NEW JERSEY — In recognition of National Mailbox Improvement Week, observed May 18–24, the U.S. Postal Service is urging customers to inspect, maintain and upgrade their mailboxes to help ensure safe, secure and efficient mail delivery.
“Customers’ mailboxes are the first point of contact for receiving birthday cards, letters and important documents,” said Acting Postmaster General and CEO Doug Tulino. “A well-maintained mailbox helps to ensure that every package and parcel makes it to its intended destination safely and efficiently.”
Each year, USPS designates the third week of May as Mailbox Improvement Week to encourage customers to assess the condition of their mailboxes and make any necessary improvements. Regular maintenance supports timely delivery, improves neighborhood curb appeal and enhances overall Postal Service operations.
Mailbox care tips
The Postal Service reminds customers that mailboxes experience wear and tear year-round and may require upkeep. Common maintenance activities include:
- Replacing loose hinges on mailbox doors
- Repainting rusted or peeling mailboxes
- Remounting loose or leaning mailbox posts
- Replacing or adding visible house numbers
Keeping security top-of-mind
In partnership with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, USPS works to protect the mail, postal employees and the public through enforcement, education and prevention.
The agency offers the following mail security tips:
- Promptly collect delivered mail and packages to avoid theft.
- Report any suspected mailbox vandalism to local police.
- To report vandalism or mail tampering, contact Postal Inspectors at 1-877-876-2455.
Managing mail with Informed Delivery
USPS also encourages customers to sign up for Informed Delivery, a free service that provides digital previews of incoming mail and notifications on package delivery. The service includes daily digest emails with tracking updates and allows users to manage deliveries from one online dashboard.
Informed Delivery is available to residential, business and PO Box customers in eligible ZIP Codes.
For more information on mailbox maintenance or Informed Delivery, visit www.usps.com.
