Preview: figures awaiting verification
Some numbers on this page haven't been checked against their sources yet.
Mailbox and Shipping Store Business
A neighborhood storefront that rents private mailboxes and offers packing and shipping, printing, and notary services.
Figures last verified October 31, 2026
$66,387 – $275,040*Pending verificationSourcesPostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Annex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Salsbury Industries (mailboxes.com) — 4B+ horizontal mailbox, 20 A doors, rear loading, private access (3620ARP)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Salsbury Industries (mailboxes.com) — 4B+ horizontal mailbox, 35 A doors, rear loading, private access (3635ARP)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California Secretary of State — Notary forms, services and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Computed from 14 startup budget line items: lean plan low to professional plan high. Some lines are not sourced yet and are excluded.
Startup cost
Coming soon
Time to first revenue
Moderate
Difficulty
Low
Physical demand
No
Can run solo
Busiest in the year-end holiday shipping season
Seasonality
* Startup cost excludes budget lines we haven't sourced yet.
Risk Meter
Eight factors from this guide's own data, each scored 1 (lowest risk) to 5 (highest). Every score shows why.
Overall risk
Low
1.7 out of 5
Average of 6 of 8 factors, weighted equally. 1 is the lowest risk and 5 the highest. It measures risk, not how much you'll earn, and it isn't a prediction. How we score risk.
Money at risk
Not scoredAt least $275,040
3 startup lines aren't sourced yet, so the real total is higher. We'll score this once the budget is complete.
Time to earn it back
Not scoredNo data
This guide has no sourced revenue forecast.
Franchise closure rate
2 / 53.9% a yearPending verificationSourcesThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026PostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Annex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Closures = terminations + non-renewals + outlets that ceased operations, divided by franchised outlets at the start of the year.
Average of 3 brands: The UPS Store 0.9% (2025); PostNet 6.6% (2025); PostalAnnex (Annex Brands; also Pak Mail and AIM Mail Centers) 4.3% (2025). Our calculation from each FDD's Item 20.
Loan default rate
2 / 54.1% vs 7.2% for all industriesPending verificationSourceSBA 7(a) FOIA loan-level data, files as of September 30, 2026 (our count by NAICS code)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Charged off = the SBA wrote off the unpaid balance after the borrower stopped paying. An industry code can include businesses unlike this one.
16 of 387 SBA 7(a) loans to Private Mail Centers (NAICS 561431), approved FY2010–2019, were charged off. Our count from the SBA's loan-level data; 39 loans were still open, so the final rate may be slightly higher.
Demand trend
1 / 5Growing much faster than all businessesPending verificationSourcesU.S. Census Bureau — County Business Patterns 2019, U.S. file (cbp19us)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026U.S. Census Bureau — County Business Patterns 2023, U.S. file (cbp23us)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026
Private mail centers (NAICS 561431) employer establishments +47.7% (5,155 to 7,614) vs +5.1% for all industries, 2019–2023.
Licensing and rules
3 / 5Moderate
Renting mailboxes requires USPS Commercial Mail Receiving Agency registration (PS Form 1583-A) with ID checks and quarterly compliance, plus a California seller's permit and a city or county business license (see Licensing).
Customer concentration
1 / 5Many customers
Many walk-in customers and mailbox renters; losing one barely matters.
Physical demand
1 / 5Low
From the guide's at-a-glance rating; see the risks section for details.
