Should I choose a temporary or permanent USPS change of address?

Choose based on whether you intend to resume receiving mail at your previous address. Your USPS forwarding request and your Traveling Mailbox subscription are separate arrangements.

Choose temporary forwarding for a planned return

A temporary change of address is designed for time away when you plan to return to your previous address. You specify a beginning and end date. USPS allows an initial temporary forwarding period of 15–185 days, with an extension process for up to 364 consecutive days in total.

When temporary forwarding ends, mail covered by that request resumes delivery to the original address. Mail addressed directly to Traveling Mailbox will still come to us unless you update those senders.

Choose permanent forwarding for an ongoing mailing-address change

A permanent change of address is generally appropriate when you want your mail redirected on an ongoing basis rather than for a defined trip. “Permanent” does not mean USPS forwards every type of mail forever. Standard forwarding generally covers the first 12 months, with different rules for particular mail classes. Periodicals, including many magazines, have a 60-day forwarding period.

Update senders directly so they use your new mailing address. Review the USPS forwarding guide for current eligibility and extension options.

Before you decide

• If you will return home after a seasonal trip, review temporary forwarding.
• If you are leaving your old address and want ongoing delivery to Traveling Mailbox, review permanent forwarding and update your senders.
• If your plans change, update the USPS request separately from your mailbox subscription.

What happens when I close my Traveling Mailbox?

Canceling your subscription does not cancel or reverse a USPS change of address. You cannot submit a USPS change of address away from a Traveling Mailbox address. Before closing, notify senders directly and review any temporary forwarding end date. See our account closure guidance.

For detailed USPS time limits, see Domestic Mail Manual 507, section 2.1.

Need help?

For help confirming your Traveling Mailbox address or account setup, call 855-749-1737 or +1 919-561-6631, or schedule a Zoom Support appointment. USPS must handle approval, identity verification, or changes to a USPS forwarding request.

Support hours: Monday–Friday, 8 AM–8 PM, and Saturday–Sunday, 9 AM–5 PM Eastern Time. Holiday closures apply.