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What if an essential document, letter, or financial paper is lost or theft along with the letterbox? The result might be catastrophic sometime! So, it should be your foremost duty to ensure the maximum safety of those documents outside the door.
Nothing can do the job better than a secure and heavy-duty locking mailbox. We were in search of the best secure mailbox. Every manufacturer claims they are the best, but finding out the real one was hard, although we had a team of experts!
We have considered nearly 50 mailboxes over the past three years, and after 23 hours of additional research along with several security tests on 12 new arrivals, we think the Mail Boss 7506 Mailbox is the perfect combination of quality, performance, value, and most of all ‘security’ for a person looking for maximum security of his letters and documents outside the door.
Closely followed by Gibraltar Mailboxes Stanley ST200B00, the Mail Boss 7506 is the best locking mailbox in its category. You will get it strong, well-constructed, secure, large, and stylish. There are still some other reasons to take it as the first choice overriding some super high-end models like Salsbury Industries 3407S-1PGR, which will be explained later in this locking mailbox reviews. Let’s now check a list of some stunning mailboxes of several categories.Comparison Table Of 10 Best Locking Mailbox Reviews
Why You Still Need Mailbox in Crowd of Modern Communication Systems?
Some of us might be skeptical about the necessity of a mailbox on the outside of their house.
The email has been the most convenient way of communication already. There are local post offices too. Why then you need a top-notch anti-theft mailbox? You can ask the question for sure, and there are specific answers.
Did you ever notice that not all the letters are sent through email?
Some are delivered via the postal services. But, it might be hard for the letterbox to accommodate the urgent documents in the multitude of house notifications, and it might be lost or theft.
With a best-quality anti-theft mailbox, you will not only get the letters and documents ideally stored but also secure from being theft.
Best Selection
Mail Boss 7506 Mail Manager Locking Security Mailbox
Never forget when a product stays on the market for more than a decade and receives continuous user appreciation, it does that with the proven features, performance, and total attributes.
A high volume of positive impressions from users is a clear sign that the product is top-notch and user-oriented. However, there are still many facts.
Considering all those facts and other related issues, we have decided to place the Mail Boss 7506 Security Mailbox at the top of our best locking mailbox list.Why Has It Been Our First Choice?
The following writeup will make you understand why we call it the best.
Construction: Strong and Durable
The Mail Boss 7506 is an All-USA made extra-large and high-security mailbox with proven quality to prevent the mail-identity theft. 16 and 14 gauge galvanized welded steel make the box strong and firm!
The firmness is a reason why we consider it over others as there is a severe prevalence of mail theft.
The second best selection (number 2) in our list ‘Gibraltar Mailboxes Stanley’ is one step down considering the material strength from the number one.
Besides, the Mail Boss 7506 unit is USPS approved locking mailbox, which is not clear in terms of Gibraltar. While testing, we tried to find out the issue but unable to collect the information either from Gibraltar's website or from other sources.
As we are not sure about this approval, so we can not give full marks to the second option. But you should not think that the ‘Gibraltar Stanley’ is very poor in quality! It is just one step down to our top selection ‘Mail Boss 7506’ concerning strength.
Let’s come to the Mail Boss 7506 again. Concerning strength, we can keep this mailbox parallel to two or three other mailboxes in our list. But, when we compare other facts, they go one or more few steps down from the top selection.
The electro galvanized welded steel has made the Mail Manager Wall Mount Locking Mailbox break-free! A thief or trespasser cannot break it down even by hitting with a sledge hammer. You will hardly see any dent in the 7506’s body.
Incoming and Opening
There are two different input and output mechanisms - one opening is for incoming mails and the other one for taking them out.
For real security, the door is made with the innovative baffle door design. It accepts the mail or mail bundles or other small packages and prevents the fishing as well.
The mail carrier puts the mail into the incoming door while delivering, and no keys are necessary.
The incoming part of the door has adequate space for putting a small package. But, the opening is tough to deal with unless you have the key. It’s too small that you even can’t enter your finger in it for pulling back the envelope or other documents!
Any forceful entry is prevented with the patented locking mechanism “anti-pry latch”.
Usually, the Mail Boss incorporates this feature in most of its productions. You can find such a brilliant mechanism in some other mailboxes, but they will be expensive than this one.
The incoming part has adequate space for a small package. For safety, the opening is too small, and people can not even enter their fingers into the opening from outside for pulling an envelope back.
Another fantastic feature of this mailbox is that it can’t be opened forcefully with a piece of blunt equipment. The company has employed an anti-pry latch design in this product.
High Security Locking Mechanism
The unit is equipped with a commercial-grade high-security wafer lock mechanism with three keys. It is another reason why we call it the safest mailbox available out there on the market.
Anybody will find it nearly impossible to break the commercial-grade lock, they have to use the keys instead. It does not mean you won’t take enough care of it! You should look after the unit always and keep in a secure place close to your eyes or supervision.
