2025’s Best Locking Mailboxes for Keeping Mail Dry and Safe, Tested

Share

Installing a locking mailbox can be a useful home security upgrade, protecting against package thieves and identity theft. But are all lockable mailboxes created equal? We recently put a number of them to the test, leaving them out in inclement weather and even taking weaponry to them to determine how well they’d stand up to determined thieves. The results? We found the Mail Boss 7536 Mail Manager to be the best overall, due in part to its nearly indestructible nature. But in order to cover a variety of locking mailboxes, we tested different styles, such as wall-mount mailboxes, and included recommendations based on our test results as well as customer reviews and reviews.

To learn what to look for while evaluating locking mailboxes, we first consulted with security specialist Jeff Ketelaars, co-founder of Security Guards Only, an online community for security professionals. He provided his expert insight on how to properly deter package pirates and what to look for in a locking mailbox, and this info helped set our research into motion. Whether you’re looking to ward off would-be package thieves or protect your mail from the elements, have a look through this roundup of the best locking mailboxes to find the right pick for you.

1. BEST OVERALL: Mail Boss 7536 Mail Manager Locking Mailbox
   ↓ Jump to Review
2. RUNNER-UP: Mail Boss 7506 Mail Manager Locking Mailbox
   ↓ Jump to Review
3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Dalmbox Locking Mailbox
   ↓ Jump to Review
4. BEST WALL-MOUNTED: Architectural Mailboxes Designer Locking Mailbox
   ↓ Jump to Review
5. BEST VINTAGE: Polar Aurora Cast Aluminum Post-Mounted Mailbox
   ↓ Jump to Review
6. BEST MODERN: Mail Boss 7412 Locking Security Drop Box 
   ↓ Jump to Review
7. BEST FOR PACKAGES: Architectural Mailboxes Oasis Classic Locking Mailbox
   ↓ Jump to Review
8. BEST CURBSIDE: Mail Boss 7207 Package Master Locking Mail
   ↓ Jump to Review
9. ALSO CONSIDER: Architectural Mailboxes Oasis 360 Locking Mailbox
   ↓ Jump to Review

Our Top Picks

The quest for the right locking mailbox for a home can take some time, especially since there are many good options on the market. To help narrow the field of potential picks, this guide showcases some of the best lockable mailbox options in a variety of sizes, shapes, and mounting styles. One of the following may be what you need for your home.

Best Overall

Mail Boss 7536 Mail Manager Locking Mailbox

See It

What We Like

• Nearly indestructible design
• United States Postal Service (USPS)-approved
• Includes 3 keys and installation hardware
• Holds small parcels 
• Baffle door helps prevent theft 
• Designed for post mounting

What We Don’t Like

• Heavy: may take two people to mount
• Style can feel too industrial for some 
• On the expensive side for mailboxes

Specs

• Material: Galvanized steel
• Dimensions: 11.1 inches high by 10.8 inches wide by 21.5 inches deep
• Security features: Anti-pry latch, baffle door, two 12-disc locks with anti-drill and anti-pick design, front and rear keyed access

Our Ratings: Security 5/5; Build Quality 5/5; Value 5/5

This USPS-approved large lockable mailbox is designed to keep mail and small packages safe while users are away, and it comes with all hardware to install on a post upon arrival. In our rounds of testing, the galvanized steel Mail Boss 7536 was nearly indestructible. After aggressive tampering, we were unable to cause damage beyond a few dents on the top. We spent some time hitting the lock and attempting to pick it, all to no avail. And during a storm, the Mail Boss 7536 kept mail inside the box bone dry.

The interior is roomy enough to hold small packages. The baffle door on the inside helps to prevent fishing from the mail slot, and the anti-pry lock withstood our attempts with a screwdriver, crowbar, and even an axe. Overall, this was the strongest mailbox we tested, though the Mail Boss 7506, also on this list, is nearly identical. The 7536 model is slightly larger, which gives it the edge.

