Residential Mailboxes - Post & Wall Mount

What Is a Residential Mailbox?

A residential mailbox is basically the kind used for houses, either as a single mailbox or as a small multi-unit setup serving two to five homes. Unlike large centralized mailbox systems, it’s typically placed at the curb, mounted on the house, or built into a column.

Most homes use one of several common mailbox setups:

• Curbside, post-mounted mailboxes

• Wall-mount mailboxes near the entry

• Column-mounted mailboxes built into masonry features

• Parcel mailboxes designed to accept packages

Each option supports different delivery methods and security needs.

Common Types of Residential Mailboxes (And When Each Works Best)

Post Mounted Residential Mailbox (Curbside)

You’ll see post-mounted mailboxes a lot in suburban and rural areas where mail is delivered curbside. Installed close to the street, they make it easy for carriers to deliver mail without leaving their vehicle. 

Getting the placement right is important, since USPS guidelines include recommendations for height and reach. Many post mounted mailboxes fit standard posts and are available in a range of sizes, finishes, and locking options, including larger models that accommodate packages.

Wall Mount Residential Mailbox

Wall mount residential mailboxes are commonly used for urban homes and porch or door delivery. They attach directly to an exterior wall near the main entry.

Common uses include:

• Urban homes

• Porch or door delivery

Before changing delivery location or method, confirm approval with your local post office.

Wall-mounted mailboxes range from basic designs to locking options with upgraded finishes.

Column Mounted Residential Mailbox

Column-mounted mailboxes are often chosen when curb appeal is a priority. They’re installed inside stone or brick columns and are commonly used to create a more polished, upscale look.

Common column mailbox setups include:

• Standard residential mailbox paired with a custom-built column

• Mailbox systems designed specifically for column mounting

Because these installations involve masonry, planning for access and weather exposure is important, and some homeowners choose to work with a contractor or mason.

Residential Locking Mailbox (Anti-Theft)

Residential locking mailboxes help protect mail from theft and tampering, which is important for preventing identity theft caused by stolen personal or financial mail. They typically use a secure drop slot for incoming mail and a locked door for retrieval, along with reinforced construction.

A common theft method involves using strings or adhesive tools to pull mail back out through the slot. Anti-fish baffles are internal metal barriers that prevent this by blocking mail once it drops inside. 

Locking wall mount mailboxes are best for porch or door delivery, keeping mail secured closer to the home. Locking curbside mailboxes protect mail at the street for suburban or rural delivery routes.

Package Mailbox or Parcel Mailbox (Extra-Large)

Package mailboxes are designed to accept larger deliveries, making them ideal for households that receive frequent online orders. These mailboxes help reduce missed deliveries and prevent packages from being left outside.

Many homeowners reference USPS next-generation mailbox dimensions when selecting a package-friendly mailbox.

Typical benchmarks:

• Width: 13.63 inches

• Side height: 7.75 inches

• Center height: 12 inches

• Depth: 16.5 inches

These measurements help guide sizing for common parcel deliveries.

USPS Mailbox Requirements (Placement + Approval Basics)

Mail delivery tends to go more smoothly when you use a USPS approved mailbox and install it correctly. Budget Mailboxes carries many residential mailboxes that meet USPS standards, including models from brands like Whitehall, Gaines, Imperial, and Salsbury.

USPS approval applies to the mailbox design, while placement and delivery method approval are handled by the local post office. 

Common curbside mailbox placement guidelines include:

• A height of about 41–45 inches from the road

• A setback of roughly 6–8 inches from the curb

• Verification with the local post office or HOA

Installation Overview (DIY-Friendly Steps)

How to Install a Post Mounted Residential Mailbox

Post mounted mailbox installation usually consists of the following steps:

1. Choose the correct location based on delivery guidelines

2. Confirm placement with the local post office

3. Set a standard post securely, often in concrete

4. Mount the mailbox using manufacturer hardware

5. Add clearly visible address numbers

Most residential and package-friendly mailboxes fit standard posts.

How to Install a Wall Mount Residential Mailbox

Wall-mounted mailbox installation typically follows these steps:

1. Choose a location near the front door with some weather protection

2. Prepare the mounting surface

3. Use anchors for masonry or exterior-grade screws for siding

4. Secure the mailbox per manufacturer instructions

Before switching from curbside delivery, approval should always be checked with the local post office.

Installation Notes For Column Mount Mailboxes

Column mounted installations often involve masonry work. Proper drainage, weather sealing, and rear access planning help ensure long-term performance. In many cases, a contractor or mason handles these installations.

How to Choose Residential Mailboxes That Fit Your Home

Size: Standard vs Large vs Extra-Large (Packages)

Small mailboxes can fill quickly, leading to stuffed mail or exposed packages. If packages are arriving at your door pretty regularly, it’s a good idea to choose a larger mailbox. General package-sizing benchmarks can help guide that decision.

Materials & Durability (Steel, Aluminum, Stainless, Plastic)

Mailbox materials affect durability and maintenance.

• Steel and stainless steel are stronger materials and can offer more security

• Aluminum tends to hold up better over time because it doesn’t corrode as easily

• Powder-coated finishes help limit rust and fading, which is especially helpful in snowy or coastal areas

Security Features (Locks, Reinforced Doors, Anti-Fishing)

Mailbox security depends on both features and location. Key considerations include:

• Narrow intake slots

• Anti-fish baffles

• Reinforced doors and concealed hinges

• Locking designs suited to theft risk

Style & Curb Appeal (Modern, Classic, Luxury)

Choosing the right mailbox can make a difference in how your home looks. Modern designs usually go with contemporary homes, while classic styles fit better with traditional exteriors. Budget Mailboxes offer several finish options and things like address plaques, monograms, and matching hardware.

Residential Mailboxes for Multi-Unit Homes, HOAs, and Communities

Multi-unit homes and HOA-managed properties often rely on shared mailbox setups. Common considerations include:

• Multi-mount posts with dual, triple, or quad configurations

• Small cluster-style mailbox setups

• Durable construction to handle frequent daily use

• Clear labeling to support accurate delivery

• Defined maintenance responsibility for long-term upkeep