Setting up a mail forwarding service

A mail forwarding service provides a physical address you can use for deliveries that is not your home. Setting one up is straightforward once you understand what the different service types offer and which works best for package receiving specifically.

Types of services

Virtual mailbox services (Traveling Mailbox, PostScan Mail, Earth Class Mail) provide a street address at a mail center. Staff scan and photograph incoming mail so you can view it digitally. Physical packages can be forwarded on request. These services are designed for people who want mail management, not just a delivery address.

Simple package forwarding services provide an address and forward whatever arrives without digital notification. These are cheaper and more anonymous — some require only an email address to register. They are appropriate for receiving packages specifically rather than managing correspondence.

Commercial mail receiving agencies (CMRAs) are physical mailbox businesses regulated by USPS. They require Form 1583 (verified with government ID) for USPS mail acceptance. This involves identity verification, which reduces anonymity but provides a legitimate USPS-recognizable address.

Which type for package receiving

For the specific use case of receiving international packages without using a home address, a simple package forwarding service that does not require identity verification is the most relevant option. Registration typically requires only an email address. The service provides a physical commercial address. Packages are forwarded via USPS or UPS to your actual address after notification.

Setup steps

Register with an email address. Note the provided forwarding address including the unique suite number assigned to your account. Use this address as the delivery address when placing your order. After the forwarding service receives your package, they will notify you and forward it. Typical forwarding fee is $5-15 per small package plus shipping cost.

The setup time for a mail forwarding service is typically 24 to 48 hours for address activation after account creation and identity verification. Planning the registration at least a week before your first expected delivery ensures the address is active and you have confirmed the service is functioning correctly before you need it. Testing with a low-value piece of mail before using the address for a sensitive delivery is a practical way to verify the full chain works.