In terms of locking mechanism, the locking mechanism of 7506 is somewhat advanced from most of the mailboxes of our list except for two or three, including the high-end Salsbury Industries 3407S-1PGRY and Mail Boss 7106.User Impression, Pricing, Warranty and Others
If you see the user impression, it will amaze you, literally!
Users have highly satisfied with the unit!
They are well-known as the best locking mailbox residential unit. Thousands of user appreciations (positive) given on different retailer sites are visible proof! While researching, we have found that it received more than 4.5 points out of 5 from the users, which is undeniably high!
It requires no mounting plate, and the stainless steel hinges have made it an easy-to-use unit. It comes with a vandal-resistant flag, floor liner, and necessary installation hardware.
It comes in 4 different colors- Black, Granite, Bronze, and White in addition to 21″D x 11.25″H x 10.75″W dimensions and 23 lbs. weight for each of them.
When you come to the price point, this might seem to be a bit more!
But, we guarantee you that you can hardly find such a brilliant option with these services at this price tag!
Last but not least, there is a Lifetime Limited Warranty, which is exceptional! It will ensure the peace of mind of the users as it indicates the high-confidence of the manufacturer about the mailbox’s strength, security, and durability.
Negatives of the Mail Manager 7506
Initially, when we started our analysis, we thought the unit is waterproof, although the manufacturer did not claim it.
Later, after observing for a few months, we have been ended in confusion!
In a few cases, water insertion made the letters and documents wet. So, we are dissatisfied with this issue. Such a beautiful product should have been equipped with a full-proof anti-water-insertion feature.
Another problematic issue (for some people) is that the mailbox is large to accommodate the mail and document, but not large enough to give space for the magazines. And, like most people, we don’t think this issue as severe as the previous one.
When you lock and unlock the lock of the mailbox, you should be a bit careful so that the keys don’t get jammed inside the box.
Few users have reported that they have faced this problem. To avoid this, check the lock and mailbox regularly. Try to ensure that water doesn’t get into the key-hole, or if entered, it’s dried soon.EDITOR’S NOTE
Despite the adverse facts, you can hardly find another full-service residential mailbox with such a great combination of security, durability, mail holding capacity, and value. We have several high-end and expensive models in our list, but they could not grab the best position just because of the overall attributes of the Mail Boss 7506. We recommend it because it is so far, so good!
Second Best Selection
Gibraltar Mailboxes Stanley ST200B00 Post Mount Mailbox
Some of you might disagree with this selection. Why is Gibraltar Mailboxes Stanley our second-best choice? We have some reasons and understanding behind the decision, offering maximum value for the price is the most important among those.
Why Has It Been Our Second Best Choice?
What was the understanding? You will get a clear insight soon after a complete reading of the following analysis.
Construction: Strength and Durability
Made from galvanized steel, the Stanley is entirely rust-free. Although it replicates the previous design, it is strong, stable, and durable with the ribbed body.
A black finish coated with powder makes the unit more good looking. But compared to Mail Boss 7506, Gibraltar Stanley is less strong.However, it is still durable enough to fulfill the user expectation.
Concerning strength, it's one step down compared to most other mailboxes of this list like the Mail Boss 7106, Architectural Mailboxes 6200B-10 Oasis, and of course, the top-notch models like Salsbury Industries 3407S-1PGRY.
We could give the second-best position to any of those models considering strength only, but for the overall service Stanley offers for the price is excellent, and we mainly consider the fact. And honestly, for the price point, Stanley ST200B00 has the most durable and robust structure.Size and Mail Accommodation
The jumbo mailbox heavy duty unit comes in 15” H x 11.7” W x 24.8” D dimensions and around 11.5 pounds weight. It can accommodate both – the small mails/documents or standard size magazines.
You can use it to deliver the padded mail envelopes and large parcels. This feature is unique for the Stanley and makes it distinctive among other listed models.
It has been well-known for being an extra-large mailbox for packages. The mailman won’t face any problem to put in the mails or magazines in (it happens to many other mailboxes). It’s a source of peace in your mind that none of the couriers is going to face delivery and accommodation problems.Wet & Water Proof
A common problem with the mailboxes is that they do not have an anti wet & water insertion feature. The mail and parcels, therefore, are not protected from being damp by the rain or other wet elements.
But you can rely on the waterproof mechanism of Gibraltar ST200B00. However, we suggest regular checking like the previous one as something might get wrong sometimes beyond the assumption and result. The jumbo rural mailbox is the best locking rural mailbox.
Where you need a large, durable, and waterproof mailbox, especially in rural areas, we think that the Stanley post mount box can be a standard choice. The black- powder-coating finish resists rust as well as withstand the weather elements successfully.Installation and Use
The post mount jumbo size rural locking mailbox is All-USA made unit and comes fully assembled; what you need is just to fit it into a post perfectly. You can easily install it on the wide arrays of the Gibraltar posts (for instance, Gibraltar SDPK0000, or BP000B01).
