How a virtual mailbox works
You choose a physical mailbox location and complete the provider's onboarding. When mail arrives, the operator normally uploads an image or record of the envelope to your online account. You then choose what happens next.
Receive
Your provider receives physical mail at the mailbox address you selected.
View
You typically see an image of the outside of the envelope or package in your account.
Scan or forward
Request an Open & Scan when available, or have the physical item forwarded to you.
Store or shred
Keep the item for a period or request secure destruction when the provider offers it.
- Open and scan the contents
- Forward the original to another address
- Store it for later
- Shred or discard it
- In some services, deposit eligible checks
- Receive and forward packages where supported
Why CMRA and Form 1583 matter
Many U.S. virtual mailboxes operate as Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies (CMRAs). USPS requires customers using CMRA mail service to complete PS Form 1583 and provide acceptable identity documentation.
Street address does not mean residential address
A mailbox may look like a normal street address rather than a PO Box, but that does not automatically make it a residential address. Banks, government agencies, licensing authorities and other institutions can apply their own address requirements.
What mail can it receive?
Most ordinary letters and many packages can be handled, but carrier rules, package limits and provider policies vary. Hazardous, illegal or otherwise prohibited material is a separate issue.
Read What Mail Can and Cannot Be Sent to a Virtual Mailbox? and What happens if prohibited items are sent to a virtual mailbox?
Can you get one if you live outside the U.S.?
Often yes. International users can use many U.S. mailbox services when they complete the required identity and permanent-address verification. See our guide for non-US residents.
What to compare before choosing a provider
- Exact address and address classification
- Incoming mail allowance and overage cost
- Open-and-scan pricing and page limits
- Forwarding handling plus carrier postage
- Recipient and business-name limits
- Storage rules and package fees
- Form 1583 onboarding and identity verification
- Whether the exact location supports your intended use
FAQ
Can I receive packages at a virtual mailbox?
Many providers can receive packages, but carrier support, size limits, storage and forwarding fees vary by provider and location.
Is a virtual mailbox a residential address?
Do not assume so. Many U.S. virtual mailbox addresses are commercial mail receiving addresses and may not satisfy institutions that require a residential address.
Do I need USPS Form 1583?
For U.S. CMRA mail service, customers should generally expect to complete Form 1583 and verify their identity.
Can non-US residents use a U.S. virtual mailbox?
Yes, many can, provided they meet the provider and USPS identity and address-verification requirements.