GREENSBORO, NC – The Postal Service is inviting customers to participate in Mailbox Improvement Week from May 17-23.

In line with spring cleaning, the annual campaign encourages customers on city, rural and contract delivery service routes to enhance the appearance of shabby mailboxes.

In addition to being physically appealing, tidy mailboxes help improve delivery and collection operations.

However, there are a few requirements.

For instance, all mailboxes must use delivery equipment approved by the Postmaster General. Boxes must also be fully operational, designed to protect the mail from weather, safe to use and large enough to support daily mail and package deliveries.

The Postal Service makes this annual request because of the wear and tear that occurs to mailboxes every year.

Some of the 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.

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 should consult with the local Postmaster to ensure it conforms to guidelines applying to flag, size, strength and quality of construction.

For more information about residential mailbox standards, contact your local Postmaster or visit https://www.usps.com/manage/mailboxes.htm.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

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