Post office box prices could climb

If you rent a post office box from the USPS, you may soon be paying more for it.

Officials announced late last week that they’re asking the Postal Regulatory Commission to approve a proposal that could include PO box rate hikes at nearly 50 post offices around the country.

Postal service officials say the boxes at those offices are not “market dominant,” but instead face competition from similar private services in the same neighborhoods.

The changes would immediately impact only a tiny fraction of box holders nationwide, but if the move is successful the USPS could request approval for broader adjustments as it tries to reduce a projected $7 billion loss in 2010. It’s unclear when the PRC will rule on the request.

How much do you currently pay for your PO box? Will you keep that service if the price goes up?

Published 2010-03-17