Pricing and User Impression
The most beautiful parts of the Gibraltar Mailboxes Stanley heavy-duty extra-large rural mailbox are pricing and highly-positive user impression!
If you want our opinion on price, you can hardly find such a worthy unit to invest, at least to date (when this article was updated). The price compared to its provided services is undeniably low! The services will be close to most of the expensive products available on the market!
The expensive options like Mail Boss 7206, Mail Boss 7106, Fort Knox Mailbox, and Architectural Mailboxes can surely provide much durability and security as well as specialized services. But, the Gibraltar Mailboxes ST200B00 provides apparently same service (a bit low might be) at 4 times to 8 times lower pricing, which is undoubted the best part of this jumbo rural mailbox.
However, if you have a handsome budget, then you might go for the other options mentioned already as you can get some of the outstanding features from them for sure.
Our analysis shows that thousands of users have a great fascination over the mailbox, and the unit has received nearly 4.5 points out of 5 from the users. A meager portion of the users has said it to be unsatisfactory.You might deny our analysis but not such a huge number of user feedback, right?
Lock Security, Warranty, and Others
The extra-large package mailbox has a plastic-metal-switch style locking system. For looser or tighter grip, you can adjust the door latch as there is a T3 shape with an aluminum outgoing mail flag.
The total capacity of the unit is 3,175 Cu. In. The unit comes with a 7 years warranty period from the manufacturer “Solar Group”. Their client dealing service is satisfactory.
Negatives of the Gibraltar Mailboxes Stanley ST200B00
Users are the best judge!
They have said some of the shortcomings of this mailbox according to their user experiences. We tested their complaints; our finding says that they were very accurate in most of the cases.
For instance, the unit has been claimed for being loose in fitting. We’ve found it true in some cases. It might be happened either for seller’s packaging and shipping fault or because of tough use. So, it will help if you are careful of it. If you find too loose, you might claim under the warranty service.
This is too large, no doubt. If you want a mailbox only for small size mails or envelopes, then you might be bored to see it. On the other hand, it’s not fit as the urban door mount/wall mount option.
It has been claimed rust-free and waterproof, but there are some reports where we have seen that users said they had faced leakages. The metal is not very dense, and it might face this problem sooner or later.EDITOR’S NOTE
We don’t consider the shortcomings of the Gibraltar Stanley ST200B00 Mailbox deal-breaker at all. Because the benefits have superseded the flaws, it has been one of the most favorite mailboxes within the buyers and certified by experts.
Third Best Selection
Mail Boss 7106 Epoch Curbside Locking Mailbox
The Epoch 7106 MailBoss Curbside Locking Mailbox is one of the latest anti-theft boxes equipped with advanced technology. A good number of user-friendly features have made it a widely popular choice among buyers.
Why Has It Been Our Third Best Choice?
We have said it earlier that the Epoch Mail Boss 7106 could have been the second best choice if that’s a less expensive product! Even if the price were similar or a bit higher to the second best choice, we could enlist it as the second best option instead of the current 3rd position. But, there is no reason for what it can miss capturing the 3rd place.
Structural Beauty: Strength and Durability
The electro-galvanized 12 and 14 gauge steel is stronger than the 14 and 16 gauge steel. That means it’s firmer than the top listed Mail Boss 7506. In our list, another mailbox is made of 12 and 14 gauge steel named the Mail Boss 7206 Package Master.
The steel withstands the weather, impact, and vandalism.
If you depend on the 14 and 16 gauge previous mailboxes, then you should not think for the second time to depend on this unit if material sturdiness is the most priority. The steel is quite durable that ensures the endurance and long-lasting protection of the mailbox. The powder-coated finish looks shiny and protects the main unit from wet and water-related corrosion.
The Epoch Mail Boss 7106 is a USPS approved locking mailbox.
Can you remember what we said about the Mail Manager? It was- “It’s break-free! A thief or trespasser cannot break it down even by hitting with a sledgehammer.
You will hardly see any dent in the 7506’s body.” Be sure that this one is stronger and more reliable than that box. Although it’s a bit higher in cost, it’s tougher as well.
Adequate Space and Locking Safety
The beautiful box comes in 21” x 11.2” x 13.8” dimensions. It ensures adequate space for accommodating the mails for up to four weeks. It might vary depending on the amount of mailing continuity and load.
You can put mail bundles up to 1.9-inch height, and it includes a concealed outgoing mail tray.
It accepts the mail or mail bundles or other small packages (including 1.9-inch wide size magazines) and prevents the fishing as well. The mail carrier just puts the mail into the incoming door while delivering, and no keys are necessary.
The incoming part of the door has adequate space for putting a small package. But, the opening is tough to deal unless you have the key.
It’s too small that you even can’t enter your finger in it for pulling back the envelope or other documents! Any forceful entry is prevented with the patented locking mechanism “anti-pry latch”. Besides, it features a chrome-alloy tempered steel hook cam that ensures added safety.
