Top 5 Alternatives to a PO Box in 2025
PO Boxes are reliable—but limited. Explore five alternatives that offer real street addresses, digital access, and broader carrier support.
Why Look Beyond Traditional PO Boxes?
Common PO Box Limitations
- • Not a street address: Many entities won’t accept PO Box numbers for certain uses.
- • Carrier limits: Typically USPS only; FedEx/UPS often excluded.
- • Pickup required: In‑person visits during available hours.
- • No built‑in scanning: No digital access by default.
Virtual Mailboxes
Digital access to physical mail with real street addresses and scanning.
Key Features
- • Real street address (CMRA)
- • Envelope previews + content scans
- • Package acceptance (USPS/UPS/FedEx/DHL)
- • Forwarding, consolidation, recycling/shredding
- • 24/7 online access; mobile apps
Typical Pricing
✅ Best For
- • Digital‑first users and travelers
- • Small businesses and remote teams
- • Anyone wanting searchable, organized mail
❌ Consider If
- • You need constant physical access to originals
- • You prefer in‑person service only
Examples
UPS Store Mailboxes
Physical mailbox with street address and extended hours.
Key Features
- • Street address (not a PO Box)
- • Accepts major carriers
- • Notifications for packages
- • In‑person services (print/ship)
Typical Pricing
Coworking Space Mail Services
Business address and mail handling bundled with workspace access.
Key Features
- • Professional address
- • Package receiving & hold
- • Workspace, meeting rooms, community
Typical Pricing
Examples
Commercial Mail Receiving Agency (CMRA)
Local mailbox stores authorized to receive mail on your behalf.
Key Features
- • USPS‑authorized (Form 1583 on file)
- • Street address format
- • Package acceptance from major carriers
- • Potential for personalized service
Typical Pricing
Dedicated Mail Forwarding
Services optimized for consolidating and forwarding mail—popular with travelers and expats.
Key Features
- • Global forwarding and consolidation
- • Optional scanning of contents
- • Flexible shipment scheduling
Typical Pricing
Examples
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Virtual Mailbox | UPS Store | Coworking | CMRA | Forwarding |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Real street address | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ~ |
| Mail scanning | ✓ | ✗ | ~ | ~ | ~ |
| Accepts all major carriers | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 24/7 access | ✓ | ✗ | ~ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Typical starting price | Varies by location; many entry tiers in ~$10–$20/mo range | Varies by store/box size | Varies by market/membership | Varies by store/services | Plan fees + postage/handling |
Pricing changes frequently—confirm current rates and inclusions with providers.
Decision Framework
Questions to Consider
📍 Location & Access
- • Do you want in‑person pickup or digital access?
- • How often do you receive packages?
- • What hours do you need access?
💼 Business Requirements
- • Will this be used for registrations or licensing?
- • Do you need a registered agent separately?
- • Any compliance/privacy constraints?
💰 Budget‑Focused
Keep costs low without sacrificing basics.
🌐 Digital‑First
Need scans, search, and remote control.
🏢 Local Presence
Want walk‑in access and services.
This guide is for research. For hands‑on help sending mail, browse our services.