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Protecting your mail is an important part of keeping your home and personal information safe. We tested a variety of mailboxes to find the best options for keeping your mail secure but only 5 passed the tests and were deemed worthy of being showcased in our review. Read on to find the mailbox that best meets your needs. In our review, we've evaluated their build, storage space, materials, locking mechanism, and the amount of safety they can provide from the elements.
All these have been evaluated from the residential mailbox point of view but it goes without saying that locking wall-mount mailboxes and lockable mailboxes in general of any kind can fit the needs of small businesses just as well.
Listed below are the 5 best locking mailboxes from our list:
- Epoch 7106 Mail Boss Locking Mailbox: Known for its impressive sturdiness and large capacity, this mailbox offers superior resistance to theft and vandalism, featuring a 14-gauge galvanized steel construction and 12-wafer disc lock.
- Mail Boss 7506 Mail Locking Mailbox: Distinguished by its extremely robust build, it presents a secure space for mail along with an anti-pry latch that provides exceptional protection against theft and vandalism.
- Architectural Mailboxes 6200B-10 Locking Mailbox: With substantial space for mail and parcels, this locking mailbox stands out for its resistance to elements, ensuring your mail remains dry and dirt-free.
- Mail Boss 7500 Locking Mailbox: Showcasing a robust structure and ample mail volume, it comes ready for installation and offers a pick-safe latch and wafer tumbler lock for enhanced security.
- Gibraltar Mailboxes Mailsafe Locking Mailbox: As a modestly-sized mailbox with a contemporary design, it offers an ultra-secure cam lock and a magnetic latch ensuring security and a rust-resistant and durable structure for longevity.
Are you looking for a secure and reliable locking security mailbox? If so, you've come to the right place! Here is the list of the 5 best locking mailboxes that you can choose from to keep your mail safe and secure.
1. Epoch 7106 Mail Boss Locking Mailbox – Our Top Pick
After going through a lot of locking mailboxes (We didn’t really, they were all safely locked), we have chosen the Epoch 7106 Mail Boss as our top contender.
Three words can be used to describe the 7106: Strong, Secure, and Huge. It has a capacity of 2375 cubic inches, ideal to keep your parcels and mail safe.
The body is made with 14 gauge galvanized steel and is powder coated. The lock and latch are very hard to pry open. The thick body prevents it from being vandalized. The door itself is 12 gauges thick and mounted on stainless steel hinges. The lock is a 12-wafer disc log.
This big boy is strong enough to withstand a crowbar. It is also waterproof, keeping your mail and parcels safe from rain and seepage. It comes with a mounting plate, making it easier to install.
What We Like
- Very strong and sturdy built
- Easy installation
- Very spacious
- Waterproof
- Very well protected against theft and vandalism
What We Don't Like
- Too big and bulky
- More space than needed for domestic use
- Relatively expensive
- Mail slot is very narrow
Dimensions (inches): 21 x 11.25 x 13.75 | Capacity (cu. in.): 2870 | Material: Electro-galvanized steel | Security Features: Patented anti-pry latch and 12-disc wafer lock with dust cover | Color Options: Bronze, granite, white
2. Mail Boss 7506 Mail Locking Mailbox – A Very Strong Contender
One of the strongest mailboxes available, the Mail Boss 7506 cannot be pried open even with a crowbar!
The thick and robust body is made with electro-galvanized steel, giving it superior protection against rust and looking worn. All the hinges are stainless steel so they won’t rust over time. Its insides are lined with neodymium magnets, allowing its door to latch perfectly.
Internal space is 1760 cubic inches, enough for a few days of mail and small parcels. An advanced baffle door conceals the clip for any outgoing mail, adding an extra layer of protection against prying hands.
The lock is a reliable 12-disc wafer. Three keys and all the necessary installation material is provided with the mailbox. In addition to the baffle door, the 14 or 16-inch galvanized steel body makes it one of the safest choices.
