Things You Can’t Get Delivered Without a Locking Mailbox

Table of Contents:

Government-Issued Mail Needs a Locking Mailbox for Extra Protection
Certain Medications Won’t Be Delivered Without a Locking Mailbox
Business Documents and Payments Require a Locking Mailbox for Security
You Might Not Be Eligible for USPS Parcel Locker Delivery Without a Locking Mailbox
Insurance Claims and Bank Documents Could Be Delayed Without a Locking Mailbox
Packages With a High Declared Value May Require a Locking Mailbox for Secure Delivery
A Modern Locking Mailbox That Works and Looks Good
Locking Mailbox FAQs
More Locking Mailbox Resources From the Post & Porch Blog

When you think about a locking mailbox, the first thing that probably comes to mind is mail theft. And sure – keeping your deliveries secure is the whole point. But what many modern homeowners don’t realize is that a locking mailbox isn’t just a “nice-to-have” for bonus security. In many cases, a locking mailbox is a requirement for receiving some deliveries.

From government-issued documents to certain prescription medications, here are some of the most surprising things you can’t get delivered (or shouldn’t) without a locking mailbox – plus how a modern mailbox with built-in locking security can help give you peace of mind.

Government-Issued Mail Needs a Locking Mailbox for Extra Protection

Think: social security checks, ballots, and even passports.

While some government services are going digital, many critical documents still arrive in your mailbox. According to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, identity thieves often target mailboxes to steal Social Security documents, unemployment checks, and even voter registration cards. Some states also mail absentee ballots and tax refunds.

If you don’t have a locking mailbox, you risk losing access to:

IRS documents
Social Security or Medicare correspondence
Voter registration and election ballots
Passport renewals or other mailed credentials

In many cases, these items won’t be resent, which can delay everything from taxes to travel.

Certain Medications Won’t Be Delivered Without a Locking Mailbox

Pharmacies and insurance providers are getting stricter about medication delivery — especially for controlled substances. CVS and Walgreens, for instance, often require signatures or secure mailboxes for certain prescriptions.

Some pharmacies won’t ship medications unless you can guarantee secure access, and a locking mailbox helps do that.

Medications that may require secure delivery include:

Controlled substances (like ADHD or pain medications)
Cold-chain medications (which need to stay cool and be retrieved quickly)
High-cost injectables (such as fertility or autoimmune drugs)

Without a locking mailbox, you may be forced to reroute these deliveries, risk delays, or spend your entire day at home just to sign for a package that could have been secured.

Business Documents and Payments Require a Locking Mailbox for Security

If you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or remote worker who receives physical checks, client contracts, or tax forms at home — a modern mailbox with a lock isn’t optional. It’s a must.

According to a 2023 FTC report, mailed checks were one of the top sources of mail-related fraud. With check washing on the rise, even one missing envelope can cost you thousands.

What’s at risk without a locking mailbox:

Mailed client payments or reimbursements
1099s and W-2s
Business licenses or permits
Legal or tax correspondence

You Might Not Be Eligible for USPS Parcel Locker Delivery Without a Locking Mailbox

In some neighborhoods — especially those with centralized mail systems — the USPS may not leave packages in a standard unlocked mailbox, even if it fits.

If the package requires secure drop-off and no one is home, it may be taken back to the post office, which is a major inconvenience.

Some HOAs and communities even require locking mailboxes for this reason, particularly in areas with shared or centralized delivery systems.

USPS recommends secure mailboxes for homeowners who frequently receive packages, prescription deliveries, or sensitive mail.

Insurance Claims and Bank Documents Could Be Delayed Without a Locking Mailbox

You probably don’t think twice about your mailbox when you file an insurance claim — but you should.

Many insurance providers still mail physical claim summaries, policy updates, or reimbursement checks. Most banks also send debit cards, loan approvals, and account documents via USPS.

If these items are stolen from an unlocked mailbox, you could:

Miss deadlines for follow-up documentation
Be forced to reorder critical account materials
Risk identity fraud

Packages With a High Declared Value May Require a Locking Mailbox for Secure Delivery

Retailers and shipping carriers treat high-value orders differently — and in some cases, that means requiring a secure drop-off location, such as a locking mailbox or parcel post box.

Whether it’s jewelry, tech, or small electronics, items over a certain price threshold may:

Require a locking mailbox or parcel post box
Be held at the post office or carrier hub for pickup
Not be delivered at all without a signature

A locking mailbox helps you avoid redelivery hassles, missed package slips, and long waits at the post office — all while keeping your deliveries ultra-secure.

A Modern Locking Mailbox That Works and Looks Good

A modern locking mailbox is a smart, long-term investment. Grab The Malone Mailbox here.

Let’s be honest — many locking mailboxes look industrial, bulky, or outdated.

That’s why Post & Porch designed a modern mailbox that balances form and function.

Crafted from 14-gauge powder-coated steel, The Malone post-mount mailbox offers:

A dual-layer locking mailbox system for maximum security
Eight curb appeal-friendly colors (black, white, brown, gray, red, blue, patina, and green)
Personalization with magnetic mailbox numbers
Weather resistance that lasts year-round

So, whether you're protecting your prescriptions, banking info, or just want peace of mind — a modern locking mailbox is a smart, long-term investment.

Grab The Malone Mailbox here →

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Locking Mailbox FAQs

Why do I need a locking mailbox for certain deliveries?

You need a locking mailbox because it protects important deliveries. Many items — such as prescription medications, government documents, and high-value packages — require a secure drop-off. A locking mailbox ensures these deliveries stay protected and helps prevent theft, delays, and missed shipments.

Can the USPS deliver medication to a mailbox that is unlocked?

In some cases, the USPS won’t deliver medication to an unlocked mailbox. Many pharmacies and insurance providers require a secure mailbox for prescription delivery, particularly for controlled substances or medications that require temperature sensitivity.

Are locking mailboxes required by HOAs or communities?

Yes, some HOAs and apartment complexes require residents to use locking mailboxes or centralized parcel lockers to reduce theft and manage secure deliveries. This is common in new developments or areas with high package volume.

What happens if I don’t have a locking mailbox and a package requires one?

If you don’t have a locking mailbox and a package requires one, USPS, FedEx, or UPS may hold your delivery at a nearby facility or require you to pick it up in person — which can delay time-sensitive items like medications or legal documents.

Will a locking mailbox fit regular mail and small packages?

Yes, a locking mailbox will fit regular mail and small packages! Most modern mailboxes are designed with ultra-deep compartments that can easily handle letters, envelopes, and smaller parcels. Find out if you need a large locking mailbox here →

Is a locking mailbox weatherproof?

A locking mailbox is weatherproof if it’s made with durable materials like powder-coated steel. The Malone by Post & Porch is designed to withstand rain, snow, and sun without rusting or fading.

Can I retrofit my existing mailbox with a lock?

You can retrofit your existing mailbox with a lock in some cases, but most standard models aren’t built to support secure mechanisms — making a purpose-built locking mailbox a better long-term choice. See why locking mailboxes are “in” here →

Do locking mailboxes work with USPS delivery regulations?

Yes, locking mailboxes do work with USPS delivery regulations as long as they’re USPS-approved and carriers can deposit mail into the secure compartment.

How does a locking mailbox help protect against identity theft?

A locking mailbox helps protect against identity theft by keeping sensitive documents — like tax forms, checks, and government notices — out of reach from thieves.

Are locking mailboxes worth the investment?

Absolutely. Locking mailboxes offer lasting peace of mind, secure delivery, and a serious curb appeal boost.

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