Unlocking the Secrets of Forwarding PO Box Mail: A Comprehensive Guide

Forwarding mail from a PO (Post Office) Box can be a hassle, but it is a valuable process that ensures your correspondence and packages are delivered to the correct address. This article will provide a detailed guide on how to forward mail from a PO Box and what you need to know about different types of mail delivery.

Can PO Box Mail Be Forwarded?

Yes, mail can indeed be forwarded from a PO Box, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

When Can a PO Box Mail Be Forwarded?

If you are the boxholder, you have the authority to forward mail from a PO Box by submitting a Change of Address (COA) form through the USPS. This process effectively closes the PO Box and helps you avoid any disruptions in your mail delivery. Alternatively, if the PO Box is not being closed, the boxholder can manually forward the mail themselves or instruct the Post Office to stop delivering mail to the box.

What Happens If You Are Not the Boxholder?

If you are not the boxholder and require mail forwarding, you must inform your creditors and correspondents of your new address. You can also request the boxholder to forward mail on your behalf. This action often avoids any confusion or delays in receiving important correspondence.

Forwarding vs. Closing a PO Box

A forwarding order covers all mail addressed to the PO Box. Once submitted, the PO Box will be closed, and the mail can be forwarded to your new address. If you choose to not close the PO Box, the boxholder (or you if you are the boxholder) can manually forward the mail or notify the Post Office of the change.

Understanding USPS COA and Mail Delivery

When you submit a USPS Change of Address form, it is active for 18 months, with 12 months for forward delivery and 6 months for Return-to-Sender (RTS). This means you must either wait out this period or cancel the form manually to avoid forwarding issues.

First Class Mail Forwarding

Only first-class mail can be forwarded through the USPS COA process. This applies to mail with the following endorsements: “Electronic,” “Address,” “Return,” “Change,” or “Forwarding” followed by “Service Requested.” Examples of first-class mail include presorted first-class forever/first-class stamp metered, priority, special, endorsed, or contiguous service lettercards (CSC).

Non-First Class Mail

Non-first-class mail, such as marketing/junk, presorted standard, presorted standard without “or current resident” or “or previous resident,” standard stamp, marketing-type EDDM (Every Door Direct Mail), ECRWSS (Election Congregation Return to Sender Standard Service), ECRWSH (Election Congregation Return to Sender Himobservable Service), charity, political, or non-profit mail, is not forwarded through the COA process. Instead, it continues to be delivered to your old address.

Strategies to Manage Mail Forwarding

To effectively manage mail forwarding, consider these strategies:

Register with USPS Informed Delivery: This service emails you the mail to be delivered, including past resident mail. Use it to request removal from unwanted senders. Google the Return Address: Locate the company's email address using their privacy policy or contact options. Send a request to stop receiving past resident mail. Remove Your Name from Mailing Lists: If you don’t want to receive particular mailers, contact the sender and ask to be removed from their mailing list.

Conclusion

Forwarding PO Box mail is a practical solution for maintaining a smooth correspondence process. Whether you are a boxholder or a third-party with forwarding needs, understanding the process and the different types of mail will help you navigate the system more effectively.