The unit is equipped with commercial grade high-security 12-disc wafer lock mechanism with three laser-cut keys.
It is another reason why it’s called one of the safest mailboxes available out there on the market. It’s impossible to break the commercial grade lock even with a crowbar. It will help if you use the keys.
But, it doesn’t mean you will keep it without enough care! We highly suggest you taking care of the unit always and keep in a secure place close to your eyes.
Installation
Epoch 7106 comes with the Fast Trak Mounting technology.
It’s a patented mechanism invented by the manufacturer “Mail Boss”. With the revolutionary mounting system, you can install the unit within a few minutes. It’s one of the best post mounted mailboxes. Everything is included required for the installation- drill bit, reflective house numbers, 3 keys, and mounting hardware. Follow the instruction and mount it without any hassle.
Anti-Identity Theft Specialty
Undeniably, the Mail Boss Curbside Locking Mailbox is going to be the best safeguard for you against the mail or identity theft.
It’s more than strong and secured. Already you have got an idea about the strength.
The USPS approved it because of its quality to prevent the identity theft issue. As said earlier, it’s too small that you even can’t enter your finger in it for pulling back the envelope or other documents!
Any forceful entry is prevented with the patented locking mechanism. So, it makes it impossible for thieves to steal your sensitive personal information.
Lifetime Limited Warranty
The Epoch design is a symbol of quality craftsmanship. So, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty. To avail of the warranty, you have to provide the proof of purchase. The warranty covers any manufacturing flaw and moving parts failure under normal use.
They will either repair or replace as the case may be. Remember, you won’t get the warranty coverage for deliberate and/or accidental damage. It won’t also cover the damage done by misuse, rust, finishes, or improper installation.
You can contact them at 1 (800)-589-7990 (9-5 PST) and inform your issues. They consider the complaints case, by case and their customer support is excellent.
User Impression and Outlook
Actually, the first 3 mailboxes are pretty close to each other concerning the user certification.
All of them are literally well-appreciated by most of the users. As you have informed about the first two, let’s come to know about the 3rd one. The Epoch has received huge numbers of positive user feedback. Our analysis result shows that it has successfully received 4.5/4.6 points out of 5.
The rest of the 0.4/0.5 points does not necessarily tell about pure negativity.
Few users, who have said negative about the product, told about their experience on minor faults of the unit. Undoubtedly, it’s been a widely popular user choice. The mailbox looks attractive.
They are available in 4 different colors. You can buy your one from the Black, White, Bronze, and Granite colors according to your test and house outlook.
Negatives of the Mail Boss 7106 Epoch
Already said that there is no serious complaint against the unit yet.
You might dislike the heavyweight feature of the box (40 pounds). However, it won’t create problems for the users. Another thing is that the outgoing slot is a bit wider, which could have been a bit wider for better use. There might be very few additional complaints, which we don’t think mentionable.
EDITOR’S NOTE
Simply, it is a worthy product.You can rely on this mailbox as the safest one available. It has every quality to be considered as the top choice except a little bit high pricing. So, we gave the 3rd best position to it.
Mail Boss 7108 Curbside Security Locking Mailbox
As the name suggests, Mail Boss is the boss in the mailbox production industry. It produces mainly 4 different types of boxes- Curbside Mailboxes, Package Mailboxes, and Wall Mount Mailboxes.
The mail boss mailbox is believed to be the most secure and efficient. Each of the boxes and related accessories is produced in the USA. The Mail Boss 7108 Locking Curbside Mailbox is not an exception.
It’s an epoch design mailbox like the previous one '7106'.
It comes with entirely identical features like that one. So, an additional briefing is unnecessary. As you have seen the key features of the previous one, you should understand every basic. For your quick remembrance, the main features of the 7108 (similar to the 7106) are quoted here-
- 21” x 11.2” x 13.8” dimensions with 39 pounds weight;
- Curbside high security locking mailbox approved by the USPS;
- Electro galvanized 12- and 14-gauge steel for strong and durable structure;
- Anti-pry latch patented locking mechanism;
- Leveraged entry preventive 12-wafer commercial grade disc lock;
- Easy installation with the Fast-Trak Mounting Plate (patented);
- Powder-coated finish along with stainless steel hinges ensure optimum weather resistance;
- Includes 3 keys, drill bit, reflective house numbers, 4 lag bolts, and mounting hardware for installation;
What’s the difference between them? And, why has it been placed in number 4?
Answer is pretty simple. 7108 has a different color than 7106. It comes in Bronze color, where the 7106 is black.
Except for the color, there is no difference between them. For your kind information, there are two other numbers of the Epoch design mailbox- the Mail Boss 7105 (Granite color) and the Mail Boss 7107 (White color).
As the black are sold mostly, so we considered the 7106 topper than this one. We hope everything is clear to you.