What our tester says: “I was amazed at how well this mailbox stood up to my tests, including chopping at it with an axe, trying to pry the locks with a screwdriver and crowbar, and hitting it with a sledge hammer. It remained nearly flawless, and the locks held tight.” —Amber Guetebier, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Mail Boss 7536 locking mailbox at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Runner-up

Mail Boss 7506 Mail Manager Locking Mailbox

See It

What We Like

• Incredibly durable material
• Keeps mail dry
• Accepts mail and small parcels
• Includes three keys and installation hardware
• USPS-approved
• Post mounted

What We Don’t Like

• Heavy: may require more than one to mount 
• Utilitarian style may not appeal to some

Specs

• Material: Galvanized steel
• Dimensions: 11.3 inches high by 10.8 inches wide by 21 inches deep
• Security features: Anti-pry latch, baffle door, two 12-disc wafer locks, anti-drill locks, anti-pick mechanism, front and rear keyed access

Our Ratings: Security 5/5; Build Quality 5/5; Value 5/5

The heavy-duty, post-mounted Mail Boss 7506 is a worthy option for anyone hoping to keep packages and mail secure. Like the Mail Boss 7536, which took best overall, this locking mailbox is made of extremely heavy-duty galvanized steel that endured rigorous testing. Additionally, the locks were difficult to pick or smash open—and oh, how we tried. In many ways, it is identical to the 7536 model, but is slightly smaller. It also features those 12-disc wafer locks with anti-pick and anti-drill ratings.

This model provides extra protection for mail with the inclusion of an interior baffle door. This helps prevent fishing and helps keep the mail nice and dry, which it did beautifully during testing. There is also an anti-pry latch so the mailbox cannot be forced open with a prying tool, like a screwdriver or the crow bar we used in testing. 

Get the Mail Boss 7506 locking mailbox at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Bang for the Buck

Dalmbox Locking Mailbox

See It

What We Like

• Easy to install with included hardware 
• Attractive: fits a variety of home designs
• Mounts to wall near door 
• Kept mail dry in inclement weather during testing
• Good cost value

What We Don’t Like

• Small: can’t hold packages 
• Dented easily during testing
• Requires wall mounting

Specs

• Material: Galvanized steel
• Dimensions: 12.6 inches high by 10.2 inches wide by 3.7 inches deep
• Security features: Locking

Our Ratings: Security 4/5; Build Quality 3/5; Value 5/5 

For a basic wall-mounted mailbox that won’t cost a fortune, we recommend Dalmbox’s locking mailbox, which held up well to testing. This small locking mailbox kept the mail inside dry during a storm and includes installation hardware to make installation easy. 

The material is a coated galvanized steel, but it’s relatively thin compared to other locking mailboxes. We found it caved instantly under the axe and did not stand up well to the hammer. Heavy hitting did cause the lid to pop open and off, despite the fact that it was locked. 

Before testing the mailbox with blunt force, we spent time trying to pick and pry the lock open and were unsuccessful. Because of this, the mailbox does the job it is set out to do: it keeps mail dry and prevents easy theft, so we feel it does add a measure of security. It has a simple, attractive design that goes with any style of home and will provide more peace of mind than a non-lockable mailbox. 

What our tester said: “Although this wasn’t as sturdy as the post-mounted mailboxes I tested during heavy hitting, I liked how dry it kept the mail and felt that overall it would stand up to would-be thieves, as long as they aren’t on your porch wielding an axe or a sledgehammer. If they are, you might have bigger problems.”—Amber Guetebier, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Dalmbox locking mailbox at Amazon.

