Why Mail Security Matters in Metro Detroit

If you’ve ever had a package marked “delivered” that never showed up—or found a check missing from your mailbox—you already know how frustrating (and risky) that can be.

Unfortunately, it’s not just you.

🔒 Mail Theft in Metro Detroit Is on the Rise

Metro Detroit locking mailbox solutions are in high demand—and for good reason. Homeowners across Livonia, Troy, Canton, Sterling Heights, Novi, Ann Arbor, and beyond are searching for terms like “best locking mailbox near me,” “how to prevent mail theft in Michigan,” and “USPS-approved secure mailbox installers in Metro Detroit.” At Big Bore Signs, we’ve helped hundreds of residents protect their deliveries with tamper-proof, post-mounted, and wall-mounted mailboxes designed to meet USPS standards and beat Michigan weather. If you’re Googling it—we’re installing it.

Across Metro Detroit, from Canton and Livonia to Ann Arbor and Sterling Heights, more homeowners are dealing with stolen mail, missing packages, and in some cases, identity fraud that started with something as small as an envelope left in an unlocked box.

It’s the kind of problem most people don’t think about until it happens to them—and by then, it’s too late.

That’s why more homeowners are starting to ask:
Do I need a locking mailbox?

At Big Bore Signs, we hear that question all the time. And in most cases, the answer is yes—especially if your current mailbox sits near the road, doesn’t lock, or is starting to fall apart. A secure, locking mailbox is one of the simplest ways to protect your deliveries, your information, and your peace of mind.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• The real risks of unsecured mail (and how they’re showing up across Michigan)
• What types of locking mailboxes are out there—and how to choose the right one
• What installation looks like (DIY vs. professional)
• Answers to the most common questions we get from local homeowners

If you’ve been thinking about making a change, this is everything you need to know—straight from the team that installs secure, USPS-approved mailboxes across Southeast Michigan.

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Why You Need a Locking Mailbox

You probably never gave your mailbox much thought—until something went missing. Whether it was a birthday card that never showed up, a package mysteriously marked “delivered” but nowhere to be found, or even worse, signs of identity theft weeks after a check was swiped—mail theft is real, and it’s on the rise in Michigan.

📈 The Rise of Mail Theft in Michigan

Over the past few years, reports of stolen mail and package theft have skyrocketed across Southeast Michigan. In cities like Livonia, Canton, Troy, and Ann Arbor, local police departments have issued repeated warnings about “porch pirates” and criminals targeting unlocked roadside mailboxes.

From stolen tax documents to bank-issued checks being “washed” and cashed, the trend isn’t just frustrating—it’s financially and emotionally draining. Identity theft can take months (or longer) to resolve, and even something as simple as a stolen debit card can leave your account exposed.

It’s no surprise that more Michigan homeowners are starting to take mailbox security seriously. We’re seeing more folks Googling things like how to prevent mail theft, where to find a secure mailbox near them, or what the best locking mailbox is for their neighborhood.

And with good reason: unsecured mailboxes are one of the easiest targets for thieves looking to grab sensitive information or valuable deliveries.

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🚫 How an Unsecured Mailbox Puts You at Risk

If you’re still using a traditional, non-locking mailbox—the kind that flips open easily and sits just a few feet from the street—you might be more vulnerable than you think.

Here’s what thieves look for:

• Easy roadside access (especially at night or in low-traffic neighborhoods)
• Mailbox flags raised (which often means outgoing checks or bills)
• Lack of surveillance (most mail theft happens in less than 10 seconds)

Once your mail is stolen, it’s more than just the inconvenience of a lost envelope:

• Checks can be altered or “washed”
• Your identity can be used to open credit accounts
• Thieves can intercept sensitive documents like W-2s or IRS letters
• Insurance cards, prescriptions, and account statements can be exploited

In short, unsecured mailboxes are an open invitation for opportunistic crime—and it’s usually silent. Many homeowners don’t realize anything’s missing until it’s too late.

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📬 USPS Regulations for Locking Mailboxes in Metro Detroit

The good news? Locking mailboxes are fully allowed by the United States Postal Service—as long as they meet a few basic guidelines.

USPS-approved locking mailboxes must:

• Include a mail slot or hopper large enough for daily delivery
• Be positioned between 41″ and 45″ from the ground
• Be placed 6″ to 8″ back from the curb
• Not require a key for the postal worker to deposit mail

If the mailbox design blocks access or is incorrectly placed, USPS can refuse to deliver—which is why correct installation matters.

That’s where Big Bore Signs comes in. We install USPS-compliant, tamper-resistant mailboxes that not only meet local and federal requirements but also stand up to real-world use (and Michigan winters).

