4C Horizontal Mailboxes Provide Defense Against Identity Theft

In October of 2006 the USPS enacted USPS-STD-4C regulation for wall installation mailboxes mandating the use of 4C horizontal mailboxes for new construction. The overriding goal of 4C mailbox was to significantly enhance the security of the mail with identity theft on the upswing. The success of the recently designed F Series cluster box unit gave the Postal Service and commercial mailbox manufacturers a secure mail receptacle to emulate to maximize security of the mail while balancing costs. Now a decade later, it is safe to say that the replication of the cluster box unit to a wall installation mail receptacle, commonly called a 4C horizontal mailbox has worn down the spirits of all unwanted visitors to commercial mailboxes across the country.

4C Mailbox Security Enhancements

The 4C mailbox features many features that make it arguably the most secure mail receptacle in the commercial mailbox industry. The 4C mail receptacle is made of robust powder coated aircraft aluminum which provides great durability and reassurance to the users that their mail is safe in their commercial mail receptacle. In addition to the sturdy construction the 4C mailboxes have tight seam tolerances to prevent unauthorized entry by prying. Another point of security emphasis in 21^st Century commercial mail receptacles is the dual use outgoing mail and letter carrier access door which features an internal anti-fish plate to discourage creative tool assisted unwanted guests.

Subtle Moves to Improve the Security of Your 4C Mailbox

Sometimes, it is the obvious measures that are overlooked that make your 4C horizontal mailbox more secure than other commercial mailbox installations. Therefore, one common sense move like installing the mail receptacles in visible and adequately lighted areas will help deter identity theft. Another security consideration often overlooked is the door identification on the outside of the mailbox doors to differentiate one resident door from another. Most experienced commercial mailbox representatives will recommend a generic numbering pattern as opposed to actual addresses to prevent vandals and thieves from targeting a particular occupant.  It is important to note that generically numbered door compartments do not matter to your delivering mail carrier either, because they do not actually see the front of the mail receptacle doors when distributing the mail.

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