Outdoor Living & Lifestyles - curbside package delivery box

Sorry I wasn't sure where to put this.

I need to construct some kind of box that will receive packages at our home.

We are 1/2 mile from our mailboxes on a private drive with 12 other houses. We are separated by 2.5 acres. Special deliveries, i.e.: FedX etc, UPS, even the post office have become a problem.

We have two big German Shepherds, and there is a sign on our house number, requesting deliveries to honk if they see the dogs out. The dogs have an invisible fence but are still intimidating - funny, except to the female drivers.

Commercially these things cost 600.00, a little much for our needs. We are not so worried about the safety of packages, more the deliverability. I know I have seen a key type exchange one somewhere, but can't remember how it works.

Can anyone remind me and/or give me an idea how to construct one?

Thanks tons,
Beth

If anyone knows a better forum area to place this, I would appreciate some input.

I know with all this awful weather that this might not seem to be of the greatest importance, but is there anyone out there familiar with these?

Also, should this get buried, do people read into the older threads for things in their expertise?

Thanks!

not really able to tell you very much about how to build a box but if it involves recieving USPS deliveries, you would need to contact them. They tend to get a bit particular about what they place their deliveried in.
(notice the "approved by the postmanster general" on most mailboxes)

as far as having a lockable box the delievery person would need to unlock to utilize; you would need to call each possible delivery source to inquire of the possibility and logistics of using such a box.

Take note, again, the USPS tend to be a pain. I know it is illegal to place unstamped mail in a regular mail box. There may be some restrictions on a common box as you would need as well. Speak with the postmaster of your local office for guidance.

Post office notwithstanding, I have seen a large chest style box with a simple lock. Delivery is placed inside, open top is pushed down and locks.

Another variation, my preference, is a tad large and a variation of the letter drop box. Front pivots into the box when pushed, package is dropped through, door closes by itself. You cannot readily remove the package because of the obstruction of the swinging door. You unlock it from the back or end to remove the package.

Thank you again.

This may be a dream, but is there some kind of contraption where you leave a key in the box and if a package is deposited, the delivery person locks the box, then puts the key in your mail box? I might just be thinking of college days.

I was also curious if most services have a "sign" waivier if signed once.

Sorry I am thinking out loud, but just incase someone else might be interested, I will check with the companies once the weather changes a bit.

Stay warm!