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🛡️ A Simple Fix to a Growing Problem

So—do you need a locking mailbox? If you live in Southeast Michigan and your mail currently sits unsecured at the street or your porch, the answer is yes.

With check fraud, identity theft, and package theft growing in places like Sterling Heights, Rochester Hills, Novi, and Ypsilanti, a locking mailbox isn’t overkill—it’s smart prevention.

Big Bore Signs makes it easy with:

• Secure, attractive mailbox options
• HOA-compliant installations
• Local expertise in Metro Detroit neighborhoods
• Fast turnaround and no-nonsense quotes

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Types of Locking Mailboxes & Their Benefits

Not all locking mailboxes are created equal—and not every home has the same needs. Whether you live in a condo in Ann Arbor, a quiet subdivision in Novi, or out in the country near Saline, the right secure mailbox depends on your mail volume, property type, and how packages get delivered to your door.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of locking mailboxes—and how to know which one’s right for you.

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📪 Wall-Mounted Locking Mailboxes

Best for: Urban homes, apartments, duplexes, condos

If your mail gets delivered to a front porch or mounted location—common in places like Dearborn, Ypsilanti, or downtown Detroit—a wall-mounted locking mailbox might be the most convenient option.

✅ Benefits:

• Installs easily on brick, siding, or wood
• Great for small-to-medium mail volume
• Keeps delivery areas clutter-free
• Most models feature front access with secure key entry

Many models come with a narrow mail slot that prevents fishing, and a sleek design that won’t interfere with your home’s curb appeal. This is a popular pick for homeowners looking for a compact, secure mailbox that doesn’t require post installation.

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📫 Post-Mounted Locking Mailboxes

Best for: Suburban homes, rural roads, driveways

If you have a traditional curbside mailbox—especially common in neighborhoods across Rochester Hills, Canton, Shelby Township, and Northville—a post-mounted locking mailbox is likely your best bet.

✅ Benefits:

• Replaces your existing roadside mailbox
• Large capacity for mail and small parcels
• Heavy-duty construction and tamper resistance
• Can be mounted on an existing or new post (Big Bore offers both options)

Post-mounted models are typically built from powder-coated steel or aluminum, with locking access behind the front door or underneath a protective flap. Some include features like anti-pry latches, incoming mail slots, and parcel doors.

It’s a solid upgrade that delivers both convenience and protection—without complicating USPS delivery.

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📦 Parcel Drop & Large Capacity Locking Mailboxes

Best for: Frequent package deliveries, home businesses, busy households

If your porch is basically a drop zone for Amazon boxes, you’ll want a mailbox that can handle more than just letters. That’s where large-capacity locking mailboxes with parcel doors come in.

Common in areas like Livonia, West Bloomfield, and Sterling Heights—where package theft is rising—these mailboxes are built to secure everything from padded envelopes to small boxes, all without giving thieves an easy target.

✅ Benefits:

• Oversized compartments for parcels and bulk mail
• Secure drop doors prevent access after delivery
• Weather-resistant and rustproof
• Some models include outgoing mail compartments too

A parcel mailbox is especially useful if you travel frequently, work long hours, or run a small business from home. It reduces the need to rush home for deliveries—or worry about what’s missing when you do.

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🧠 Not Sure Which One to Choose?

Big Bore Signs has installed hundreds of locking mailboxes across Metro Detroit, so we know what works in your neighborhood. Whether you need help deciding between wall-mounted vs. post-mounted, or you’re looking for a high-capacity solution with HOA compliance, we’ll walk you through your options and handle the install from start to finish.

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Best Locking Mailboxes for Security – Our Top Picks

Choosing a locking mailbox isn’t just about security—it’s also about finding the right balance of durability, capacity, style, and budget. Whether you need something heavy-duty, budget-friendly, or big enough to handle Amazon packages, here are some of the most trusted options used by homeowners across Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan.

These are the mailboxes we recommend most often—and the ones we install regularly for our customers in places like Farmington Hills, Northville, Troy, and Ann Arbor.

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💸 Best Budget-Friendly Locking Mailbox

🏷️ Model: Mail Boss Metro

If you want real protection without breaking the bank, the Mail Boss Metro is one of the most popular entry-level locking mailboxes on the market—and for good reason. It’s compact, durable, and priced under $100 in most cases.

✅ Features:

• Heavy-gauge galvanized steel construction
• Anti-pry latch locking system
• Powder-coated finish in multiple colors
• Simple wall or post mounting options

It’s perfect for smaller homes, condos, or anyone upgrading from a traditional box but not looking to go full-fortress mode. It’s not the biggest, but it covers the basics really well—especially if your main concern is letter theft or credit card fraud.

