How to set up a PO Box?

Renting a post office box (P.O. Box) is a convenient solution for those who travel frequently, run a business from home, live in a dormitory, or are temporarily changing their place of residence. Using a P.O. Box guarantees the confidentiality of your address, secure storage of your mail, and round-the-clock access to it. In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process step by step: from choosing the size of the box to receiving the keys and using it.

Why a P.O. Box can be useful

Before getting into the practical aspects of setting up a P.O. Box, it is important to understand its advantages.

First, it's reliable—letters and packages go straight to your box, with no risk of getting lost in the general mail flow. Second, it's anonymous—you don't have to reveal your home address for public registrations or online stores.

Third, accessibility—most Canada Post locations are open at convenient times for customers, including early mornings and evenings, and sometimes on weekends.

Choosing a location and box size

Location

Choose the location closest to your home, office, or transportation hub. Pay attention to the hours of operation: some locations are open only on weekdays, while others are open on weekends.

Sizes and rates

Canada Post offers several standard sizes:

  • Small box: suitable for letters, small envelopes, and magnetic cards.
  • Medium box: allows you to receive magazines, larger envelopes, and compact packages.
  • Large box: holds small parcels and boxes.

Rates depend on the size and rental period (three months, six months, or one year). Typically, quarterly fees start at around CAD 30 for a small box and CAD 60 for a large box. Discounts are available for six-month and one-year rentals.

How to apply: online and in person

Online registration

  1. Go to the Canada Post website and log in or create a personal account.
  2. Go to the “P.O. Boxes” section and click “Rent Now.”
  3. Select your province and city — Calgary, AB — and then select a location from the list.
  4. Select the size of the box and the rental period. The system will automatically calculate the cost.
  5. Enter your personal information: full name, phone number, email address, and an additional contact in case you lose your key.
  6. Pay online with a credit card or other available methods (Interac, PayPal).
  7. Wait for a confirmation email with your box details and instructions on how to get your keys or access code.

Signing up at a branch

  1. Go to your chosen Canada Post branch with a form of ID. If you are renting a box for an organization, you will need a document confirming your authority.
  2. Inform them that you wish to rent a P.O. Box.
  3. Fill out the application form on paper.
  4. Pay for the service in cash, by card, or by other means.
  5. Receive your keys or electronic code. Check that the keys work and confirm the branch's opening hours.

Receiving and using your box

After registration, your box will be activated within a few hours or a day. Access hours may vary: from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., sometimes until 10:00 p.m., or around the clock.

  • Find your box by number and check that it is empty and marked with your name.
  • Do not give the keys to anyone else. A fee (CAD 15–20) will be charged for lost keys.
  • Check your box every two days to avoid it becoming full.
  • If you have electronic access, activate SMS notifications.

Renewing and terminating your rental

  • Extend – pay online or at the branch before the end of the term.
  • Change size – select a different format if necessary and pay the difference.
  • Terminate – collect your contents and return the keys. Payment for unused time is not usually refundable.

Helpful tips

  • If you expect a large amount of mail during the holidays, get a larger box.
  • If you lose your key, notify the consultant immediately.
  • Business customers are offered special rates and free labels.
  • Check if the branch offers additional services, such as scanning or forwarding.

Registering for a post office box with Canada Post is a simple process that takes just a few minutes but provides a reliable and secure way to receive your mail. Follow the instructions and your P.O. Box will become a reliable tool for your personal and business needs.