Top 3 Virtual Mailbox Services Reviewed: Earth Class Mail, Anytime Mailbox, and iPostal1

Hello, this is Attorney with Pot Weinstein. Today, I'll be reviewing three virtual mailbox services that I've personally used: Earth Class Mail, Anytime Mailbox, and iPostal1. We'll cover what they offer, how they differ, and the pros and cons of each.

Earth Class Mail

Earth Class Mail was the first virtual mailbox service I used, transitioning from a UPS store and a PO Box. Initially, it provided a physical address in San Francisco, which I found convenient. However, the company has since been acquired by LegalZoom, changing its operations significantly.

Key Features:

• Centralized Operations: All mail sent to your chosen address is forwarded to their facility in Beaverton, Oregon, where it is opened, scanned, and turned into a PDF.
• Mail Handling: Only receives mail from USPS, UPS, and DHL; FedEx is not accepted.
• Processing Time: The forwarding process to Oregon and back can be slow, sometimes taking up to two weeks to receive mail.

Pros:

• LegalZoom ownership may offer some reliability.
• Centralized scanning can provide better security controls.

Cons:

• Delays in receiving mail due to forwarding to Oregon.
• Limited acceptance of mail carriers (no FedEx).
• Some addresses only offer PO Boxes, which may not be practical for all users.

Anytime Mailbox

Currently, I use Anytime Mailbox for one of my business addresses. This service partners with local mail shops, allowing you to select from a variety of addresses and service levels.

Key Features:

• Decentralized Operations: Works with local mail shops, which handle the scanning and forwarding of mail.
• Variety of Locations: Many addresses available with different pricing and services.
• Flexibility: Local pickup options and various plans tailored to different needs.

Pros:

• Wide range of addresses and pricing options.
• Flexibility in service levels and the ability to choose local mail shops.
• Virtual aspect allows for remote mail management.

Cons:

• Each location has different pricing and service levels, which can be confusing.
• Security concerns as mail is handled by various local shops.

iPostal1

iPostal1 operates similarly to Anytime Mailbox, partnering with local mail shops to offer a variety of addresses and services.

Key Features:

• Variety of Plans: Offers different levels of service, including Virtual Office options.
• Numerous Locations: Multiple addresses available in each city.
• Standardized Services: Some locations offer more standardized services compared to Anytime Mailbox.

Pros:

• Multiple pricing tiers and services to choose from.
• Some locations offer more standardized services, making it easier to compare.

Cons:

• Additional fees for various services, such as forwarding and shredding.
• Similar security concerns as Anytime Mailbox, with local mail shops handling mail.

Recommendations

When selecting a virtual mailbox service, consider the following factors:

• Location: Choose an address that's convenient for you.
• Services Needed: Determine if you need just scanning or additional services like check deposit or forwarding.
• Security: Assess your comfort level with mail being handled by different entities.
• Cost: Compare the pricing and included services to ensure it fits your budget.

For most users, Anytime Mailbox or iPostal1 will offer the best balance of flexibility, cost, and convenience. However, if you prefer a centralized service with potentially higher security controls, Earth Class Mail might be a better fit.