Franchise vs. Independent
Same type of business. Two very different paths.
| Franchise (3 brands) | Independent | |
|---|---|---|
| Franchise fee | $35,000 – $39,950Pending verificationSourcesThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026PostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Annex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Range across 3 franchise brands. | $0 |
| Initial investment | $222,368 – $606,081Pending verificationSourcesThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026PostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Annex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 7 estimated initial investment (includes the franchise fee), across 3 brands. | $66,387 – $275,040*Pending verificationSourcesPostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Annex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Salsbury Industries (mailboxes.com) — 4B+ horizontal mailbox, 20 A doors, rear loading, private access (3620ARP)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Salsbury Industries (mailboxes.com) — 4B+ horizontal mailbox, 35 A doors, rear loading, private access (3635ARP)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California Secretary of State — Notary forms, services and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Computed from 14 startup budget line items: lean plan low to professional plan high. Some lines are not sourced yet and are excluded. |
| Ongoing royalties | 5% of revenuePending verificationSourcesThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026PostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Annex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Percent of gross revenue, across 3 brands. | None |
| Operating costs (5 years) | $101,400 – $376,900Pending verificationSourcesThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026PostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Annex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Five years of the operating costs we have sourced so far (insurance, software, fees), charged to both paths. | $101,400 – $376,900 |
| Brand, training, and support | Included | You build your own |
Franchise fee
- Franchise (3 brands)
- $35,000 – $39,950Pending verificationSourcesThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026PostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Annex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Range across 3 franchise brands.
- Independent
- $0
Initial investment
- Franchise (3 brands)
- $222,368 – $606,081Pending verificationSourcesThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026PostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Annex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 7 estimated initial investment (includes the franchise fee), across 3 brands.
- Independent
- $66,387 – $275,040*Pending verificationSourcesPostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Annex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Salsbury Industries (mailboxes.com) — 4B+ horizontal mailbox, 20 A doors, rear loading, private access (3620ARP)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Salsbury Industries (mailboxes.com) — 4B+ horizontal mailbox, 35 A doors, rear loading, private access (3635ARP)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California Secretary of State — Notary forms, services and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Computed from 14 startup budget line items: lean plan low to professional plan high. Some lines are not sourced yet and are excluded.
Ongoing royalties
- Franchise (3 brands)
- 5% of revenuePending verificationSourcesThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026PostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Annex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Percent of gross revenue, across 3 brands.
- Independent
- None
Operating costs (5 years)
- Franchise (3 brands)
- $101,400 – $376,900Pending verificationSourcesThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026PostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Annex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Five years of the operating costs we have sourced so far (insurance, software, fees), charged to both paths.
- Independent
- $101,400 – $376,900
Brand, training, and support
- Franchise (3 brands)
- Included
- Independent
- You build your own
We don't have a sourced revenue forecast for this business, so royalties and 5-year totals depend on your own numbers. Enter your expected revenue on the comparison page. Franchise investment figures come from each brand's disclosure (FDD Item 7) and already include the franchise fee. * Excludes independent startup lines we haven't sourced yet. Adjust the assumptions.
What franchisees report taking in
From each brand's own disclosure (FDD Item 19), copied exactly. These are gross sales before royalties and costs, not profit, and not a promise of what you will earn.
The UPS Store
The 2026 FDD reports 2025 adjusted gross sales (not profit) for 5,058 franchised storefront centers open and reporting all year, with the top and bottom 10%.
- Average 2025 adjusted gross sales, 5,058 franchised Traditional centers open and reporting all of 2025$724,293 a yearPending verificationSourceThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19. 'Adjusted gross sales' are sales (without sales tax) plus commissions, and include the UPS shipping charges customers pay, before royalties and all expenses. Not profit. From unaudited franchisee reports. Traditional (storefront) centers only; leaves out 183 centers not open or not reporting all of 2025 and 267 non-traditional centers. Your results may differ. 2,263 centers (45%) exceeded this average.
- Median 2025 adjusted gross sales, same 5,058 centers$692,858 a yearPending verificationSourceThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19. 'Adjusted gross sales' are sales (without sales tax) plus commissions, and include the UPS shipping charges customers pay, before royalties and all expenses. Not profit. From unaudited franchisee reports. Traditional (storefront) centers only; leaves out 183 centers not open or not reporting all of 2025 and 267 non-traditional centers. Your results may differ.
