Receiving actual mail and shipments is an often-overlooked aspect of launching a new business, particularly if your company is entirely online or scattered across the globe. And in order for all business processes to work correctly, and you do not lose sight of anything, you need a reliable tool. Based on our own experience with using a virtual mailbox, we provide you with a comprehensive answer to the question you need to rent an address for business.
What is a virtual address used for?
A virtual mailbox is a service that receives your physical mail on your behalf. And now it is already a very popular business tool that has really become a simplification of all the usual processes.
The following is a list of the things you may anticipate from a virtual mailbox.
- You can have a single physical US address that will never change regardless of where you live;
- When mail comes, the service examines the outside of envelopes and parcels;
- You look at scans of your incoming mail and tell the provider whether you want to destroy, store, or transmit it;
- Some services will also open your mail and scan the information for you.
You can also request your service provider, such as Hoxton Mix, that incoming checks be deposited at any US bank. Even if you reside in the United States and have a physical postal address, this feature set gives a unique experience for each individual.
Can you use a virtual address for my LLC?
Because it is a genuine physical location, using a virtual address for an LLC is totally lawful. You can use this address while establishing and registering your company. This offers you a more professional appearance. To use any of these addresses, you do not need to be a limited corporation. Auto entrepreneurs might also profit from utilizing a virtual address, especially if they work from home.
Is the virtual address secured?
If you choose a trusted service, using virtual addresses is absolutely secure. These service providers have put in place secure protocols and systems to ensure that your mail is always handled securely. Employees, for example, are subjected to a thorough background check, and mail is opened in secure facilities. There is nothing left to chance.
Furthermore, the providers utilize internet security and virus protection to secure your online data. This eliminates the need to worry about accessing your mail once it has been scanned. In general, because it conceals your real location, using this form of address is frequently safer than using a standard postal address.
Is a virtual address a physical address?
A virtual address cannot be translated into a physical address. A virtual address, on the other hand, is a real address that comes with a virtual mailbox.
Where can I get a virtual address?
As you can see, a virtual address is a mailbox that you rent from a service provider such as Hoxton mix. Before enrolling, be sure to double-check the provider’s security precautions. After that, you may begin working with confidence.
How to choose the right service for your business?
Choosing the best virtual mailbox depends on several factors. What works best for one business may not work as well for another. To help you, we have compiled a list of criteria that are often used by virtual mailboxes. Our methodology details why each criterion needs to be considered in order to find the right solution.
Permanent Address and Mailbox
While some virtual mailbox services provide owners with a mailbox to receive mail, others offer a permanent mailing address. For businesses, a permanent address is usually the best solution. Your virtual mailbox will have a physical address for all mail, just like you would use a regular location for your business.
While a PO box can be useful for picking up regular mail, they are not a good option for picking up packages as some couriers don’t deliver. Also, most banks require a physical address when opening a business bank account.
Available business services
Your virtual mailbox doesn’t have to be just a virtual mailbox. Some services are more business-focused than others, thanks to features such as package collection and forwarding. Business owners can also receive mailed checks without having to physically process them using services like Anytime Mailbox.
Some virtual mailbox services, like Hoxton mix, go even further, offering features such as micro-logistics where they unpack and ship items separately. The services of a registered agent can also be useful for companies that need to obtain legal documents or officially register their business.
Account Users
If your business has multiple team members receiving mail, you’ll need a virtual mailbox service that allows you to use additional users.
Some services may create sub-accounts for people in your business to receive and check mail without having their own accounts. The service stores their mail in their sub-account, allowing them to scan and view mail privately.
Physical locations
Services with hundreds and thousands of physical locations make it easy to find a virtual mailbox near you. While your mailbox is virtual, it’s still good to have one that suits your business. For example, if you serve customers primarily in the US, then it makes sense to have a physical address in the US rather than in a neighboring state.
Some services also have mailboxes internationally, which can be useful for companies serving global customers. And if your service does not offer mail or package forwarding, you need to find a physical location that is as close as possible for convenient delivery.
Length and storage space
How long does a virtual mailbox keep your mail in its database? How many pieces will it store at one time? These variables vary across virtual mailbox services. Some allow you to store up to 30 pieces for 30 days, while others offer unlimited storage for 180+ days.
While small businesses and entrepreneurs can probably save money by opting for shorter storage times, large companies are likely to miss out on the amount of storage and time they need from these more modest services.