Best Wall-Mounted

Architectural Mailboxes Designer Locking Mailbox

See It

What We Like

• Mounts to wall near front door 
• Simple installation with hardware included
• Includes two keys 
• Good budget-tier option

What We Don’t Like

• Won’t hold larger packages 
• Material caved during (excessive) testing

Specs

• Material: Galvanized steel
• Dimensions: 12.6 inches high by 9.7 inches wide by 4.4 inches deep
• Security features: Locking

Our Ratings: 4/5; Build Quality 3.5/5; Value 5/5

If you’re in the market for a wall-mounted locking mailbox, the Architectural Mailboxes Designer model is an excellent choice. It includes all the necessary mounting hardware to install it on your porch under the watchful eye of a security camera or near your front door. The mailbox itself is made of a strong galvanized steel that held up relatively well during tests, though it did not endure as well as some of the more heavy-duty, post-mounted models on this list. The material did cave under the heave of an axe. The lock was fairly difficult to pick, though we did manage to get it open by hitting it with a hammer repeatedly. 

The mailbox itself kept the mail inside dry despite a major storm. The mailbox includes an optional vintage-style plaque that reads “mail,” which can be placed anywhere on the front of the mailbox or left off for a more modern, streamlined look. The mailbox also comes in several colorways including black with brushed black, black with bronze or silver, as well as white and silver.

Get the Architectural Mailboxes Designer locking mailbox at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Wayfair.

More Great Options

With so many options for locking mailboxes, we weren’t able to test as many as we would’ve liked. We hope to test the following models someday, but their excellent reviews and ratings convinced us they’re worthy picks for folks looking for other styles and types of locking mailboxes.

Best Vintage

Polar Aurora Cast Aluminum Post-Mounted Mailbox

See It

What We Like

• Water-resistant aluminum holds up to the elements
• Vintage style looks good with older homes
• Variety of colors available 
• Suitable for large envelopes, magazines, and small packages

What We Don’t Like

• Fairly expensive, though high-quality
• Heavy: may require help to mount
• Style is not for everyone
• No red flag for outgoing mail

Specs

• Material: Cast aluminum and steel 
• Dimensions: 46 inches high (including pedestal) by 14 inches wide by 9.8 inches deep 
• Security features: Locking mail compartment 

Those who are interested in a statement piece that also functions as a locking mailbox may want to consider this sophisticated option from Polar Aurora. This aesthetically pleasing curbside mailbox is made of water-resistant cast aluminum and steel with a powder-coated finish to withstand the elements long term. Its mail compartment is suitable for small to large envelopes, magazines, and small packages. 

Approved by the United States Postal Service, this pedestal model is 46 inches high, comes with a locking access door and two keys, and is offered in three color options to match a home’s current exterior fixtures. Plus, all the necessary installation hardware is included with the purchase. Though this model comes with many fine attributes, it does not come with a red flag for outgoing mail.

Get the Polar Aurora locking mailbox at Amazon or Wayfair.

Best Modern

Mail Boss 7412 Locking Security Drop Box

See It

What We Like

• Powder-coated finish designed to endure the elements 
• Includes 3 laser-cut keys for multiple users
• Available in a variety of colorways 

What We Don’t Like

• Cannot hold larger packages and parcels
• Vulnerable to picking, drilling, and prying

Specs

• Material: Galvanized steel 
• Dimensions: 16.2 inches high by 11.2 inches wide by 4.7 inches deep 
• Security features: 12-disc wafer lock and anti-pry latch

If your goal is to replace an old wall-mount mailbox with a new locking mailbox, but a bland, forgettable design isn’t appealing, take a look at the various color and style options offered with the Mail Boss 7412. Each model has a different powder-coated finish that users can match with the outside of their home and their personal tastes. Plus, the mailbox comes with steel hinges for ease of use and durability.

The locking mailbox measures 16.2 inches high by 11.2 inches wide by 4.7 inches deep, and it comes with three laser-cut keys for the household. The sturdy 16-gauge galvanized steel body, patented anti-pry latch, and chrome alloy-tempered steel hook cam are all great vandalism deterrents. The mailbox comes with mounting screws and drill bits, so users have everything necessary to install it as soon as it arrives.

