Choosing a cheap PO Box seems straightforward until customers start experiencing real-world delivery problems.
To help users searching for “cheap PO box,” “affordable PO box near me,” “PO box issues,” etc., here are actual recurring questions and genuine customer complaints seen across Reddit discussions, USPS forums, review platforms, and social media.
If you’re still comparing PO boxes vs. alternatives, trying Stowfly for your first month free is the easiest way to see whether flexible package receiving services solve the challenges you’re facing, without any long-term commitment.
Because PO boxes can only receive USPS mail.
This is the #1 complaint from frustrated customers, especially online shoppers.
Common user comments include:
If you frequently order from Amazon, Shein, Walmart, eBay, or any retailer using third-party couriers, this becomes a dealbreaker.
Many users report:
These issues often occur due to:
Tip: Always keep tracking screenshots if something goes missing.
Small PO boxes fill up within a day or two if you receive:
When this happens, USPS may:
Many customers complain that their “cheap small PO box” becomes unusable for real package volume.
Because boxes can only hold mail, not most packages.
You’ll often need to stand in line when:
Users report waiting 15-40 minutes, sometimes longer during lunch hours or holidays.
Most PO boxes are safe, but users occasionally report issues such as:
These concerns often surprise customers who assume PO boxes guarantee perfect security.
Not always.
Many customers only find out after renting that:
People who work full-time often struggle to access their boxes without rushing.
Real customer frustrations:
Customers frequently mention that the “cheap PO box” they expected ends up being much more expensive.
Hidden USPS Fees & Unexpected Costs to Be Aware of :
While PO boxes look affordable upfront, customers frequently report unexpected charges such as:
These hidden costs often make PO boxes more expensive than originally expected.
There are limitations:
Users often report frustration when they realize a PO box doesn’t qualify as a real business mailing address.
Based on user feedback, the top reasons include:
✔ Accepts ALL carriers
No more “UPS undeliverable” or “Amazon won’t ship to PO box.”
✔ Flexible pickup hours
Location partners include convenience stores, salons, cafés, etc., often open early mornings, late evenings, and weekends.
✔ Affordable & predictable pricing
Subscriptions typically cost the same, or less than many PO boxes.
✔ No overflow risk
Packages up to 2 ft x 2 ft x 2 ft and 50 lbs can be held securely.
✔ Works for online shoppers
People ordering from Amazon, Walmart, Temu, eBay, and Shein find it far more convenient.
Only halfway.
It prevents USPS packages from being left at your door, but it does not protect:
Users searching for “cheap PO box to prevent package theft” often discover it doesn’t solve the full problem.
For most shoppers, travelers, renters, and small businesses:
A package receiving service like Stowfly is more flexible than a PO box or mailbox for rent because:
And many customers appreciate the peace of mind knowing every package is actually delivered, not returned, lost, or delayed. So no more dealing with missed deliveries and lost packages.
PO boxes can be a great solution, if:
But for online shoppers, apartment residents, remote workers, and frequent travelers, the limitations are significant.
This is why so many customers end up switching to Stowfly, which delivers flexibility and reliability without the traditional PO box frustrations.