POST OFFICE BOX Meaning and
Definition
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A post office box, commonly referred to as a P.O. box, is a secure compartment or mailbox provided by a postal service or private company that allows individuals or organizations to receive and store their mail and packages. Often located at a post office or designated facility, a post office box serves as an alternative to having mail delivered directly to a physical address.
The concept of a post office box originated to provide a secure and confidential means of receiving mail for individuals or businesses without disclosing their actual residential or office location. This is particularly useful for individuals who do not have a fixed address, such as travelers, or for those who wish to maintain privacy by separating their mail from their physical location.
To obtain a post office box, one typically needs to rent the space from the respective postal service or company. The fee for renting the box varies depending on the size and location. Once rented, individuals are assigned a unique box number or combination, which they share with correspondents to accurately address their mail.
Post office boxes are accessible during the operating hours of the post office or designated facility. Upon receiving mail, the postal service typically sorts and places the items in the respective box. Individuals with P.O. boxes usually retrieve their mail by presenting the assigned key or providing identification at the post office counter.
In summary, a post office box is a rented secure compartment that enables individuals or organizations to conveniently and privately receive mail and packages separate from their physical location or address.
