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Planning to ship to a P.O. box? Make sure you’re aware of the restrictions that may apply. Here are our top tips to help you determine whether your package can be delivered to a P.O. box address.
Can I ship to a P.O. box?
Is it possible to ship to a P.O. box when using private couriers? A P.O. (Post Office) box is a secure mailbox located at a Canada Post office and is commonly used in areas where home delivery isn’t available. While convenient for receiving standard mail through federal postal services, P.O. boxes come with a big caveat: private couriers like UPS, FedEx, Purolator, DHL, Canpar, and GLS do not deliver to P.O. boxes.
If your customer provides a P.O. box as a delivery address, be sure to ask for a physical address where someone can sign for the package.
Can I Ship to a P.O. Box? What Small Business Owners Need to Know
For many small business owners—especially home-based entrepreneurs—receiving business-related mail at a separate address is often more practical. A common solution is using a P.O. box. But if you rely on private couriers for your deliveries, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Here’s what you need to know about shipping to a P.O. box, and how FlagShip can help make your shipping smoother.
What Is a P.O. Box and Who Can Deliver to It?
A P.O. (Post Office) box is a secure mailbox located at a Canada Post office, commonly used in areas where home delivery isn’t available. While convenient for receiving standard mail through federal postal services, private couriers like UPS, FedEx, Purolator, DHL, Canpar, and GLS do not deliver to P.O. boxes.
If a customer provides a P.O. box as a delivery address, be sure to request a physical street address where someone can receive and sign for the package.
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What’s the Difference Between a P.O. Box and a Mailbox?
While P.O. boxes are tied to federal postal services, a mailbox—especially one provided through private courier services—can offer more flexibility. For example, UPS mailbox services include parcel receiving, mail forwarding, and package notification—ideal for businesses expecting frequent courier shipments.
When Can You Ship to a P.O. Box?
- Canada Post (and other federal postal services) — Yes, you can ship to a P.O. box.
- Private couriers (UPS, FedEx, Purolator, etc.) — No, they do not deliver to P.O. boxes.
At FlagShip, we’ve partnered with Canada’s top couriers so you can ship anywhere in the world—just be sure to use a physical delivery address when shipping with a private courier!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ship to a P.O. box in Canada?
Yes, but only through Canada Post or other national postal services. Private couriers like UPS, FedEx, Purolator, DHL, Canpar, and GLS do not deliver to P.O. boxes.
Can I use a mailbox service or third-party mailbox instead?
Yes! Mailbox services and other private businesses can accept courier packages and provide a more flexible alternative to P.O. boxes.
What’s the best way to avoid shipping issues with P.O. boxes?
When using FlagShip, always confirm that the recipient has a physical address where someone can receive and sign for the package if needed.
How can FlagShip help with tricky delivery addresses?
FlagShip’s dashboard makes it easy to compare courier options and choose the right delivery method. Plus, our support team can help you avoid common delivery mistakes. Need help? Reach out to us at support@flagshipcompany.com or call 1-866-320-8383.
Shipping Made Simple with FlagShip
We’re here to help Canadian small businesses simplify their shipping. Our platform makes it easy to compare rates, choose from top couriers, and avoid common pitfalls like P.O. box delivery errors. Still have questions? Our friendly shipping experts are just a call or email away.