What We Like
- Extremely strong built
- Very easy to install
- Adequate space
- The latch cannot be pried
- Well-protected against theft and vandalism
What We Don't Like
- Not safe against rain, mail can get soaked
- Space not enough for magazines
- Key jamming issues can sometimes occur
Dimensions (inches): 21 x 10.75 x 11.25 | Capacity (cu. in.): 1760 | Material: Alloy steel | Security Features: Patented anti-pry latch and 12-disc wafer lock with dust cover | Color Options: Black, bronze, white
3. Architectural Mailboxes 6200B-10 Locking Mailbox – The Big Box
If you frequently receive parcels, you might want to go for the 6200B-10 by Architectural Mailboxes. With it, you will have a 2256 cubic inch space enough for regular-sized parcels, it also has a fine finish with powder coating.
It is especially protective against moisture and dirt. The doors are lined up with rubber seals, which ensure that your mail is dry (protected from rain seepage) and dirt-free. Also, it helps prevent corrosion inside the mailbox.
The mailbox is made from a single metal piece of stainless steel. The parcel compartment has its own internal baffle. Locks and some internal items are made with zinc to prevent corrosion. It is also very easy to install.
What We Like
- Sufficient space for mail and parcels
- Especially resistant to the elements
- Durable and long life
- Large receiving slot
- Easy to install and comes with necessary parts
What We Don't Like
- Look is very boxy
- Too large a slot can be exploited by small hands
- Larger deliveries can clog the hopper, making it hard to open the mailbox
Dimensions (inches): 18 x 15 x 11.5 | Capacity (cu. in.): 2256 | Material: Heavy-gauge galvanized steel | Security Features: Stainless steel cam lock with dust cover | Color Options: Black, bronze, pearl gray, sand, white
4. Mail Boss 7500 Locking Mailbox – Install Ready & Durable
A robust build, extra volume for mail, and a hard-to-break-in system. If that’s what you are looking for in your mailbox, then the Mail Boss 7500 is your thing. Made with galvanized steel, with powder coating for extra protection against sunlight, this mailbox is as strong as it comes. With a capacity of 1706 cubic inches, it’s big enough for a week’s worth of mail.
Security wise it has a wafer tumbler lock and a pick-safe latch. It also has a baffle door to prevent the theft of small packages. The safe comes with three keys. Another great feature is that it comes with a Fast-Trak mounting plate that can be fitted to posts of various types.
What We Like
- Efficient locking mechanism
- Comes with all the installation accessories
- Large space
- Protected latch
What We Don't Like
- Chances of rusting after a few months
- Affixed plate makes it inconvenient for certain posts
- Design makes it hard to fully utilize the space
Dimensions (inches): 21 x 11.25 x 16.5 | Capacity (cu. in.): 1760 | Material: 14- and 16-gauge electro-galvanized welded steel | Security Features: Patented anti-pry latch and 12-disc wafer lock with dust cover | Color Options: Black, bronze, white
5. Gibraltar Mailboxes Mailsafe Locking Mailbox – Simple Medium-Sized Option
Gibraltar offers this medium-sized, sturdy locking mailbox with a contemporary design. It is ideally made to sit on top of the mailbox post, flat and squat. It has an interior volume of 1450 cubic inches with a mail slot that measures 10 inches across and 1.75 inches high. It is able to accommodate envelopes that are thicker than usual.
The mailbox comes as a single unit, pre-assembled, and simply needs to be mounted on a separate mounting plate. It’s well built, with galvanized steel forming the core structure, covered with polypropylene plastic to make it rust-resistant and more durable. The outside is also coated with an ultra-violet inhibitor, which helps it look as good as new by saving it from sunlight and extending its life.
There is a magnetic latch that ensures the secure setting of the door, and an ultra-secure cam lock that ensures the security of the contents of your mailbox.