Key Benefits
- Strong and Durable;
- Powder-coated finish;
- Easy installation;
- Enough mail storage space;
- Anti-identity theft specialty;
- Lifetime limited warranty;
- Very positive user Impression;
- Stylish outlook;
Mentionable Negatives
- A bit heavyweight;
- Door broken reported by one or two users;
- Bad outgoing mail design reported;
Architectural 6200B-10 Oasis Mailbox
The Architectural Mailboxes is another amazing residential mailbox manufacturer. Elegant boxes from the brand have been widely accepted all around the USA and the rest of the world.
Architectural 6200B-10 Oasis Mailbox, a quality locking mailbox for residential use, is one of their best products. It’s a perfect option for the areas where the weather is mostly rough.
Architectural Mailboxes Oasis Jr. is a real deal for accommodating the smaller to large packages. Being a best-quality post mount mailbox, it’s the safest place for your smaller package mails.
It ensures none of your couriers get missed out of the door. The delivery & access doors are rubber-sealed, and USPS approved. A reliable cam lock secures them.
The body is made of 16 and 18 gauge galvanized steel that provides your mails full security from the not-so-discrete thieves. Also, the steel body is powder-coated, which stands up to anything like wet weather or rust. The anti-corrosive materials are very efficient in their activities.
There are stainless steel hinges for ease of use.
The hinges and rivets make the unit more efficient to receive the parcels measuring up to 10 x 4 x 3 inches or 10 x 8 x 2 inches. You will get it in 3 different colors- Black, Sand, and Graphite Bronze.
The Oasis 6200B-10 requires being rightly placed in their post with their distinct mounting plate. The box is spacious overall and can accommodate the mails up to 4 weeks subject to load. It can accept the large size mail packages.
Like the previous 4 locking mailboxes, it has a lot of user appreciation reports too. We have been bound to declare it as one of the most accepted mailboxes available on the market.Key Benefits
- Vandalism preventive strong and durable structure;
- Anti-corrosive as well as weather resistant;
- United States Postmaster General Approved;
- Distinctive color choices;
- Rain or wet insertion protective rubber seals protect the mail;
- Roomy interior compartment;
- Accommodate small to large size mails/packages;
- Best post mounted residential mailbox;
- Lifetime Structural Warranty;
Mentionable Negatives
- Security is good but not that much guaranteed like the Mail Boss. It can be opened if someone uses a crowbar;
- Mail delivering (incoming) slot is a bit wider;
- Leakage reported by few users. Mails got damp and wet, although a user can get warranty coverage in this case;
Gibraltar Mailboxes DVKPBZ00 Designer Locking Mailbox
Already you have seen a Gibraltar Mailbox in the second top position of this list. Gibraltar Mailboxes DVKPBZ00 Designer Locking Mailbox is another one. We’ve listed it as the best vertical locking mailbox, and one of the best wall mounted mailboxes available out there. It’s designed to meet the high standards as much as a top-notch wall mount mailbox does have.
The Gibraltar Designer comes with numerous features guaranteeing wall mounted mail accommodation, secured mail preservation, and long lasting service.
It comes in 4.8 x 10.3 x 13.5 inches dimensions and 3.6 pounds weight. That means the box piece is small and easy mounting.
The body is made of galvanized steel with a powder coating finish.
DVKPBZ00’s elegant Bronze w/Satin Nickel finish stands against corrosion, rust, and water. The designer has 4 other colors and designs- DVK00000 (Black), DVKGB000 (Black w/Brass), DMVKGV04 (Bronze w/Brass), and DVKW0000 (White).
It features two cam lock keys that allow the carriers to deliver the mail into the locked compartment.
Only you can access it later by using the key. There are two layers in this mailbox – one is outside the box that protects the mail from rain and wet, and the second one is inside that you can unlock only by using the key.
Amazingly, the wall mount locking mailbox costs very low!
Depending on the color and powder-coating, the cost varies from very low to low, which is possibly the best feature of the Gibraltar Designer. It comes with a limited 90 days manufacturing fault warranty.
Most of the users have clearly said about their satisfaction in using this box. Overall, it’s one of the most cost-effective yet best secure mailboxes. So, we didn’t for the second time to give the 6th place of our list.
Key Benefits
- Strong and durable electro-galvanized steel structure;
- One of the most cost-effective boxes available in the market;
- Rust, wet, corrosion, and vandalism free;
- All USA manufacturing;
- Very lightweight yet spacious;
- Two protective coverings/layers;
- Best wall mount mailbox;
Mentionable Negatives
- Too small mail slot, not fit for big envelopes;
- Bronze finish could have been better;
- Complaints against key flaws;
- Strength and durability have been questioned;
EDITOR’S NOTE
The services provided by DVKPBZ00 at such a lowest possible price can’t be anyway better. So, you can consider the negatives very positively. Other than these, you can say the Gibraltar Mailboxes Designer Mailbox one of the worthiest products in its range.