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🛡️ Best Heavy-Duty Locking Mailbox

🏷️ Model: Mail Boss Package Master

If you’re looking for serious protection and don’t want to worry about rust, prying, or weather damage, the Package Master is one of the toughest mailboxes available. This is our go-to for customers in high-theft areas like Canton, Sterling Heights, and Rochester Hills.

✅ Features:

• 12- and 14-gauge powder-coated steel
• Patented anti-pry latch and commercial-grade lock
• USPS-approved for residential delivery
• Accepts small packages and padded envelopes

It’s more expensive than entry-level models, but the added weight and reinforced design offer real peace of mind—especially for homeowners who’ve already dealt with theft or tampering.

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📦 Best Locking Mailbox in Metro Detroit for Package Deliveries

🏷️ Model: Gibraltar Parcel Protector Plus

Getting a ton of deliveries? If your front porch is a revolving door of Amazon, UPS, or USPS packages, this mailbox was built for you. The Parcel Protector Plus is a large-capacity, locking mailbox with a secure hopper-style drop door for incoming packages.

✅ Features:

• Large parcel compartment for box deliveries
• Heavy-duty aluminum and steel design
• Rear locking access door
• Weatherproof and rust-resistant

This is a great choice for homeowners in Northville, Novi, or Livonia, where package delivery is part of everyday life—and so is the risk of porch piracy. It’s also popular with remote workers, small business owners, and frequent travelers.

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🧰 Want Help Choosing the Right One?

At Big Bore Signs, we don’t just drop off a box and leave—we help you pick the right mailbox for your setup, install it properly, and make sure it’s 100% USPS-compliant.

✅ Not sure which model fits your needs or your budget?
✅ Need something HOA-approved or custom-installed on brick or concrete?

We’ve installed hundreds of locking mailboxes across Metro Detroit, and we’ll help you make the right call.

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How to Install a Locking Mailbox in Metro Detroit

So, you’ve picked out the perfect locking mailbox—now comes the next big question: How do you install it correctly without messing up delivery?

Whether it’s a post-mounted box near the road or a wall-mounted model by your front door, proper installation is the key to security, curb appeal, and uninterrupted mail service. Let’s break it down.

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📏 USPS Guidelines for Locked Mailboxes

Before you grab a shovel or power drill, it’s important to know that the United States Postal Service has strict rules about where and how your mailbox should be installed. If your box doesn’t meet their standards, your carrier can legally refuse delivery—even if you’re home.

Here are the basics for curbside locking mailboxes:

• Mail slot must be at least 1.75” high by 10” wide
• Bottom of the mailbox should sit 41” to 45” from the ground
• Mailbox should be 6” to 8” back from the curb or road edge
• Mail carriers must be able to deposit mail without a key

For wall-mounted locking mailboxes, USPS requires:

• The slot or opening to be clearly labeled and easy to access
• Location must be in line with the home’s front entrance
• Mail carrier should not need to open a gate or step out of view

If your mailbox is too high, too low, or incorrectly placed, your delivery could be flagged or suspended until it’s corrected.

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🧰 Step-by-Step Installation Process

Whether you’re tackling this on your own or calling in a pro, here’s what the typical installation looks like:

Wall-Mounted Locking Mailbox

1. Choose a weather-protected location near the front door.
2. Use a level to ensure alignment.
3. Pre-drill holes into brick, siding, or wood as needed.
4. Use included hardware or upgraded anchors for added strength.
5. Secure mailbox with tamper-resistant screws or bolts.
6. Test for proper door clearance and mail slot function.

Post-Mounted Locking Mailbox

1. Remove existing post (if needed) and dig new post hole ~20” deep.
2. Set new post in concrete and allow 24 hours to cure.
3. Mount locking mailbox to post using reinforced brackets.
4. Check height and distance from curb for USPS compliance.
5. Secure doors and locking mechanism.
6. Test incoming mail slot and outgoing compartment (if applicable).

These steps may sound simple—but things like misaligned posts, loose fasteners, or poorly cured concrete are some of the top issues we see with DIY installs. Not to mention USPS height and distance rules are often overlooked.

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🛠️ DIY vs. Professional Installation by Big Bore Signs

Let’s be honest—installing a locking mailbox can quickly go sideways if you’re not used to working with tools or navigating HOA rules. That’s why so many homeowners in Troy, Plymouth, Canton, and Farmington Hills call Big Bore Signs to handle the job from start to finish.

