Junk Mail Magic

Reduce named advertising at a PO Box

Copy the PO Box line exactly as the label prints it, then ask the sender to stop marketing mail to that name and box. The request concerns the advertiser's mailing list only. Your box rental and delivery stay as they are, and a sender's opt-out cannot change them.

By Junk Mail Magic. Updated .

Match the label to the request

  1. Read the address block. Note whether it says PO Box, P.O. Box or Box, and whether a ZIP+4 follows. Quoting it the same way gives the sender the version it actually used.
  2. Copy the name line as well. A middle initial, nickname or business name may belong to a different record than your usual name.
  3. Find the sender's contact route on its official website, typed in yourself rather than reached through the mailer.
  4. Ask for marketing removal only. If the form has no PO Box field, explain the box address in a comment field instead of entering a street address you do not use.
  5. If the same sender also mails you at a street address, mention both. A request about one address may not cover the other.

Shared boxes

If the box receives mail for a family member, roommate or business, send requests only for names you receive mail under or for people who have agreed to let you. Do not open pieces addressed to someone else. Questions about the box service itself go to USPS, not to advertisers.

Sample request using the box format

Example for your own use. Replace the bracketed details and review what you share.

Please stop marketing mail for [name as printed] at [PO Box line as printed], [city, state, ZIP or ZIP+4 as printed]. This request covers promotions only. Please do not change any account or service records. If your records show another spelling of this name or box, please tell me which versions you found so I can confirm them.

Track the versions you quoted

Keep a short note for each sender with the date and the exact name and box line you gave. If a promotion arrives later with a different spelling or box format, send that sender a follow-up quoting the new version and ask whether it found more than one record.

Official sources

Handle an address the opt-out form cannot findCheck recipient details against the physical labelReview advertisers before closing a PO BoxRenting and relocationAll practical mail guides

Have an unwanted advertisement ready?

Photograph one piece you are authorized to handle, with the sender and full mailing label visible. Review the details before submitting. The first request is free; the sender controls the response.

Try one request free