Step 2 MailMaster Mailbox
The Step 2 Mailmaster Storemore Mailbox comes with 28"H x 6.25"W x 13.25"D dimensions.
It is a large storage receptacle for your couriers. The metal-switch style plastic material unit is great for storing small mail to large mail packages.
There are more than one compartments inside the mailbox. And, you will get front as well as rear access to the interior compartments. For security, there are hidden access removable trap door with a safe locking mechanism. You can open the downward for easier access.
Step 2 Mailmaster comes with address numbers, two keys, and mounting hardware. It looks like a real stone made a unique mailbox.
It is a sound mail storage system for those who travel frequently. They are shipped under the Certified Frustration-Free Packaging facility. You can mount it simply on the 4 x 4 post, which you have to buy separately.
Key Benefits
- Plenty of storage space;
- Safe mail retrieval;
- Not difficult to assemble if you are careful;
- Hidden access trap door;
- A perfect for locked mail;
- Stunning outlook;
- Can be used in both- rural and urban areas;
Mentionable Negatives
- It’s reported that the lock-hole doesn’t accept the lock sometimes;
- We never welcome the plastic mailbox construction due to security issue;
Mail Boss 7206 Package Master
The Mail Boss 7206 Package Master comes with nearly the same features as the Mail Manager 7506 and Mail Boss Curbside 7106. So, an additional briefing is unnecessary. As you have gone through the key features of the previous two, you should understand every basic.
You can check the analysis of these two. For your quick remembrance, the main features of the 7206 (similar to the 7106, and 7506) are quoted here-
- Electro galvanized 12- and 14-gauge steel for strong and durable structure;
- USPS approved high security locking mailbox Package Master;
- Anti-pry latch patented locking mechanism;
- Leveraged entry preventive 12-wafer commercial grade disc lock;
- Easy installation with the Fast-Trak Mounting Plate (patented);
- Powder-coated finish along with stainless steel hinges ensure optimum weather resistance;
- Includes 3 keys, drill bit, reflective house numbers, 4 lag bolts, and mounting hardware for installation;
- 21.5″D x 16.5″H x 12″W Dimensions and 53 lbs. weight;
- Lifetime limited warranty;
Only a few things might be quoted new about it. Being a large unit weighing 53 pounds, it can accommodate a massive amount of couriers. The price of 7206 is twice than that of 7106 and 7506. But users have expressed their high-satisfaction with the unit. We could place it over those two, but for the higher-pricing, we refrained ourselves.
Key Benefits
- Strong & durable structure;
- Powder-coated finish;
- Easy to install;
- Enough mail storage space;
- Anti-identity theft specialty;
- Very positive user Impression;
- Stylish outlook;
- Lifetime limited warranty;
Mentionable Negatives
- It has been mentioned by few users that it has sub-optimal design and function;
- Mail delivery into outgoing slot reported (according to few user experience);
- Some users faced lock related problem;
Architectural Mailboxes Black Oasis Mailbox
The Architectural Mailboxes Black Oasis Mailbox is another US Postmaster General approved small parcel fit unit that comes with a patented design. For the internet and catalog shoppers, this is a good option.
Body construction is robust with the use of 14 and 16 gauge galvanized steel. Also, the full powder-coating finish makes the box stronger and more durable. Rubber-sealed doors keep the delivered mail clean and dry. All the hardware is corrosion resistant.
You can easily install the black oasis mailbox into a column, wall, or pillar.
You need to use the Universal Adapter Plate 5530 for 4x4 wood-post installation. Remember, it’s one of the best wooden wall mount mailboxes. Locking is well controlled and safe.
You will be provided with the oasis mailbox keys. The whole outer shroud of this wall mount locking mailbox comes in a single piece to resist the wet and water.
Key Benefits
- 14 and 16 gauge galvanized steel structure;
- US Postmaster General approved;
- Rubber sealed doors;
- Wet and corrosion resistant;
- Enhancing curb appeal;
- Bigger size (18.1”D x 15.1”H x 11.5”W) and medium weight (23-lbs);
- Greater storage space compared with many identical mailboxes;
- Lifetime structural warranty;
Mentionable Negatives
- We are not satisfied with the quality control process – design flaws like lock failure;
- Rust and easy break-in reported;
- Not perfectly vandal resistant;
- Bad consumer service reported;
Fort Knox Mailbox M1-LT M1-LT
Compared to other options, Fort Knox Mailbox M1-LT M1-LT is new in the market. We dissected the user remarks, consulted with the manufacturer, and tested the unit practically. We have a mixed understanding of the unit, as described under the following Fort Knox mailbox review.
With the 11 gauge galvanized steel (0.12-inch thick steel shell), it can provide you higher security as claimed. A high-performance powder coating increases durability. Besides, there is one inch steel welded hinge. Everything is hand-welded, and there are no rivets or spot welds.