Here’s what you get when you call us:

• Expert advice on which mailbox fits your home & needs
• Removal of old mailbox and damaged posts (if needed)
• Proper concrete setting and leveling
• Guaranteed USPS-compliant installation
• Clean, professional finish that adds curb appeal

We’ve handled installations on brick homes, concrete driveways, decorative posts, and even custom HOA designs. If it involves securing your mail—we’ve done it.

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💬 Final Thought

If you’re the hands-on type, DIY might seem tempting. But if you want it done fast, done right, and fully compliant, a professional install can save time, frustration, and future headaches.

Want to know what installation would look like at your address? Big Bore Signs offers free quotes and honest advice—no pressure, just solutions.

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Cost of Locking Mailbox Installation in Metro Detroit

We get this question all the time:
“How much does it cost to install a locking mailbox?”

The short answer? It depends on a few things—like the type of mailbox, where it’s going, and whether we’re removing an old setup. But don’t worry, we’ll break it down so you know what to expect before picking up the phone.

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💵 Factors That Affect Pricing

Here’s what typically goes into the cost of a locking mailbox installation in Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan:

🔨 1. Mailbox Type & Size

• Wall-mounted models are usually more affordable to install.
• Post-mounted mailboxes (especially large-capacity or parcel boxes) require more materials and labor.
• Custom or decorative mailboxes with extra features (like outgoing mail doors or parcel drop compartments) may require extra time or hardware.

🪵 2. Material & Durability

• Basic steel or aluminum models are budget-friendly.
• Powder-coated, rust-resistant boxes cost more—but last longer.
• Heavy-duty commercial-grade models like the Mail Boss Package Master fall into the premium category.

🏡 3. Site Conditions

• Replacing an old post or setting a new one in concrete increases labor.
• Brick or masonry wall installs (common in Livonia, Rochester Hills, and Novi) require specialty tools and anchors.
• Sloped driveways or tight spots may need leveling or modifications.

📋 4. HOA Requirements

• If you live in a subdivision with strict mailbox standards, it might involve a specific color, material, or mounting style.
• Big Bore Signs has experience working with HOA boards in Northville, Shelby Twp., and West Bloomfield, and can ensure your new mailbox is fully approved.

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📊 Price Ranges for Different Models

Let’s look at ballpark figures so you have a rough idea:

Mailbox Type	Mailbox Cost	Install Cost	Total Installed Price
Wall-Mounted (Basic)	$60–$120	$75–$150	$135–$270
Post-Mounted (Standard)	$100–$200	$150–$250	$250–$450
Large Parcel Locking Mailbox	$200–$400	$200–$300	$400–$700
Heavy-Duty, Tamper-Proof Models	$250–$500+	$200–$350	$500–$850+

These are average costs for most installations in Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne Counties. If you already have a post in good shape or a flat mounting surface, your install might come in on the lower end.

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🧾 Get a Free Quote from Big Bore Signs

We believe in straightforward pricing—no hidden fees, no surprises.

When you call Big Bore Signs, here’s what you can expect:

• A quick phone consultation or on-site visit
• Honest feedback on what’s needed (and what’s not)
• Clear pricing with install, materials, and any post work included
• Zero upsell pressure—just real answers from someone who knows this stuff

Whether you’re in Troy, Ann Arbor, Canton, or Dearborn, we’ll help you secure your mail with a solution that fits your home and your budget.

📞 Call (248) 496-4990 to get your custom quote today—or send a message online and we’ll get right back to you.

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FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About Locking Mailboxes in Metro Detroit

You’ve got questions—we hear them every day from homeowners all over Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan. Here are the most common ones we get when someone’s thinking about upgrading to a locking mailbox.

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❓ Are locking mailboxes USPS-approved?

Yes—but not all of them.

The United States Postal Service does allow locking mailboxes, but they must meet specific guidelines:

• Mail carriers must be able to deposit mail without needing a key
• The incoming mail slot or door must be large enough for daily delivery
• The box must be installed at the proper height and setback from the curb

That’s why it’s important to buy a USPS-approved model and have it installed correctly. Big Bore Signs only installs boxes that meet these standards, so your delivery doesn’t get interrupted.

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❓ Can mail carriers access a locked mailbox?

They don’t need to.

Locking mailboxes are designed with a front-facing mail slot or hopper that lets the carrier drop mail in without using a key. The locked compartment below is only accessible to you.

Some higher-end models also include a rear access door—perfect for wall-mounted boxes on porches or driveway mailboxes with safer rear-entry retrieval.

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❓ What’s the best locking mailbox for rural areas or long driveways?

