Fabulous Financials & Fitness

Yesterday on “Ask the Readers,” I scoffed at the 6 month rental price for a PO Box. Then I asked if you all thought I was being frugal or cheap. I really appreciate all of your feedback, it helped me get off my arse and complete the first item on my 2008 “to do” list. The comment from DogAteMyFinances really gave me the light bulb moment – I can write it off as a business expense. Well duh!! Can you tell I’m a newbie? :-) Don’t worry, if you are too, I’ll share everything I learn.

Based on your comments, I also checked out Mail Boxes Etc. First of all, they don’t publish their rates/sizes online. You have to call a representative or visit an actual location. Ugh! Strike one, can you say INCONVENIENT? So I did a google map search and found one 4 miles away. Called ‘em up and this is what I learned:

There was no significant difference in the box size.

…and the MBE prices were even HIGHER!!

*USPS real price is for a 6 month rental (i.e. $42 small, $64 med, $118 large).

**MBE charges per month with a 3 month minimum PLUS a $25 one time processing fee.

I guess you’re paying a premium for having an actual street address and the convenience of accepting FedEx/UPS packages. However, the significant difference in price wasn’t worth the additional benefits to me.

I didn’t want to spend a lot of time comparing USPS to other options because that would have given me a reason to drag my feet and never do it. Seriously. Hi, my name is Single Ma and I’m a procrastinator. So…

My decision: I decided to start off with the smallest box (3 x 5.5) at USPS and see how it goes. For a 6 month rental and 2 keys, I paid $44 ($1/key).

The benefits: IMO, the primary benefits are: 1) the PO is literally walking distance from my house, 2) I can access the box 24/7, and 3) since I’m not familiar with the other options, I *know* my mail is secure with a USPS PO Box.

The only downside: If a large pkg is delivered, hopefully I’ll have a similar experience as you guys and they will hold it for me. But if I later decide to go with a bigger box or a different provider, I can always switch when my 6 months are up.

This is the first thing I can mark off my “to do” list. Yay!

Thanks everyone! Especially Single Mom Seeking for the kick in the pants. LOL

~*~*~*~*~*~
Work to achieve, not to acquire.
And as always, BE FABULOUS!

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