Get the Mail Boss 7412 locking mailbox at Amazon or Lowe’s.

Best for Packages

Architectural Mailboxes Oasis Classic Locking Mailbox

See It

What We Like

• Powder-coated finish resists exposure 
• Multiple security features to keep mail safe
• Hopper drawer to allow for larger packages 

What We Don’t Like

• High-volume mailboxes can be more appealing to thieves

Specs

• Material: Galvanized steel 
• Dimensions: 15.2 inches high by 11.5 inches wide by 18.1 inches deep 
• Security features: Anti-pry latch, baffle door, stainless steel tamper-proof lock, anti-pick mechanism

For those who frequently order items online and worry about parcel safety when they aren’t at home, the extra-large capacity and specialized features of this parcel mailbox can help.

The locking mailbox can accept small to medium parcels up to 9.75 inches long by 6.5 inches wide by 2 inches high. The entire box measures 15.2 inches high by 11.5 inches wide by 18.1 inches deep, giving users more than enough space for multiple package deliveries and an average volume of mail.

Once delivered, the packages are protected by the heavy-duty 16- and 18-gauge galvanized steel mailbox, an anti-pry latch, an anti-fishing hopper door, and a pick-resistant stainless steel lock that can only be opened using one of the two included keys.

The doors of the locking mailbox have weather-resistant rubber seals to keep the mail dry and stainless steel hardware that is naturally rust-resistant, so users don’t have to worry about the mailbox becoming stuck in the open or closed position.

Get the Architectural Mailboxes Oasis Classic locking mailbox at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Upgrade Pick

Mail Boss 7207 Package Master Locking Mailbox

See It

What We Like

• Durable construction withstands exposure to the elements 
• High-security mailbox comes with multiple safety features
• Accommodates small packages and high volume of mail

What We Don’t Like

• Expensive compared with other similar options
• Outgoing mail may be more attractive to thieves

Specs

• Material: Galvanized steel 
• Dimensions: 16.5 inches high by 12 inches wide by 21.5 inches deep
• Security features: Anti-pry latch, baffle door, 12-disc wafer lock, anti-drill lock, anti-pick mechanism

This Mail Boss unit is a pricey addition to a home, but it has a strong, durable design that justifies the cost. The stainless steel hinges resist the elements well, and the 12- and 14-gauge electro-galvanized welded steel body prevents forced break-ins.

The anti-pry latch keeps out thieves who may try to pry the mailbox open, while the 12-disc wafer lock is rated for anti-pick and anti-drill security, and it’s made with flame-hardened steel. The mailbox has a large package slot that accepts items up to 10.5 inches long by 4.5 inches high by 4.5 inches wide.

A larger slot size can encourage fishing because the opening appears wider and easier to access, but the mail shield mechanism within this mailbox prevents this type of theft. Setting up the mailbox is easy, too, thanks to Mail Boss’s patented Fast-Track mounting plate for quick installation.

Get the Mail Boss 7207 locking mailbox at Amazon.

Also Consider

Architectural Mailboxes Oasis 360 Locking Mailbox

See It

What We Like

• Includes four keys 
• Has predrilled 4-inch by 10-inch holes for mounting
• Built-in mail clip to keep outgoing mail
• Durable, heavy-gauge galvanized construction 

What We Don’t Like

• Mounting hardware and post are not included

Specs

• Material: Galvanized steel 
• Dimensions: 11.5 inches high by 11.4 inches wide by 20 inches deep 
• Security features: Locking, front and rear keyed access 

Those who want a simple and safe mailbox will want to take a look at the Architectural Mailboxes Oasis 360 locking mailbox. This model provides both front and rear access for receiving mail, is made with powder-coated galvanized steel inside and out, has a red flag, and has predrilled 4-inch by 10-inch mounting holes for its post-mount installation. The box itself measures 11.5 inches high by 11.4 inches wide by 20 inches deep, and the magnetic door accepts parcels of up to 9.5 inches wide by 3.5 inches long by 2.5 inches high. 