If you live in a rural part of Washtenaw or northern Oakland County and your mailbox sits far from your home, you’ll want a large-capacity, weatherproof mailbox with a locking door. Look for models with:

• Reinforced steel construction
• Room for 3–5 days’ worth of mail
• Parcel drop doors for small packages
• Rust-resistant finish

Models like the Mail Boss Package Master or Gibraltar Parcel Protector are great choices for rural homes.

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❓ Do I need HOA approval for a locking mailbox in Metro Detroit?

In many cases, yes.

If you live in a subdivision with a homeowner’s association, they may require that your mailbox:

• Matches existing styles or colors
• Uses a specific post design
• Follows architectural guidelines

Big Bore Signs has worked with HOAs in Northville, Shelby Township, Canton, and West Bloomfield, and we’re happy to help make sure your mailbox is compliant—before installation.

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❓ Can I install a locking mailbox myself?

You can—but it depends on your tools, experience, and whether you want to deal with concrete, leveling, USPS regulations, and post removal.

Some homeowners handle wall-mounted installs themselves. But for curbside or parcel boxes that require:

• Concrete post setting
• Brick mounting
• Custom positioning for mail slot access
  …it’s often faster (and smarter) to call in a pro.

Big Bore Signs handles the entire process—from helping you pick the right box to clean, code-compliant installation.

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Metro Detroit Service Areas – Secure Mailbox Installation Near You

Big Bore Signs provides professional locking mailbox installation across Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan. Whether you live in a busy suburb, a quiet cul-de-sac, or a more rural stretch, we’ve helped homeowners just like you secure their mail and prevent theft.

We’re locally based and proud to serve neighborhoods throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties.

Here are some of the most common areas we service:

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🏘️ Oakland County

• Troy
• Farmington Hills
• Novi
• West Bloomfield
• Rochester Hills
• Southfield
• Ferndale
• Royal Oak
• Bloomfield Hills
• Commerce Township

Whether you’re replacing an old box that’s seen better days or upgrading to a tamper-proof model with parcel protection, we’ll make sure it’s installed right and USPS-compliant.

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🏠 Wayne County

• Livonia
• Canton
• Northville
• Plymouth
• Dearborn
• Westland
• Detroit (select neighborhoods)
• Redford
• Garden City

Many of our Wayne County customers deal with package theft, identity theft, or vandalized roadside boxes—especially in high-traffic areas. Locking mailboxes are a simple but powerful way to protect your deliveries.

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🌳 Washtenaw County

• Ann Arbor
• Ypsilanti
• Saline
• Dexter

Wall-mounted locking mailboxes are especially popular in downtown Ann Arbor and historic districts. We offer models that blend well with older homes while meeting modern security standards—and we handle brick or masonry installs with care.

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🛠️ Macomb County

• Sterling Heights
• Shelby Township
• Clinton Township
• Macomb
• Warren
• Utica

From traditional post-mounted boxes to high-capacity locking mailboxes that handle multiple packages a day, we install across all of Macomb County—and we’re familiar with both city and HOA mailbox guidelines.

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📍 Not Sure If We Cover Your Area?

If you’re anywhere in Southeast Michigan, there’s a good chance we do. Just give us a call or send a message with your zip code—we’re happy to let you know how soon we can get out to you.

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Get a Secure Mailbox Installed Today – Protect Your Deliveries!

If mail theft has crossed your mind lately—you’re not alone. More and more homeowners across Metro Detroit are upgrading to locking mailboxes as a simple, smart way to protect their identity, their finances, and their peace of mind.

Whether you’ve had packages disappear, checks go missing, or you just want to stay ahead of the problem, a locking mailbox is a practical upgrade that pays off fast.

And with Big Bore Signs, getting one installed is easier than you think.

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Why Homeowners Across Southeast Michigan Choose Us:

✔️ USPS-compliant installations – No delivery interruptions
✔️ Tamper-resistant mailbox options for every budget
✔️ Fast turnaround – often installed in a single visit
✔️ Local experience in Troy, Livonia, Ann Arbor, Novi, Canton & more
✔️ No hidden fees, no upsells – just honest service

We’ve installed secure, locking mailboxes on brick homes, in HOA neighborhoods, on rural roads, and downtown porches. No matter your layout, we’ll make sure your new mailbox is done right and built to last.

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📞 Ready for a Quote?

Give us a quick call at (248) 496-4990 or send us a message with your address. We’ll help you pick the right mailbox, schedule the install, and make sure everything is good to go—no stress, no pressure.

Your mail deserves better than a rusted box on a wobbly post.
Let’s fix that—and keep your deliveries safe.