In 2021, the United States Postal Service instituted new guidelines for parcel locker usage. These updated requirements were designed to improve customer convenience and efficiency when using these services. Previously, there was a 10 to 1 mailbox to parcel lockers ratio, but according to the new regulations, the current ratio will be 5 to 1. This will apply to all new and remodeled apartment buildings, and they should verify the appropriate locations for said mailboxes with the local postmasters.

Parcel Locker Mandate Updated in Standard 4C of Postal Operations Manual

To help manage the ever-increasing influx of packages being delivered to apartment buildings and ensure that tenants have adequate access to their mail, the United States Postal Service has updated its requirements for parcel locker installation in these types of buildings. The new guidelines, which can be found in Standard 4C of the Postal Operations Manual, state that for every five mailboxes in an apartment building, there must now be at least one parcel locker also available.

This change comes as a direct result of the continuous growth in e-commerce and the resulting increase in package deliveries to apartment buildings nationwide. In fact, according to recent data from the Postal Service, package volumes have increased by more than 11% since just last year.

While some may see this as a burden, the new guidelines are actually quite reasonable and should not pose too much of a problem for most property owners or managers. After all, parcel lockers are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, and they can free up a significant amount of space inside an apartment building that delivery boxes and parcels would otherwise take up.

What is a 4C Mail Slot?

4C mail slots are communal mailbox slots that are compliant with the latest United States Postal Service (USPS) guidelines. They're installed in apartment buildings and other similar structures to provide tenants with a convenient way to receive their mail. 4C mail slots must be large enough to accommodate packages and be placed in a location that is easily accessible to all tenants. In addition, each 4C mail slot must have its own unique identifier, such as a number or letter, to ensure that each tenant receives their mail correctly.

While the USPS does not require 4C mail slots, they are strongly recommended, especially in larger apartment buildings. This is because they can help to improve the efficiency of mail delivery and prevent mix-ups. 

There are two types of 4C mail slots: surface mounted and recessed. Surface mounted 4C mail slots can be installed directly onto the outside of a building, while recessed 4C mail slots are designed to be installed into a wall or door. 4C mail slots can also be equipped with optional features, such as an anti-fish device, which helps to prevent mail theft.

If you're thinking about installing 4C mail slots in your apartment building, or if you have any questions about the new guidelines, US Post Company can help sort through the information and provide guidance, contact us at: 1-(800) 977-2626

What's the Difference Between a Parcel Locker and a 4C Mail Slot?

A parcel locker is a type of communal mailbox that is specifically designed to hold packages. These lockers are usually larger than traditional mailboxes and often have multiple compartments to accommodate different-sized deliveries.

4C mail slots, on the other hand, are designed for general mail delivery. While they can technically be used to hold packages, they're not as large or sturdy as parcel lockers and don't typically have multiple compartments. 

US Post Company is the largest reseller of Outdoor Parcel Lockers and Cluster Box Unit mailboxes in the United States. We specialize in working with customers to help identify the right solution for your needs. If you have any questions about the new parcel locker requirements or if you need assistance with installation, contact us at: 1-(800) 977-2626 or through our Contact page.  We look forward to working with you!