This versatile mailbox is capable of holding small to large envelopes, magazines, and small parcels, and it comes with four keys for multiple users to access their mail. Plus, it has a mail clip that keeps outgoing envelopes in plain sight. The only downside to this option is that it does not come with the mounting bracket or hardware for installation. 

Get the Architectural Mailboxes Oasis 360 locking mailbox at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Wayfair.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose and Tested the Best Locking Mailboxes

We curated this selection of the best locking mailboxes through extensive testing, research, and a focus on several top factors that impact the security, quality, and functionality of the locking mailbox. We interviewed security specialist Jeff Ketelaars, co-founder of Security Guards Only, an online community for security professionals, who provided his expert insight on how to properly deter package pirates. He suggested that “choosing the right locking mailbox for your needs will be effective at preventing mail theft as [it] mainly acts as a deterrent to potential thieves.” He went on to say that “Although the design may not be 100 percent effective in preventing hacking, someone looking to steal mail will usually skip the locked boxes and try for an easier grab elsewhere.”

The top consideration when selecting these products was the security of the mailbox, including the style of lock, the construction material, and any security features like baffle doors and anti-pry latches. We spent hours testing each mailbox for durability. We attempted to break into, smash, and pry open each mailbox, using heavy tools such as an axe, sledge hammer, standard hammer, and screwdriver. For added tenacity, we asked two teenage boys to have a go at each mailbox, and each attempted to pick the locks. 

We also put mail in each box and left them out in a rain storm as well as during a heavy snowfall to determine how waterproof the boxes were. 

The list of top picks includes several locking mailboxes with varying types, sizes, and shapes to provide a range of choices to suit a variety of users. However, some attention was also given to products that stood out with unique aesthetic features, proving that products can look great without sacrificing functionality.

What to Consider When Choosing a Locking Mailbox

Before choosing the first locking mailbox that seems appealing, it’s worth considering various features and product factors. Factors that can impact the design type, durability, and overall security of household mailboxes include the material, security features, weather resistance, installation procedures, and aesthetics. 

Taking some time to think about the type, size, and quantity of mail that you typically receive also can help narrow the options, making it easier to find the perfect locking mailbox for your home.

Type

Locking mailboxes are typically one of three different types: wall-mounted mailboxes, curbside locking mailboxes, and tower-style drop boxes.

• Wall-mounted mailboxes are secured to a boundary wall or to a house. This type will generally come with mounting brackets that can fasten to brick in order to securely attach the mailbox to the gate, garage, or house.
• Curbside locking mailboxes are typically installed on wooden or metal posts, though some service curbside locking mailbox models are installed on top of a concrete pillar. These curbside mailboxes are located near the curb, making them convenient for the mail carrier and the user. Due to the location, it reduces the likelihood and need for mail carriers to walk up to the front door.
• Tower-style drop boxes are freestanding mailboxes that are made up of a tall, tower-style drop box that sits on a broad, heavy base. For enhanced security and to prevent the entire mailbox from being picked up and loaded into a passing vehicle, it’s advised to use a mounting plate and heavy-duty bolts to attach the mailbox base to the ground.

Security

The main point of having a locking mailbox is to keep mail and packages secure after they have been delivered by the mail carrier, so it makes sense to look for an anti-theft mailbox that has high-quality security features to deter would-be thieves. 

Consider the size of the mail slot opening, whether a key lock suits your needs better than a combination lock, and if premium security features—such as anti-pry latches, baffle doors, anti-drill locks, and anti-pick locks—are necessary for the neighborhood.