- Average 2025 adjusted gross sales, top 10% (506 centers)$1,248,208 a yearPending verificationSourceThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19. 'Adjusted gross sales' are sales (without sales tax) plus commissions, and include the UPS shipping charges customers pay, before royalties and all expenses. Not profit. From unaudited franchisee reports. Traditional (storefront) centers only; leaves out 183 centers not open or not reporting all of 2025 and 267 non-traditional centers. Your results may differ. 189 of these 506 centers (37%) exceeded this average.
- Average 2025 adjusted gross sales, bottom 10% (506 centers)$345,790 a yearPending verificationSourceThe UPS Store (Traditional) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 23, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19. 'Adjusted gross sales' are sales (without sales tax) plus commissions, and include the UPS shipping charges customers pay, before royalties and all expenses. Not profit. From unaudited franchisee reports. Traditional (storefront) centers only; leaves out 183 centers not open or not reporting all of 2025 and 267 non-traditional centers. Your results may differ. 298 of these 506 centers (59%) exceeded this average.
PostNet
The 2026 FDD reports 2025 gross sales (not profit) for 183 U.S. franchised centers open 12 months or more, with averages and medians by sales band.
- Average 2025 gross sales, 183 franchised centers open 12+ months$360,178 a yearPending verificationSourcePostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Table 19-1. Gross sales before royalties and all expenses, not profit, as reported by franchisees. Leaves out 21 of 204 U.S. centers (opened during 2025, closed, PostNet Express, legacy, or missing reports). Twelve centers closed during 2025. Your results may differ. 77 centers (42%) met or exceeded this average.
- Median 2025 gross sales, same 183 centers$342,385 a yearPending verificationSourcePostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Table 19-1. Gross sales before royalties and all expenses, not profit, as reported by franchisees. Leaves out 21 of 204 U.S. centers (opened during 2025, closed, PostNet Express, legacy, or missing reports). Twelve centers closed during 2025. Your results may differ.
- Average 2025 gross sales, upper 25% (45 centers)$662,577 a yearPending verificationSourcePostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Table 19-1. Gross sales before royalties and all expenses, not profit, as reported by franchisees. Leaves out 21 of 204 U.S. centers (opened during 2025, closed, PostNet Express, legacy, or missing reports). Twelve centers closed during 2025. Your results may differ. 16 of these 45 centers (36%) met or exceeded this average.
- Average 2025 gross sales, lower 25% (46 centers)$137,279 a yearPending verificationSourcePostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Table 19-1. Gross sales before royalties and all expenses, not profit, as reported by franchisees. Leaves out 21 of 204 U.S. centers (opened during 2025, closed, PostNet Express, legacy, or missing reports). Twelve centers closed during 2025. Your results may differ. 24 of these 46 centers (52%) met or exceeded this average.
PostalAnnex (Annex Brands; also Pak Mail and AIM Mail Centers)
The 2026 FDD reports gross sales (not profit) for the year ended September 30, 2025, for 527 franchised standard and flex centers open 12 months or more, across all Annex Brands names.
- Average gross sales, year ended Sept. 30, 2025, 527 franchised centers open 12+ months$368,000 a yearPending verificationSourceAnnex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Chart 2, fiscal year ended September 30, 2025. Gross sales include low-margin postage stamps and metered postage, and are before royalties and all expenses; not profit. Unaudited franchisee reports. Leaves out 22 centers open less than 12 months and all express centers. 24 centers closed during the year. Your results may differ. 219 centers (42%) met or exceeded this average.
- Median gross sales, same 527 centers$331,000 a yearPending verificationSourceAnnex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Chart 2, fiscal year ended September 30, 2025. Gross sales include low-margin postage stamps and metered postage, and are before royalties and all expenses; not profit. Unaudited franchisee reports. Leaves out 22 centers open less than 12 months and all express centers. 24 centers closed during the year. Your results may differ.
