For both businesses and family homes, mailbox lock replacement may be necessary to keep your sensitive information and important packages safe. But, there are a few things that you should know before you order and install a new lock.
Here at Reliable Locksmith, we’ve worked on mailboxes all over the Twin Cities area. Take a look at some of the advice we often share with our clients about mailbox key replacement.
Your first step is going to be to ensure that your mailbox is a private mailbox and not one owned by USPS. That’s because locks on private mailboxes and package lockers can be replaced by the property owner, but ones owned by USPS will need to be handled by them. No matter if you’ve lost your keys, recently moved into a new home or are having trouble with the lock, USPS mailboxes must have their locks replaced by a postal service worker or contractor.
You can tell if a mailbox is owned by the USPS because there will be a label on the device stating that it is a USPS mailbox. Or, if you’re living in an apartment complex, ask your super or property manager. They’ll be able to let you know whether you can replace the locks on your individual mailbox.
Not all lock replacements will be compatible with all kinds of mailboxes, so it’s important to look into your specific model. Some of the most common mailbox locks include:
If your mailbox is exposed to the elements, you’ll want a lock that won’t rust or jam. So, it will be important to choose a model that is least vulnerable to corrosion. Stainless and alloy steel are two good options for weather-resistant mailbox locks.
On the other hand, if your mailbox is located within an apartment building or in a covered area where it won’t be exposed to rain or snow, you may be able to save some money by installing a non-weatherproof lock.
Many residential settings don’t require high security mailboxes because they are within an area that is not accessible to the public or aren’t at high risk of mailbox tampering. So, a basic mailbox lock replacement will be sufficient for most residential security needs.
But for commercial settings, a security upgrade might be a good idea. Commercial grade mailboxes can be designed with security features such as double-layered walls and doors. They can also benefit from sturdier mailbox locks outfitted with a heavy-duty cam.
If you want to make sure that you have the highest level of security available for your mailbox, it’s a good idea to reach out to your local locksmith. Here are a few reasons why:
Reliable Locksmith in Minneapolis-St. Paul is here to answer your questions about mailbox security! We’ll help you navigate whether your mailbox falls under the jurisdiction of the USPS, what kind of lock is best for your current mailbox, and any other issues that come up with your lock such as ill-fitting locks, key extraction, key duplication and more.
We offer mailbox lock replacement for all of the Twin City area including Columbia Heights, Brooklyn Center, Robbinsdale, Lake Elmo, Waconia, and more.