• Mail slots may provide an opening for a hand or a tool to reach into the mailbox and steal the mail, so it’s recommended to look for a product with a small opening or a baffle door, which prevents thieves from reaching into the storage compartment.
• Anti-pry latches will also stop thieves from using screwdrivers and pry bars to wrench open the compartment.
• A mailbox with lock and key can be equipped with anti-drill and anti-pick mechanisms that help to prevent would-be thieves from breaking into the mailbox. However, if the key is lost and it falls into the wrong hands, then the mailbox may be vulnerable.
• Combination locks can only be opened with the correct combination, so there’s no need to worry about keeping track of a key, but a determined thief could sit outside a home while everyone inside is asleep and test every combination until they find the correct code. Both key and combination systems have their benefits and drawbacks, but a key lock tends to be more secure.

Type and Quantity of Mail

Given that the purpose of a locking mailbox is to keep the mail secure, it’s necessary to consider the type of mail you typically receive and the quantity of mail that may be delivered before the mailbox is emptied. Otherwise, the mail carrier may be forced to leave mail and packages outside the mailbox where they are vulnerable to porch pirates and other mail thieves.

Look for a locking mailbox with a substantial storage compartment to accommodate the usual volume of mail, and consider whether a mailbox that is equipped with an oversize mail slot is needed in order to securely receive small packages.

Weather Resistance

Most locking residential mailboxes are installed outdoors so that the mail carrier has access in order to deliver mail and other packages. However, this also means that the mailbox is exposed to wind, rain, snow, and sleet, so it’s necessary to look for a unit with substantial weather resistance to survive for more than a few years outside a home.

Plastic and aluminum locking mailboxes have the highest level of weather resistance. Though there’s no need to worry about rusting and corrosion, these materials are relatively fragile, so a determined thief could break them apart to access the mail.

Stainless steel and galvanized steel are much more difficult to break into, but they are more vulnerable to rusting and corrosion.

It’s best to look for a high-quality stainless steel or a galvanized steel locking mailbox for the best protection against thieves and weather conditions. A metal post is also a better option than a wooden post when it comes to longevity and security, though these posts are more pricey. In addition, it’s important for homeowners to consider if a mailbox is fire-resistant. Unlike fireproof safes, for example, most mailboxes are not designed to be fireproof, although heavy-duty galvanized steel can provide some fire resistance. 

Aesthetic

Choosing a locking mailbox with a charming aesthetic appearance that doesn’t detract from the exterior design can enhance the appearance of a home. The mailbox aesthetic can range from a design that is intended to mimic official government mailboxes to more modern locking mailboxes with creative designs that look more like lawn ornaments than mailboxes.

Mailboxes don’t need to be flashy or official to have curb appeal. There are also classic aesthetic styles that have vintage Victorian, postmodern, or contemporary looks. 

While aesthetics aren’t usually the most important factor in choosing a locking mailbox, it’s important to be happy with how a new mailbox looks. Take some time to figure out what style is the most appealing based on your personal preferences and your home’s exterior design.

Installation

The type of mailbox typically dictates the difficulty of the installation, though there is some variety between curbside locking mailboxes depending on whether they’re configured for wooden posts, metal posts, or brick pillars.

• Wall-mounted locking mailboxes typically have one or two mounting brackets, masonry wall plugs, and bolts or screws in order to fasten the mailbox to the wall. Installing this type of mailbox will usually require a drill, screwdriver, and hammer.
• Curbside locking mailboxes can be difficult to install because they must be fastened to a mounting plate, then attached to a post or pillar to secure the mailbox and prevent theft. Wooden and metal posts should be installed in the ground with concrete, similar to the installation method used for a fence post. A brick pillar needs to be sturdy enough for at least four mounting screws to be driven through the top. Use masonry plugs and mounting screws/bolts to secure the mailbox to the pillar.
• Tower-style drop boxes are the least difficult to install. It’s advised to secure the mailbox to the ground with a mounting plate in order to be sure that the mailbox cannot be picked up and carried away or loaded into a nearby vehicle.