- Average gross sales, upper 50% (264 centers)$523,000 a yearPending verificationSourceAnnex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Chart 2, fiscal year ended September 30, 2025. Gross sales include low-margin postage stamps and metered postage, and are before royalties and all expenses; not profit. Unaudited franchisee reports. Leaves out 22 centers open less than 12 months and all express centers. 24 centers closed during the year. Your results may differ. 101 of these 264 centers (38%) met or exceeded this average.
- Average gross sales, lower 50% (263 centers)$213,000 a yearPending verificationSourceAnnex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 19, Chart 2, fiscal year ended September 30, 2025. Gross sales include low-margin postage stamps and metered postage, and are before royalties and all expenses; not profit. Unaudited franchisee reports. Leaves out 22 centers open less than 12 months and all express centers. 24 centers closed during the year. Your results may differ. 140 of these 263 centers (53%) met or exceeded this average.
What a franchise does give you
Franchises cost more, but the fees buy real things. Weigh them honestly.
- The best-known name in the category: 5,503 centers, 5,487 of them franchised, at the end of 2025 (FDD Item 20)
- Shipping rates and the UPS relationship are arranged by the franchisor
- Corporate programs (such as consolidated returns) that send customers to every center
- Initial training, site survey and a franchisor-managed build-out
- National advertising paid for by the brand fund
- Strong focus on printing and business services alongside shipping
- A turnkey center development package of equipment, fixtures and signage
- A conversion path with a reduced fee for owners of existing independent stores
- Initial training and a franchisor-supplied point-of-sale system
- A network of 204 U.S. centers (end of 2025) to learn from
- Several regional brand names under one franchisor: 549 standard and flex centers as of September 30, 2025
- Carrier shipping accounts and group transit insurance arranged by the franchisor
- A designated contractor and architect for the build-out
- PostalMate point-of-sale software built for pack-and-ship stores
- A 50% fee discount to convert an existing independent store
Going independent means
- You keep 100% of what you earn after costs — no royalties.
- You build your own brand, systems, and customer base.
- You need more self-reliance, especially in the first year.
Startup Budget
One-time costs to launch, from cited sources. Totals are added up from the lines below.
| Item | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lease security deposit and utility depositsPending verificationSourcePostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026PostNet 2026 FDD Item 7 estimate, including a two-month deposit to the landlord. Depends on your lease, your credit and your area. | $3,000 | $5,500 | $8,000 |
| Build-out of a small space (counters, shelving, electrical) | Data coming soon | ||
| Private mailboxes, one rear-loading unit (20 to 35 doors)Pending verificationSourcesSalsbury Industries (mailboxes.com) — 4B+ horizontal mailbox, 20 A doors, rear loading, private access (3620ARP)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Salsbury Industries (mailboxes.com) — 4B+ horizontal mailbox, 35 A doors, rear loading, private access (3635ARP)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Salsbury Industries list prices: $2,547 for 20 doors, $4,437 for 35 doors. Before freight and installation. Add units as you rent boxes. | $2,547 | $3,492 | $4,437 |
| Exterior signPending verificationSourceAnnex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026From the Annex Brands 2026 FDD Item 7 (standard or flex retail center), a franchisor's estimate for a franchised store. An independent store buys its own and may spend less or more. | $6,000 | $7,000 | $8,000 |
| Shipping equipment (scales, packing tools)Pending verificationSourceAnnex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026From the Annex Brands 2026 FDD Item 7 (standard or flex retail center), a franchisor's estimate for a franchised store. An independent store buys its own and may spend less or more. | $4,500 | $5,750 | $7,000 |
| Computers and point-of-sale/shipping softwarePending verificationSourceAnnex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026From the Annex Brands 2026 FDD Item 7 (standard or flex retail center), a franchisor's estimate for a franchised store. An independent store buys its own and may spend less or more. Includes a PostalMate POS license. Independent pricing for pack-and-ship software (PostalMate, ShipRite) is not published. | $5,000 | $9,000 | $13,000 |