What We Like
- Durable built
- Concealed locking mechanism
- Aesthetically pleasing
What We Don't Like
- Locking arm holder is plastic
- Needs to be installed perfectly leveled
Dimensions (inches): 21.6 x 13 x 9.5 | Capacity (cu. in.): 1450 | Material: Plastic | Security Features: Dual-latch locking system and pry-resistant door | Color Options: Black, gray, white, beige
What is the Best Locking Mailbox?
| Product | Dimensions (inches) | Capacity (cu. in.) | Material | Security Features | Color Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epoch 7106 Mail Boss Locking Mailbox | 21 x 11.25 x 13.75 | 2870 | Electro-galvanized steel | Patented anti-pry latch and 12-disc wafer lock with dust cover | Bronze, granite, white |
| Mail Boss 7506 Mail Locking Mailbox | 21 x 10.75 x 11.25 | 1760 | Alloy steel | Patented anti-pry latch and 12-disc wafer lock with dust cover | Black, bronze, white |
| Architectural Mailboxes 6200B-10 Locking Mailbox | 18 x 15 x 11.5 | 2256 | Heavy-gauge galvanized steel | Stainless steel cam lock with dust cover | Black, bronze, pearl gray, sand, white |
| Mail Boss 7500 Locking Mailbox | 21 x 11.25 x 16.5 | 1760 | 14- and 16-gauge electro-galvanized welded steel | Patented anti-pry latch and 12-disc wafer lock with dust cover | Black, bronze, white |
| Gibraltar Mailboxes Mailsafe Locking Mailbox | 21.6 x 13 x 9.5 | 1450 | Plastic | Dual-latch locking system and pry-resistant door | Black, gray, white, beige |
Types of Locking Mailboxes
Wall-Mounted Locking Mailbox
Wall-mounted locking mailboxes are a great choice for homeowners looking to keep their mail secure while also maximizing the use of their outdoor space and thus a very popular option These mailboxes can be attached to a wall, fence, or any other structure, and are available in a variety of designs and colors, making it easy to find one that matches the look of your home and your existing setup, they can match your fence, your home, whilst saving space and looking great. Wall-mounted locking mailboxes offer an entire range of security features, such as keypad access, a hasp lock, an anti-pry latch, or even a combination lock just like any other mailbox so rest assured this type of mailbox doesn't come with any security caveats.
Post-Mounted Locking Mailbox
Post-mounted locking mailboxes are splendid because they have a more traditional look, they are a bit further from the home and thus the distance can be a security layer for you as a homeowner. In this case, arguably the secure mail receptacle can also serve as a decorative outdoor feature as you can get very creative with cool-looking mailboxes, as they are isolated from the home they don't necessarily need to fit the home style. These mailboxes are always mounted on a post and can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, wood, and plastic. These too, just like wall-mounted locking boxes, offer complete security features, such as a keypad lock, a hasp lock, a key lock, an anti-pray latch, and a combination lock for high security.
Curbside Locking Mailbox
Curbside locking mailboxes are a bit more discreet way to keep your mail secure without compromising on design options. These mailboxes are mounted directly on the ground of your driveway or property line, making them easy to access and providing extra security for your mail just like the post-mounted boxes. Curbside locking mailboxes also feature a full range of security features, including combination lock, digital lock, keypad lock, and hasp lock.
Post-Mounted Mailbox vs. Curbside Mailbox
Post-mounted mailboxes are mounted directly onto a post, either on an existing post or a post that is installed in the ground. These mailboxes are generally larger than curbside mailboxes and offer more protection against theft or vandalism, as they are more difficult to access. They are also more decorative and aesthetic and the customization options are endless, you can have them in any color, any style, and you can find mailbox artists to help you materialize your dream box if you so desire.
Curbside mailboxes, on the other hand, are typically smaller and are placed at the edge of the curb or sidewalk. These mailboxes are easier to access and less secure, making them more vulnerable to theft or vandalism. They also lack the decorative appeal of a post-mounted mailbox, they are the more practical, utilitarian, and modern mailbox variant.
Buying Guide for the Best Locking Mailbox
There are some purchases that can spin your head simply because there are so many options to choose from and so many factors to consider when it comes to security mailboxes. Thankfully, a locking mailbox isn’t one of them. You can easily choose a locking mailbox by looking at four simple factors.
