How can I make my roadside mailbox swivel to prevent damage without changing its appearance?
Asked by Jonathan Velasco 
7 months ago
Last Updated: May 29, 2024
I live in Georgia on a curved road, which means my mailbox is constantly getting hit by cars. I’m trying to figure out a budget-friendly way to make my mailbox swivel, so it can move instead of getting damaged. Most kits for this cost over $100. Do you think splitting the post horizontally could work for this setup? What steps would I need to take to make it weather-resistant (like greasing the bearings, using a rubber boot, etc)? My mailbox is similar to this style (not as nice though). Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Oh, and I’d like to keep the look of the mailbox the same to blend in with the neighbors. Thanks so much!
Have you thought about installing a long post instead? Mount it in a tube for added sturdiness.
I’ve witnessed people do that before, and the area where the horizontal piece connects to the vertical post is designed to be larger so that the post can fit inside. This allows the entire top to swivel if it’s hit
I think it might allow it to swivel, but my concern is that it could potentially become more dangerous or lead to a lawsuit… It would require a spring mechanism or a way to lock it down. If not properly secured, it might spin in the wind and become quite a spectacle. There’s a chance it could worsen the situation if someone were to hit it in a way that caused it to swing back and inflict more damage or injury. The example provided below seems intriguing: it doesn’t address the cost issue, but it would certainly enhance safety.
I came across this and numerous other designs meant to protect against snow plows. I definitely see the benefit of the spring. Perhaps if they accidentally damage their car after hitting my mailbox, they might have the decency to inform me.
If they’re only skimming the mailbox, I doubt this plan would be effective. But have you considered using swivels meant for boat seats? They are designed to withstand outdoor conditions, so they might be more durable.
I’m actually the opposite. I would construct it using a sturdy steel beam to make sure it causes damage to them. How are they managing to hit it though?
Steve, this isn’t where my mailbox is located – just providing an example. My actual mailbox is positioned at the peak of a curve, causing vehicles to hit it with various parts like the mirror, front end, or fender. I’m just tired of constantly repairing it
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I believe the issue with your solution lies in the leverage. I have a hunch that keeping it as it is will result in a longer-lasting outcome. Maybe you could purchase some scrap steel and construct a chassis for the box… then have a good chuckle when people try to hit it. Give it a shot in a small town.
If the issue is occurring at night, you might want to add some reflectors to the post. That way, it will be more visible in the dark when headlights shine on it.
Margo accomplished that all on her own
There is a potential liability if someone injures themselves by hitting your stationary mailbox. The idea of a swivel mailbox is truly innovative – it should be patented!
That’s the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard, but I work for the power company and legal won’t allow us to install bollards in front of critical equipment for the same reason
Mentions there is no responsibility. He could just install a steel pole in the ground and pour concrete into it.
Is spot on. You can easily look up the federal regulations on that.
How about installing a bright yellow bollard 4 feet into the ground and 4 feet above it, right by your mailbox? That should prevent any accidents with cars turning the corner too sharply.
Could you ask the town to consider installing a guard rail at the corner?
If they decide to remove the post, having a swivel won’t make a difference. Even if vehicles just barely hit the mailbox, I doubt the swivel could withstand the impact.
For what it’s worth, our mailbox was facing the same issue until the previous owner moved it down to the neighbor’s house. I actually don’t mind walking there to pick up our mail, and it’s a lot safer without cars hitting it constantly. The mail carrier only needs to make one stop for both houses.
You could try asking your local post office about moving the box across the street or maybe installing a brick one. That way, if someone hits it, they won’t just drive off. Remember to ensure that your box and post still meet the USPS guidelines.
Hey, could you do me a favor and move the mailbox back a foot? Or maybe place a big rock in front of the post? Make sure it lines up with the mailbox but not sticking out too much, so if they hit your mailbox, they’ll run over a huge rock