow postal carriers to efficiently make mail and package deliveries to multiple private-use mailboxes or parcel lockers at once. At the same time, all allow individual tenants to receive private delivery of mail that is secure from meddling and also to receive package delivery at their apartment complex.

1 - Cluster Mailbox Access for Tenants of Apartment Complexes and Townhome Developments 

When developments install cluster box units, each resident will receive a key to unlock their individual cluster mailbox unit, along with a spare. Each key will open only the tenant's assigned mailbox, allaying security fears and mail theft threats.

In most cases, cluster pedestal mailboxes contain separate parcel lockers for packages that USPS and private courier services deliver. If a package is too large for the assigned tenant boxes, the postal carrier will leave a numbered key to a parcel locker in the tenant's mailbox. 

Residents can then find the corresponding parcel locker and retrieve their secure parcels. The parcel locker key remains in the trapping lock, allowing mail carriers to remove the key during their next mail distribution cycle.

2 - Accessing Cluster Box Units by Mail Carriers

USPS-approved pedestal mailboxes provide an efficient solution to mail handling. The mail carrier uses master locks to open the mailbox's front-loading panel, allowing them to quickly sort mail into each tenant's compartment without needing to unlock individual boxes. When finished, the postal carrier can close and secure the large front or back master panel of the CBU.

Additionally, the U.S. Postal Service will manage the installation and upkeep of the master lock, also known as an Arrow lock. With only one master key distributed to postal carriers, CBU owners and users can trust their mailboxes' privacy and security.

The Buyer's Guide to Cluster Box Units

CBU Design

The U.S. Postal Service defines CBUs as free-standing pedestal mailboxes with front-loading, individual units accessible only through USPS-provided Arrow master locks and each tenant's access key. Each CBU features a front-opening panel or back-loading master door that only the postal carrier may unlock for mail sorting.

Beyond the basic design specifications, the guidelines allow some amount of customization to suit individual needs. Buyers can choose from various layouts comprising a series of eight to sixteen compartments and one or more parcel lockers for large packages and items. Prices start near $1,000 depending on your desired configuration.

Keys for Your CBU

Each USPS-approved CBU usually has three keys per resident mail unit. Typically, the assigned unit user will receive two keys, leaving the third for safekeeping with the property manager. The postal service manages the master key that unlocks the master-loading panel.

Mail Security

Overall, cluster mailboxes provide enhanced safety and security compared to curbside mailboxes. Each box is accessible only by individual keys or the postal carrier's master key.

Style and Durability

Cluster mailboxes typically face daily exposure to heat, rain, and cold, making a durable powder-coated finish critical. Most cluster box systems feature stainless steel and aluminum bodies and heavy-duty anchor bolts to secure the units into the concrete. The stainless steel build and powder-coated finish provide great style while eliminating the hassle of corrosion or damage to your CBU.

USPS CBU Requirements

The United States Postal Service provides detailed guidelines for developers regarding the selection, installation, and style of your CBU product. While the cluster box systems at LowPrice Cluster Mailboxes meet national USPS-approved regulations, we recommend familiarizing yourself with the guidelines before purchasing a product.

Answering Residents' FAQs

How will I know which box is mine?

When your landlord or property manager assigns a mailbox for private use, you may wonder how to determine which one belongs to you.

No need to worry: Each unit will feature either an adhesive nameplate, an inscribed number, or other identifying feature unique to your box. Your property manager may use any number of identification systems, but a quick consultation with your management team should let you know which mailbox belongs to you.

What happens if I lose my key?

After your apartment community installs CBUs on the property, you should receive two keys to your mailbox. Your property manager will also have a copy of each key.

If you lose the key to your mailbox, you can ask the property management team for a replacement. In most cases, your property manager will have a copy made by a locksmith or give you their copy so you can make a duplicate.

If your property management team doesn't have the key to your unit, they may need to replace the entire lock to enable you to access your mailbox.

How is outgoing mail retrieved?

Each CBU has a specific mail slot for outgoing mail. Your mail delivery person can easily gather outgoing mail with each visit.

Your Guide to Purchasing Cluster Mailboxes Online

When purchasing commercial cluster box mailboxes online, it's essential to ensure that you:

  1. Find the best online cluster mailbox retailer
  2. Choose the most appropriate style and design for your business or commercial development before placing your order
  3. Get the highest-quality, USPS-approved cluster mailbox available
  4. Compare shipping and delivery services

 

Purchasing From LowPrice Cluster Mailboxes

At LowPrice Cluster Mailboxes, we proudly offer a comprehensive selection of top-quality, USPS-approved CBU mailboxes in your choice of style and color. Our series of mailboxes, manufactured by Florence Corporation and Salsbury Industries, meets the United States Postal Service® (Post Office) regulations for security and design while offering easy access to front-loading mailboxes and parcel lockers.

We look forward to assisting you in choosing and ordering a cluster box unit. Our team will provide you with any information needed to install and maintain your mailboxes, making it easier than ever to order cluster boxes online.

For more information regarding pricing, shipping and delivery options, and the best commercial mailboxes for your location, email us at LowPrice Cluster Mailboxes or call (866) 214-0017 today.

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