Security Features and Locks
The whole point of going for a locked mailbox is the security of your mail. So the first feature you should look for is the security that the mailbox offers. It is smart to go with mailboxes that either have a wafer tumbler locking system or a cam lock, as they both are relatively hard to pick.
You should also look for baffle doors and strong latches so that people cannot pry them open. See that the insertion slot is not so big or so easily accessible that someone with small hands can reach your mail through it, mail theft and mail thieves still are a real concern.
Manufacturing Material
The material your mailbox is made of is also very important. It is not something you replace often so it should be made from strong stuff that can withstand rusting, constant sunlight, and rain. Galvanized Steel is a very desirable material in this regard. But make sure its thickness is 12 gauge or more.
A powder finish is also better than simple paint. It would mean that your mailbox will stay relatively safe from scratches and chipping.
Internal Space Available
While choosing a locking mailbox, it is important to know how much space you will need. If your regular mail is simply letters, bills, and notices, a small mailbox would do. But if you regularly receive parcels, get your medicine delivered, or have a subscription to magazines, go for a bigger mailbox.
A bigger mailbox is also desirable if your mail gets accumulated for a period of weeks at a time.
Protection Against Elements
Another important question: How well protected is your locking mailbox against the elements? Some mailboxes are coated with a UV ray-deflecting agent that protects them from sunlight. Some mailboxes have a non-metal outer layer to prevent rusting.
The most damaging element is water. See if the mailbox you are choosing will keep its contents safe when it rains.
What U.S. Postal Service Regulations Must I Follow?
USPS (United States Postal Service) has set a few guidelines that must be followed while setting up a mailbox, locking or otherwise. Failing to comply with those guidelines means that postal services can stop delivering to your residence.
As per Federal Highway Commission, your mailbox should be 6 to 8 inches from the curb. USPS has a recommendation for the posts as well, 2 inches in diameter for a circular or 4×4 inches for a rectangular post, buried 24 inches into the ground.
Mail slot should at least be 7 inches (10 inches for priority mail or it has to be bent) long and 1.5 inches high.
How Does the Postal Worker Put Mail in a Locking Mailbox?
For a locked mailbox, the delivery person simply pushes in the letters and parcels that can get through the front slot of the locking mailbox. For locking mailboxes with a hopper, larger parcels can be placed without compromising the mail inside.
These mail and parcels can be accessed by the owner using a key that opens the back of the mailbox.
Will the Postal Worker Need a Key?
For residential locking mailboxes: No.
For cluster mailboxes used by closed communities or apartment buildings: Yes.
Where Can I Get Extra Keys?
Mostly, spares are provided with a locking mailbox. If you still need extra keys, you can order them directly from the mailbox manufacturers or their retailers.
Or you can get a blank key and have it cut to fit your lock by a keysmith.
Ground Mount Versus Stand Mount – What’s the Difference?
Posts for your mailboxes can either be buried in the ground, or anchored using bolts on a flat cement slab or the concrete of your pavement.
The ground mount, which has to be buried, is usually 43 inches long because a lot of it needs to be buried in the ground.
Stand mounts are usually 28 inches high. They are also called surface mounts.
Can I Use My Existing Post With My New Locking Mailbox?
Yes. Especially if your existing post is in fine condition and according to the guidelines. You don’t have to go through the process of replacing it.
Most locking mailboxes come with universal fittings that can be easily mounted on nearly all posts. If your mailbox seems incompatible with your post, don’t change the whole post. Instead, buy a universal mounting plate, they are inexpensive and easy to install.
Can I Paint My Locking Mailbox?
Yes. This isn’t against regulation. But be sure to protect the street number decals and the flag on your mailbox. There is also a chance that your mailbox warranty gets voided if you paint it.
How Do I Maintain My Locking Mailbox?
Curbside locking mailboxes are manufactured to tolerate the elements. Still, cleaning and maintaining them is a good habit. Rub and clean the dust off of them. Wash them once in a while. Remember to oil the hinges and tighten them if they are loose.
Check the seals and magnets to see if they are ok. If something is blocking or preventing the proper closure of your doors, fix that. Otherwise, it won’t be as protected from elements as you want it to be.
