USPS: Spring cleaning for mailbox week
In recognition of Mailbox Improvement Week on May 21-27, the U.S. Postal Service asked all homeowners to inspect and repair their mailboxes.
“Repairing suburban and rural mailboxes improves the appearance of our community and makes delivering and receiving mail safer for our carriers and customers,” Florida 2 District Manager Richie Fermo said.
The Postal Service makes the annual request because of the wear and tear that occurs to mailboxes every year.
“This is especially important after the effects of the last winter and hurricane season,” he said.
Some typical activities homeowners may need to do include:
– Replacing loose hinges on a mailbox door.
– Repainting a mailbox that may have rusted or has started to peel.
– Remounting a loosened mailbox post.
– Replacing or adding house numbers.
“If a homeowner plans to install a new mailbox or replace a worn one, he or she must use only Postal Service-approved traditional, contemporary or locking full/limited service mailboxes,” Fermo said. “Customers must be careful when purchasing curbside mail receptacles because the use of unapproved boxes is prohibited. Customers may use a custom-built mailbox, but they must consult with their local Post Office to ensure it conforms to guidelines applying to flag, size, strength and quality of construction.”
For more information, homeowners can contact their local Postmaster.