Cluster mailboxes are the future of mail services globally. Have you ever come across a kiosk of individual mailboxes fixed at a specific location, either around apartments or just by the street? These kiosks are cluster mailboxes, and they are ideal for cutting courier costs, although they compromise on convenience. The United States is most famous for embracing this evolution in mailing. Here is everything you may need to know about cluster mailboxes.

Cluster Mailboxes Explained

Cluster mailboxes are also called cluster box units (CBU). It is a mailing function comprising several types of mailboxes mounted at a common location where couriers make mail deliveries and customers collect them. It is a centralized and communal form of mail delivery that aims to reduce delivery expenses by courier companies.

A cluster box unit can contain 16,13, 12, 8, or 4 locked parcel compartments and mailboxes. Some of these mailboxes are customizable to allow your compartment to blend with the environment. The USPS-approved cluster box unit is among the most popular types of cluster mailboxes in the United States.

Cluster Mailboxes STANDARD FEATURES

  • Robotically welded cabinet and hood seams

  • Rugged, weather-resistant powder coat finish resists scratching and vandalism

  • Constructed of 300 series stainless steel and aircraft aluminum, including aluminum pedestal

  • Master front loading door designed to prevent prying with interlocking overlap seams and tight clearances

  • Integrated Outgoing Mail Slot with weather protection hood

  • Heavy-duty tenant cam lock with three keys

  • Fully integrated parcel locker(s) with key trapping lock

  • Solid aluminum mail slot frame protects adjacent customer compartment and collection compartment

  • Standard silver adhesive identification decals with black numbers

What To Know About Cluster Mailboxes

How Do Cluster Mailboxes Work?

Each individual locker is assigned to someone. The postal courier officials deliver mail to their respective recipients’ mailboxes, and it is their responsibility to collect their mail. The postal carrier has a master key to all the boxes, while each individual owns a key to their lockers. Access to the box is anytime, provided you have the key.

Are They Safe? 

Cluster mailboxes are safe. The safety measures instilled ensure your package is as safe as it would have been if in the mailbox on your lawn. The boxes feature a lock that limits access, unlike residential mailboxes, which were more vulnerable to theft and vandalism. It also protects you from identity theft since your personal information is not compromised. Cluster mailbox types have varying features, and researching will help you make a more informed decision. 

Sending and Receiving Packages Is Easier 

Cluster mailboxes aim to maximize efficiency in the mailing process. Cluster Mailboxes ensure individuals can send and receive parcels across significant distances without stressing much. There is a specific compartment in the CBU for outgoing mail; ensure you indicate the correct address before sending it. You can also send a parcel by dropping your package at any public mail receptacle, at your local post office, or through your place of employment.

You can still receive larger packages despite your mailbox being small. These cluster box units have dedicated storage space for parcels that cannot fit in the standard box. If you receive such a package, the carrier will leave a key to the storage space in your compartment to ensure you can collect it. The courier will reuse the key, so leave it in your box after retrieving your items.

Most postal couriers find adopting the cluster mailbox strategy a profitable approach for their operations. Our article focuses on the significance of CBUs in our society and how we can take advantage of their services.

US Post Company is the largest reseller of Cluster Box Unit mailboxes in the United States. We specialize in working with customers to help identify the right solution for your needs, contact us at: 1-(800) 977-2626 or through our Contact page.  We look forward to working with you!