A locking mailbox usually comes with the necessary mounting brackets, screws, and bolts. Always check the included installation instructions before proceeding.

Ketelaars shared an expert tip with us to keep in mind during installation: “Placing the mailbox within sightlines from the front of your house or in line with a security camera can also help you better monitor activity.”

FAQs

Just because you own a locking mailbox doesn’t necessarily mean that you understand exactly how it works. Even after reading this guide, you may still have questions about how to access the mailbox and what differentiates a locking mailbox from a standard mailbox. Keep reading for the answers to these questions and additional commonly asked questions about locking mailboxes.

Q. What is a locking mailbox?

A locking mailbox is a type of mailbox that is equipped with a lock in order to prevent mail theft. They come in several different styles, so the door to unlock the mailbox may be in the front, side, or back of the mailbox. Choose a style that suits your preferences. 

Q. Are locking mailboxes secure?

Locking mailboxes are made for the purpose of keeping your mail secure by using a locking mechanism that must be opened with a key or combination in order to access the mail. Just as you may want door or window alarms, a locking mailbox helps deter theft. While they can still be broken into with the proper tools and enough effort, locking mailboxes are significantly more secure than a standard mailbox. 

Q. How does the mail carrier get into a locked mailbox?

The mail carrier doesn’t need access to an individual locking mailbox in order to deliver the mail. They can drop the mail through a mail slot and the mail will sit in the locked compartment, out of reach of the mail carrier.
Unfortunately, this means that any outgoing mail is vulnerable to theft while it is waiting to be picked up by the mail carrier. This can be avoided by simply dropping outgoing mail in a nearby postal box instead of leaving it in your personal mailbox for collection.
For locked community mailboxes, the mail carrier has what is known as an arrow key, which opens the entire bank of mailboxes in order to make deliveries.

Q. How do I change my mailbox lock?

In most cases, a locksmith should be hired to properly change the lock on a curbside, freestanding, or wall-mounted locking mailbox in order to ensure that the mailbox is secure. However, if you have some experience with changing locks, you can do it yourself.
Drill through the locking mechanism, taking care not to damage the housing. This will allow you to open the lock without a key in order to gain access to the back of the lock.
Remove the clip that is holding the lock in place and take out the interior components of the lock.
Replace the old lock by sliding the new lock through the lock housing and securing the locking clip to prevent the lock from moving or shifting.
Close the mailbox and test the lock with the new key.

Q. Which is better, a plastic or metal mailbox?

A metal mailbox, especially one made of heavy gauge galvanized steel, will not only stand up to weather, but can be harder to break into than plastic. 

Q. Do aluminum mailboxes rust?

Most aluminum mailboxes are coated with rust-resistant paint and will last for years without rusting. 

Q. What size mailbox should I get?

The size of your mailbox will depend largely on how many packages or larger parcels you get on a regular basis. The more you receive, the larger mailbox you will need. In addition, if you travel frequently, you may want a mailbox that can accommodate several days’ worth of mail. 

Q. How do you get mail out of a locked mailbox?

Locking mailboxes offer a variety of ways to retrieve your mail. Most of them feature a door in the front of the mailbox that allows the user to access the mail inside. Some have an additional rear-locking door.

Meet the Tester

Amber Guetebier is a writer and plant nerd who also happens to be the mother to a hockey-playing teenager. When tasked with testing locking mailboxes, she enlisted said teenager and a couple of teammates, armed them with hammers, screwdrivers, and axes, and they all went to town on the mailboxes. Despite looks from the neighbors during the axe-wielding phase of testing, overall, the tests proved just what a mailbox can endure. When not destroying large metal objects for Bob Vila, she is a product tester and garden writer.

 

Save Energy While Staying Cozy

Today’s energy-efficient space heaters warm individual rooms, so users needn’t heat unoccupied areas of the house. We tested the most popular space heaters on the market to find out which ones performed the best.

SEE OUR FAVORITES