What is the Difference Between PO Box and Locked Bag?

The main difference between a PO Box and a Locked Bag (also known as a Private Mail Bag) lies in the way mail is collected and delivered. Here are the key differences:

1. Collection: With a PO Box, the mail is collected by the holder at the post office. In contrast, a Locked Bag can be dispatched directly to the holder by a mail contractor, allowing for convenience in mail collection. However, some Locked Bag services, like those in Singapore, still require the holder to collect the mail at the post office.
2. Size and Dimensions: There are different sizes of Locked Bags, such as small (760x460mm) and large (900x740mm). PO Boxes come in various sizes, including medium (135x130mm), large (275x130mm), and jumbo (A4).
3. Security: Locked Bags require a padlock provided by the owner, and one duplicate key must be provided to the post office. PO Boxes, on the other hand, are typically secured within the post office premises.
4. Usage: PO Boxes are more popular and widely available in most countries. Locked Bags are more common in countries like Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and Fiji, where they are mainly used by government departments or large private companies that receive large volumes of mail.
5. Addressing: Both PO Box and Locked Bag addresses omit the name of the building and other address details, making them unique for mail delivery purposes.

In some cases, a combined facility of a PO Box and a Locked Bag can be provided. However, the specific features and services may vary depending on the country and the postal service provider.

Comparative Table: PO Box vs Locked Bag

Here is a table comparing the differences between a PO Box and a Locked Bag:

In summary, a PO Box is a locked mailbox located at a post office, with the holder needing to collect mail in person. A Locked Bag, on the other hand, is a special feature of postal services in some countries, where the mail is dispatched directly to the holder by a mail contractor. Locked Bags are larger than PO Boxes and may be used by government departments or large private companies.