Need a reliable mailing address without breaking the bank? A cheap PO box can be the perfect solution for small businesses, frequent travelers, or anyone who values privacy and security for their mail. In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover the most affordable PO box options available in 2026, along with smart alternatives that might save you even more.
8 Cheapest PO Box Options in 2026: Compare Prices & Alternatives
Whether you're running an online business through Shopify (plans starting at $39/month) or simply need a secure place for personal mail, finding an economical PO box solution is essential for managing your expenses.
The United States Postal Service remains the most recognized provider of PO boxes nationwide. Their competitive pricing structure varies based on box size and location:
- Extra Small (3" x 5.5"): $13-$44 for 3 months
- Small (5" x 5.5"): $19-$62 for 3 months
- Medium (5.5" x 11"): $29-$95 for 3 months
- Large (11" x 11"): $47-$177 for 3 months
- Extra Large (12" x 22.5"): $75-$360 for 3 months
Pro tip: USPS offers discounts for 6-month and 12-month commitments. Prices vary significantly based on facility location, with rural areas generally being more affordable than metropolitan centers.
Many U-Haul locations offer mailbox services at prices competitive with or lower than USPS. A major advantage is their real street addresses rather than PO box numbers, making them valid for services that don't accept traditional PO boxes.
- Small boxes start around $10-15 monthly
- Package acceptance included
- 24-hour access at many locations
- No security deposit required
While typically more expensive than USPS, UPS Store mailboxes provide enhanced services that justify the cost for many users:
- Real street addresses (not P.O. box numbers)
- Package acceptance from all carriers
- Text/email notifications when mail arrives
- Mail forwarding services
- Starting around $20-30 monthly depending on location
This digital mailbox service combines physical mail handling with modern technology, offering various plans starting at $9.99 monthly. Features include:
- Mail scanning and digital viewing
- Real street addresses in multiple cities
- Mail forwarding and package acceptance
- Check deposit services
This service is particularly valuable for digital nomads or those who want to save money while maintaining a permanent mailing address.
5. iPostal1
Another digital mailbox provider with competitive rates starting at just $9.99 monthly. Their network includes over 2,500 real street addresses across the U.S. and internationally. Benefits include:
- Mail scanning viewable through app or online
- Mail forwarding to any address
- Check deposit services
- Package receiving from all carriers
- Discounts on 6-month and annual plans
Starting at $15 monthly, PostScan Mail offers a comprehensive virtual mailbox solution with:
- Unlimited mail recipients
- Physical mail scanning
- Mail forwarding services
- Check deposit options
- Real street addresses in multiple locations
While more premium-priced (starting at $29 monthly), Earth Class Mail provides robust mail management features ideal for businesses:
- Automatic check deposit
- Integration with cloud storage services
- Multiple user access
- Advanced mail sorting
- Automatic mail scanning
Their service can be particularly cost-effective when replacing traditional office mail handling.
With plans beginning at $15 monthly, Virtual Post Mail offers:
- California, Nevada, and Delaware addresses
- Free envelope scanning
- Secure document shredding
- Check deposit capabilities
- Package consolidation and forwarding
Free and Ultra-Low-Cost Alternatives
If even these affordable options strain your budget, consider these alternatives:
- General Delivery: USPS offers free general delivery service where mail is held at the post office for up to 30 days.
- Friend or Family Address: Using a trusted contact's address costs nothing but requires consideration for their privacy.
- Employer Address: Some employers allow personal mail receipt (always ask first).
- Community Centers: Some community organizations offer mail services for low-income individuals.
For those needing a completely free solution, check out our guide on how to get a PO box for free, which explores programs and workarounds for no-cost mail services.
Choosing the Right Cheap PO Box Option
When selecting an affordable PO box solution, consider these factors:
- Mail Volume: Higher volume needs a larger box or digital service with scanning.
- Access Hours: Some cheap PO boxes have limited access hours.
- Package Acceptance: Traditional USPS PO boxes have limitations for non-USPS packages.
- Address Format: Some services require a "PMB" (Private Mail Box) designation.
- Contract Length: Longer commitments often mean lower monthly rates.
PO Box Options Comparison Table
| Provider | Starting Price | Street Address | 24/7 Access | Digital Mail Scanning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USPS | $13/3 months | No | No* | No |
| U-Haul | $10-15/month | Yes | Some locations | No |
| UPS Store | $20-30/month | Yes | No | Notifications only |
| Anytime Mailbox | $9.99/month | Yes | N/A (Digital) | Yes |
| iPostal1 | $9.99/month | Yes | N/A (Digital) | Yes |
| PostScan Mail | $15/month | Yes | N/A (Digital) | Yes |
| Earth Class Mail | $29/month | Yes | N/A (Digital) | Yes (Automatic) |
| Virtual Post Mail | $15/month | Yes | N/A (Digital) | Yes |
* Some USPS locations offer 24/7 lobby access to PO boxes
Additionally, for online business owners, having a proper business address is crucial. Many virtual phone number services can be paired with virtual mailboxes for a complete professional appearance.
Additional Cost-Saving Tips
- Choose the smallest box size that meets your needs
- Opt for annual payments to receive discounts (often 10-20%)
- Select locations in less expensive postal zones
- Share a mailbox with a trusted friend or family member
- Look for promotional codes before signing up
- Ask about student, senior, or military discounts
For those managing a move, combining a cheap PO box with sources for free moving boxes can significantly reduce relocation expenses.
Final Words
Securing an affordable PO box doesn't require compromising on service quality or features. By comparing options from traditional providers like USPS and UPS to innovative digital mailbox services, you can find the perfect balance of price and functionality. Remember that the cheapest option isn't always the most economical long-term – consider your specific needs for mail volume, package handling, and address format requirements before making your decision. With prices starting under $10 monthly for some services, maintaining a professional, secure mailing address is within reach for virtually any budget in 2026.