The mail slot is 1.75”x 10” with 7.5” recessed slot. In features Slam-Lock, Abloy Lock, and Medeco Lock. The 7 Pin Tubular lock is good for the purpose. You can store mail continuously for 1 week based on load. Total dimensions are 10"H x 10.25"W x 20"L. Last but not least, you can mount it on different post materials.
Key Benefits
- Different structural mechanism with 11 gauge steel metal;
- Heavy and strongly built;
- Lock is standard;
- Rain and other weather resistant design;
- Reinforced lock area to prevent forced opening;
- No place for outgoing mail;
Mentionable Negatives
- Heavyweight (38 pounds);
- Instructions are somewhat vague;
- Said water resistant door, we have doubt (we found it negative);
You have already seen some of the top-notch locking mailboxes out there in the market. We have made the task easy for you by providing the list and analysis.
You can choose any of the listed options according to your necessity. Surely, they will provide your desired services more except for some exceptional scenarios.
How to choose the best mailbox or how to buy a mailbox is a common question that comes to the buyers’ mind when they start thinking of getting a high secure mailbox.
Although you have come to know about the best options, reading the following issues will increase your understanding more:
Types of Locking Mailboxes: What Should You Buy?
There are mainly two different types of locking mailboxes available on the market.
They have specific differences. But, they are effective and efficient in their own ways. Both of them have different working areas and excellence.
The first one is the secure wall mount mailbox, which gets attached to your house or/and office wall, gate, or garage. They are small in size and can accommodate fewer mails. You can easily install or mount them to a specific place within a short time. Also, they cost a bit less than the curbside models.
On the other hand, the curbside locking mailbox is the second one, which is usually mounted on a post (specific or of any type) near your curb. The curbside mailboxes are large-sized, bulky, heavyweight, and they can accommodate a lot of couriers compared to the first type. They are sometimes called lockable post mount mailbox.
They cost more than the wall mount boxes. You might also need to think about a few other types like the white mailbox and vertical mailbox.
How do locking mailboxes work? Do both the categories have similar working process? This question might come to you. Yes, their working procedure is nearly the same. They mostly differ from size, mounting place, price and structure, not the working procedure.
What Type of mail Do You Get Usually?
Figure out the type of mail you usually get before you go to choose or buy a mailbox. For example, if you used to receive small letters, envelopes, and magazines, then you should not purchase a large hopper door or delivery door mailbox. Even you may avoid larger size mailbox too.
On the other hand, if you receive large deliveries like big magazines, books, big calendars, bundle parcels, etcetera, then you should avoid the small delivery door mailbox. At the same time, target the bigger size boxes too.
Mail Amount- How Much Do You Receive Regularly?
Space of the mailbox is a crucial factor to consider before you choose or buy it. Most of the mailboxes come in the market with spacious structure. With a specious structure, they can accommodate mails received regularly for at least 1 week.
Some of the boxes can provide accommodation up to 4 weeks continuously as they are big. Everything depends on the number of mails and other packages that you receive regularly.
We enlisted the best mailboxes of the best manufacturing companies. Among them, the Mail Boss produces large size boxes, where Gibraltar produces the smaller size boxes.
Which Type of Material Do you Prefer?
Materials determine strength, durability, and security!
You will automatically lose the opportunity to get the highest strength and security so that the box doesn’t break-in when the unit is made of plastic. Contrary to this, if you prefer those mailboxes which are made of high quality and long-lasting galvanized steel, then you will get much more strength and durability automatically.
Budget: Always A Big Concern
This is always a vital consideration.
If money is no problem, we suggest you pick the most expensive as well as best quality product to buy.
If you have a small budget, you should emphasize cost-effectiveness. But, never compromise with the quality (as there are mail sensitivity and security issues) for a little monetary benefit.
How Does A Locking Mailbox Work?
Most mailboxes work similarly, of course, they have the same basic. They contain an incoming slot or door through which the postman drops your mails or other curriers. The door does not stay locked and is large enough to receive most of the letters and parcels unless way too big, but still small enough to allow a fishing hand inside.
It is the most common way that a mailbox uses to prevent mail and identity theft. Modern locking boxes feature some additional mechanism, for instance, an anti-pry mechanism that prevents leveraged entry.
With an unlocking key, the mailbox owner opens the mail-removal door of the box and brings out the mails. You will find the removal-door in the front or rear side based on the mailbox model and style.
A piece of additional information for mailbox users is - you will get your incoming mails safe with a locking mailbox, but not the outgoing mails. Usually, outgoing mails are kept in a separate compartment, and that stays unlocked to make those available for postman or carrier. Thieves take the chance and steal the unprevented materials. To avoid the situation, you should use a USPS blue mailbox or take some additional measures.
How Can I Change/Replace My Mailbox Lock?
You will find two different mailboxes - United States Postal Service Mailbox and Home/Apartment Owners Association Mailbox. Both of the locks are replaceable.