| Opening inventory (boxes, packing materials, supplies for sale)Pending verificationSourceAnnex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026From the Annex Brands 2026 FDD Item 7 (standard or flex retail center), a franchisor's estimate for a franchised store. An independent store buys its own and may spend less or more. | $5,000 | $6,000 | $7,000 |
| Carrier accounts (UPS, FedEx, USPS) | Data coming soon | ||
| Business license, permits and registrationsPending verificationSourceAnnex Brands Retail Centers (PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, AIM Mail Centers) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued February 4, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026From the Annex Brands 2026 FDD Item 7 (standard or flex retail center), a franchisor's estimate for a franchised store. An independent store buys its own and may spend less or more. California's seller's permit itself is free (CDTFA), though CDTFA may ask for a security deposit. | $300 | $1,150 | $2,000 |
| California notary commission applicationPending verificationSourceCalifornia Secretary of State — Notary forms, services and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Secretary of State application fee only. The required six-hour course, Live Scan fingerprinting, surety bond, seal and journal cost extra and are not included here. | $40 | $40 | $40 |
| Grand-opening marketing | Data coming soon | ||
| Working capital for the first 3 monthsPending verificationSourcePostNet 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 6, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026PostNet 2026 FDD Item 7 'additional funds' for the first three months (The UPS Store estimates $40,000 to $70,000). A new store usually runs at a loss while mailbox rentals build up. | $40,000 | $50,000 | $60,000 |
| Total (sourced lines only) | $66,387 | $87,932 | $109,477 |
Share of mid estimate
- Lease security deposit and utility deposits6%
- Private mailboxes, one rear-loading unit (20 to 35 doors)4%
- Exterior sign8%
- Shipping equipment (scales, packing tools)7%
- Computers and point-of-sale/shipping software10%
- Opening inventory (boxes, packing materials, supplies for sale)7%
- Business license, permits and registrations1%
- California notary commission application0%
- Working capital for the first 3 months57%
Budget spreadsheet
Every line with its sources, included in the complete kit.
Mid is the halfway point between low and high where a source gives only a range.
The total leaves out 3 lines we haven't sourced yet. We don't guess.
24-Month Forecast
An example to plan with. Every assumption is yours to change.
Data coming soon
The forecast isn't published yet. We only show numbers we can source.
Pricing
What customers typically pay, from large-sample cost data.
What customers pay
- Small private mailbox, independent store (Long Beach, CA)$20 – $22 a monthPending verificationSourceOut of the Box, Long Beach CA (independent store, UPS Authorized Shipping Outlet) — mailbox rental prices(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026One store's published list: $20 a month on a 12-month term, $22 on a 3-month term. No setup fee; 24-hour access is $3 a month extra.
- Large private mailbox, independent store (Long Beach, CA)$38 – $40 a monthPending verificationSourceOut of the Box, Long Beach CA (independent store, UPS Authorized Shipping Outlet) — mailbox rental prices(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026One store's published list: $38 a month on a 12-month term, $40 on a 3-month term.
- Private mailbox, small to large, franchised store (Clovis, CA)$30 – $45 a monthPending verificationSourceThe UPS Store, 1865 Herndon Ave, Clovis CA — mailbox services prices(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026One The UPS Store location's published rates: small $30, medium $37, large $45 a month, billed in 3-, 6- or 12-month terms. Each franchised store sets its own prices.
- Notary acknowledgment, per signature (California legal maximum)$15Pending verificationSourceCalifornia AB 2217 (2016), enrolled text amending Government Code §8211 (notary fees)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Government Code §8211 as amended by AB 2217 (2016). This is a cap; you may charge less. Confirm the current amount with the Secretary of State.
What similar businesses take in
Context only, not a promise of what you will earn. Government figures cover every business in the industry; guide figures are rougher. Tap the source icon to see which is which. These are revenue, before costs.
