13 is the Magic Mailbox Number

13 oz - when it comes to USPS, that is the magic number when it comes to the mailbox.

Before 9/11, USPS would accept any parcel through a mailbox that would fit in a mailbox. In other words - you could have a very heavy envelope and, so long as it would fit in the mailbox - you were good to go.

However, in recent years - they have added a decal to the top of mailboxes explaining that only items weighing 13 oz or less can go in the mailbox.

Which means...if it's over 13 oz - you've got to go to a post office.

But bear in mind - you can still put international items, flat rate envelopes, even small boxes in a mailbox - just as long as they don't weigh more than 13 oz.

You'd be amazed at some of the things I've managed to fit in a mailbox - I sometimes wonder if I have a "Wanted!" poster out there in some post office someplace.

13! It's magic!