For the USPS Mailboxes, the local postal authority has the charge and responsibility of changing a mailbox lock. You have to request them formally, and they will fix the issue subject to their workforce and schedule. Usually, it will take 1 or 2 weeks, which will be longer if that is a holiday season.
When it comes to changing home or apartment owners association mailboxes, the responsibility does not go to the Govt. Postal Service. The association has an obligation, by their set rules, to do the job or supervise it. But most of the cases, you will have to do that by yourself with the help of a locksmith. If you rely on the association, that might cost you higher, and of course, would be slower.
Although responsibility goes to the owner or association, that does not mean anybody can temper the mailboxes, and these are still subject to the federal laws.
Is Destroying or Vandalizing a Mailbox a Federal Offense?
According to Title 18, Section 1705, United States Code, “Whoever willfully or maliciously injures, tears down or destroys any letter box or other receptacle intended or used for the receipt or delivery of mail on any mail route, or breaks open the same or willfully or maliciously injures, defaces or destroys any mail deposited therein, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than three years, or both.”
It confirms destroying or vandalizing a mailbox is a serious federal crime, and you must not do it anyway. If you need to break it or destroy it, please inform your local postal service first. Even if you commit any damage or destruction by mistake, notify the local authority or police immediately.
Can Mailbox Keys Be Duplicated?
Yes, and No - both are answers! You can duplicate the keys a mailbox as long as you own it, and there is no patented right from the manufacturer on duplication. It's best if you don't duplicate a key when the mailbox belongs to someone else.
Some high-security keys have patented and entirely restricted keyways. The manufacturers have control over any duplication of such keys as long as their parents are alive.
What if Your Mailbox is Smashed?
Destruction, vandalism, or smash of a mailbox is a serious federal crime. If you find your one broken, complain to the local authority or police immediately. Even if your mistake makes any such damage or destruction, do the same thing promptly.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Lock on a Mailbox?
You will find a lock even at $5, but the entire replacement may cost your an amount ranging from $30 to $60. The cost differs mainly because of the charging amount of the locksmith you hire.
Is it Illegal to Break into Your own Mailbox?
You are not allowed to open a mailbox when it belongs to USPS. Call them and let them break on their own. You may be charged with a federal crime if you do it yourself. You are requested to notify the local authority that you are going to break your mailbox when it is not a USPS box.
Concluding Remarks
Here we come to an end of our analysis. We tried to focus on every single issue on mailbox that might be necessary for our readers. Although mail theft or identity theft is not a big concern in many places around the world yet, it is one of the most common things in North America, and people are much more aware of it.
We tried our best, throughout the writeup, to give you an idea about which may be the best-possible mailbox for you from a vast number of available alternatives! We are not over-confident, but we think the listed units are efficient in their own ways, and you can rely on any of those.
The Gibraltar MSK0000 locking mailbox is by far the cheapest of the five we have reviewed today. It is a simple yet effective mailbox that will keep your mail safe from intruders. This product is ideal for people who receive periodic mail that is non-sensitive.
I have noticed a significant point that you probably missed addressing accurately!
Though I noticed, the writer(s) throughout the entire writeup has tried to capture the reality of the most potential mailboxes (in their eyes) through comparative analysis as much as possible. I would not deny that they put an outstanding effort to bring a real scenario.
Anyways, what I was telling is that at the beginning of your content, you claimed –
“Closely followed by Gibraltar Mailboxes Stanley ST200B00, the Mail Boss 7506 is the best locking mailbox in its category. You will get it strong, well-constructed, secure, large, and stylish. There are still some other reasons to take it as the first choice overriding some super high-end models like Salsbury Industries 3407S-1PGR, which will be explained later in this locking mailbox reviews.”
I know Mail Boss 7506 and Gibraltar Stanley ST200B00 both are great choice, but how come a top-notch thousand-dollar mailbox like Salsbury 3407S-1PGR stands behind an entry-level hundred-dollar model like Mail Boss 7506 or Gibraltar Mailboxes Stanley ST200B00?!!
That sounds strange!!
You told you would explain in detail. But there was nothing in the following writeup, no comparative analysis between or among them!
Dear Lewis, thanks for your valuable, and of course, very pointy observation.
I was a little surprised that some of our readers (like you) went so in-depth!
Going straight to the answer to your question-
First of all, we strongly agree with your point that such a top-notch unit like Salsbury 3407S-1PGR should not be placed down to those models.
Generally, a thousand-dollar unit with so many powerful features should not be beaten by a hundred-dollar unit, and rationally we did not show those mid-range models beat it.
We only focused on the points where the cost-effective models can satisfy the users, given the fact they cannot perform like that high-tech unit but still can satisfy the users.
Those who can afford an expensive high-end unit, they should for the Salsbury, the best option with every possible high-tech feature and security system. But, as most of our readers might not be able to afford that, we chose alternatives for them. We tried to figure out something that is a perfect combination of quality, performance, value, and, most of all, ‘security’ for the money. The inspiration was carried throughout the writeup.
Hope, you’re okay with that.