- Average receipts per establishment, all employer firms, NAICS 561431 Private Mail Centers, U.S., 2022$642,021 a yearPending verificationSourceU.S. Census Bureau — 2022 Statistics of U.S. Businesses (SUSB), U.S. and states by 6-digit NAICS (receipts in $1,000)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Total receipts divided by the number of establishments (our arithmetic on the Census totals, rounded to the nearest dollar). An average, pulled up by larger stores. Receipts are sales before any expenses, not profit. Context only, not a promise or prediction of your results.
- Average receipts per establishment, employer firms with fewer than 5 employees, NAICS 561431 Private Mail Centers, U.S., 2022$367,723 a yearPending verificationSourceU.S. Census Bureau — 2022 Statistics of U.S. Businesses (SUSB), U.S. and states by 6-digit NAICS (receipts in $1,000)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Total receipts divided by the number of establishments (our arithmetic on the Census totals, rounded to the nearest dollar). An average, pulled up by larger stores. Receipts are sales before any expenses, not profit. Context only, not a promise or prediction of your results.
- Average receipts per establishment, all employer firms, NAICS 561431 Private Mail Centers, California, 2022$655,114 a yearPending verificationSourceU.S. Census Bureau — 2022 Statistics of U.S. Businesses (SUSB), U.S. and states by 6-digit NAICS (receipts in $1,000)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Total receipts divided by the number of establishments (our arithmetic on the Census totals, rounded to the nearest dollar). An average, pulled up by larger stores. Receipts are sales before any expenses, not profit. Context only, not a promise or prediction of your results.
- Average receipts per nonemployer (solo, no payroll) business, NAICS 56143 Business Service Centers (private mail centers plus copy shops and similar), U.S., 2024$35,436 a yearPending verificationSourceU.S. Census Bureau — 2024 Nonemployer Statistics, U.S. file (receipts in $1,000)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Total receipts divided by the number of establishments (our arithmetic on the Census totals, rounded to the nearest dollar). An average, pulled up by larger stores. Receipts are sales before any expenses, not profit. Context only, not a promise or prediction of your results. Nonemployer figures are only published at this broader 5-digit level, and many of these are part-time or home-based.
Key Risks and How to Manage Them
Long retail hours
Customers expect the store open on weekdays and usually Saturdays, often 50 or more hours a week. Carrier programs expect regular weekday hours. That is hard on an owner working alone.
How to manage it: Budget for at least one part-time employee from the start, and choose hours you can staff before you sign a lease.
A multi-year lease
Rent is the biggest fixed cost, and a retail lease usually runs several years with a personal guarantee. A poor location is hard to escape.
How to manage it: Pick a site with parking and foot traffic near homes and small businesses, negotiate a shorter first term or an exit clause, and have a lawyer read the lease.
Carrier discounts you don't control
Shipping margins depend on carrier discounts and drop-off incentives that the carriers can change. According to Retail Shipping Associates, UPS grants its Authorized Shipping Outlet status to non-franchise stores by exception only.
How to manage it: Apply to the FedEx and UPS retail programs early, look at shipping-store buying groups, and build income that doesn't depend on one carrier: mailboxes, printing, notary.
Postal rules for mailbox rental
Renting mailboxes makes you a Commercial Mail Receiving Agency. USPS requires a signed PS Form 1583 and two IDs for every box holder, database entry, and quarterly certification. Lapses can lead to suspension.
How to manage it: Learn DMM 508.1.8 before opening, use software that tracks Form 1583s and ID expiry, and certify every quarter on time.
Slow build-up of mailbox customers
Mailbox rent is steady income, but it fills slowly. A new store can take many months to cover rent and wages.
How to manage it: Keep several months of working capital, and promote mailboxes to home-based businesses and new residents from day one.
Damaged packages and notary mistakes
Customers hold you responsible when a package you packed arrives broken, and a notary error can lead to a claim.
How to manage it: Follow carrier packing standards, offer declared-value coverage, carry business liability insurance, and keep a careful notary journal.
Licensing by State
Requirements vary by state and local jurisdiction.
