As more and more developers and property managers recognize the need for safe mail delivery, newer and more secure drop boxes keep coming onto the market. After all, packages are prone to theft along with regular mail, and these problems lead to a lack of tenant trust and increased turnover.
Some businesses also need secure drop boxes for items such as library books, outgoing mail, small packages, and even ballots. The right drop boxes will improve customer trust and provide convenience for those dropping off items after hours. Anticipating the need for the secure drop-off of rent checks, library books, documents, and other such items is a good way to build that trust.
The D-Vault High Security Collection Mailbox
This collection mailbox comes in a few different forms, but the function is the same. These collection mailboxes are designed to collect certain items, depending on the model, and the securely hold those items until another entity picks them up, such as the USPS or an employee of a certain business. They can also collect incoming mail, and some models can collect both incoming and outgoing mail.
All D-Vault collection mailboxes have a slot or door for item collection. This door can only receive items, and a thief cannot reach through the door to steal mail, packages, or other items. Some units have a slot for collecting things such as ballots, rent checks, documents, or regular outgoing mail. Others utilize larger doors and are designed to collect packages and other larger items.
All D-Vault collection mailboxes also have a compartment for holding deposited items until pickup. No key is needed to drop off packages or other mail. However, the mailbox owner will receive a key for accessing the collection compartment, which can be checked multiple times per day.
Security Features
Despite different models existing for different purposes, all D-Vault collection mailboxes are made of 16-gauge galvanized steel. This is one of the toughest materials in the mailbox industry, making them highly resistant to damage and tampering.
All D-Vault mailboxes also have stainless steel hinges and locks. Locks are anti-pry posi locks to prevent lockpicking and theft. Keys are also provided so that the drop box owner can access the contents of the mailbox whenever convenient. Generally, these will be keys to the rear loading door, although models with front doors and totes are also available.
The good news is that those delivering mail or packages won’t need a key to use D-Vault collection mailboxes. Only the recipient will require a key.
If a D-Vault collection mailbox will serve as a USPS pickup site for outgoing mail, the postal service may need to install a door lock and have a key. You will also need to choose a USPS-approved collection mailbox and contact your local post office to ensure pickup can begin and runs smoothly. It’s a good idea to contact the USPS before purchasing your D-Vault collection mailbox.
Several Options Are Available
There are several different D-Vault mailboxes available.
As for mounting options, freestanding and pedestal options can be purchased. Freestanding models simply stand alone as they come, and can be mounted indoors or outdoors. The good news about freestanding models is that they don’t need much extra hardware to place.
Pedestal mailboxes are also available, and though they come in two parts, they are fairly easy to install. The pedestal typically is installed first on a flat surface, and then the D-Vault collection mailbox is installed on top of it.
Some models use simple collection compartments, but models with totes are available for easier mail handling by the customer. Totes are good when collecting a lot of envelopes, books, or other items.
The USPS-approved collection mailboxes contain incoming and outgoing mail compartments and can hold regular mail and smaller packages. Only the USPS can access the outgoing mail compartment. Those mailboxes for private use will have one collection compartment.
Several different colors are also available to help match your business, and a powder coated finish will hold off wear and tear for many years to come. Colors such as white, tan, gray, green, copper, and black are available.
Where To Install
The most common locations for such mailboxes are at the front of businesses, or on walls in places such as lobbies and kiosks. It’s recommended that no matter where the location, that it be easily accessible to customers or the USPS. Front-facing and centralized locations in a community or business are ideal. If the mailbox is visible from your most popular parking lot or near a front entrance, it is likely in the right place.
Be sure that the installation site will be free of obstructions such as vehicles, construction materials, shrubs, and aggressive dogs, and that the ground is level. You should also be sure you can maintain and keep the area clear throughout the year, in virtually all weather conditions except for disasters. Generally, concrete slabs, near sidewalks, and parking islands are good places to install.
You’ll be responsible for maintaining your D-Vault collection mailboxes, but the good news is that their durability and security will minimize any maintenance. Be sure to install in locations where damage from vehicles is unlikely, and install in well-lit locations to deter any vandals from attempting to break into your collection mailbox.
If you are unsure how to install your mailbox, see the manufacturer instructions for recommendations on how to install, and which type of area is required. If you are purchasing a collection mailbox for USPS use, contact the postal service before and after installation. The USPS will give you recommendations and will install the outgoing compartment lock as a last step. If the USPS won’t service your mailbox, this step is not needed.
Questions?
At National Mailboxes, we’re here to help developers, property managers, and business owners handle their mail and package needs effectively and safely. If you have any questions, be sure to reach out, and we can also help you plan for the best use of your collection mailbox.