More states are coming.
A general guide only. Rules change and vary by city and county — confirm with your local government before you start.
USPS Commercial Mail Receiving Agency (CMRA) registration
Pending verificationPending verificationSourcesUSPS Domestic Mail Manual 508.1.8 — Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026USPS PS Form 1583 — Application for Delivery of Mail Through Agent(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Before renting private mailboxes, register with the local Post Office on PS Form 1583-A, showing ID. Each box holder must complete a PS Form 1583 and show two current IDs. Addresses must use 'PMB' or '#', records go into the USPS CMRA database, and you certify compliance each quarter (January, April, July and October 15). Keep forms for at least 6 months after a box closes (DMM 508.1.8).
Verify with the USPS Domestic Mail Manual 508.1.8(opens in a new tab)California seller's permit (CDTFA)
Pending verificationPending verificationSourceCDTFA — Obtaining a Seller's Permit (FAQ)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026You sell boxes, packing supplies and other taxable goods, so you need a seller's permit. There is no charge for the permit, but CDTFA may require a security deposit.
Verify with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration(opens in a new tab)City or county business license
Pending verificationRequired almost everywhere in California, along with zoning approval for the storefront. Check with the city where the store is located.
Notary public commission (if you offer notary)
Pending verificationPending verificationSourcesCalifornia Secretary of State — Become a Notary Public(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California Secretary of State — Notary forms, services and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California AB 2217 (2016), enrolled text amending Government Code §8211 (notary fees)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Complete a state-approved six-hour course, pass the written exam, clear a Live Scan background check, then file your oath and bond. The application fee is $40. The maximum fee for an acknowledgment is $15 per signature.
Verify with the California Secretary of State — Notary Public(opens in a new tab)
The Playbook
A step-by-step guide from setup to growth.
Phase 1
Setup
- Form your business and get a city license and seller's permit
- Find and lease a storefront with parking and foot traffic
- Apply to the FedEx, UPS and USPS retail programs
- Register as a CMRA with your local Post Office
- Buy mailboxes, scales, POS software and opening inventory
- Get your notary commission and insurance in place
Phase 2
Build-out
Included in the complete kit
Phase 3
Launch
Included in the complete kit
Phase 4
Marketing
Included in the complete kit
Phase 5
Operations
Included in the complete kit
Phase 6
Hiring
Included in the complete kit
Phase 7
Growth
Included in the complete kit
Suppliers and Tools
Vendors independent operators use.
No supplier pays to be listed. If we ever earn a referral fee from a link, it will say “Affiliate link” right next to it.
Private mailboxes
Commercial rear-loading mailbox units and parcel lockers.
Carrier retail programs
Programs that let an independent store sell a carrier's services at program pricing.
Software and supplies
Pack-and-ship point-of-sale software and packing materials.
The Kit Is Coming
Everything on this page is free. The downloadable kit (playbook, spreadsheets, templates) is in the works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a franchise?
No. The Open Franchise is not a franchise and does not sell franchises. You start and own your store yourself, with no franchise fee, royalties, or territory rules. We sell guides and kits; that's all.
Can I really open a shipping store without a franchise?
Yes. Many independent stores operate today, often through FedEx's Authorized ShipCenter program, USPS's Approved Shipper program, and, in some areas, UPS's Authorized Shipping Outlet program. What you give up is a known brand and the carrier discounts a franchisor negotiates for its whole network. UPS outlet status in particular is hard for independents to get.
Can I run the store by myself?
Not for long. The work is light, but a store is usually open six days a week for 50 or more hours. Plan on at least one part-time helper so you can take a day off and cover lunch, errands and sick days.
Are these numbers guaranteed?
No. Every cost and price is from a cited source, shown as a range where possible, with the date we last checked it. Many startup costs come from franchisors' own estimates, and an independent store may spend less. Your costs and results will depend on your location and choices.
Figures last verified October 31, 2026. Every number links to its source. See all sources for this page.