USPS policy requires centralized mail delivery, but lock shortages leave residents relying on post office pickups-sometimes for up to a year. A Congressional representative may help expedite the process by submitting a service request to the USPS. Here are the details, and how to submit the request. To view PDF click on link: HBAR USPS Notice to Buyers 5.16.25.pdfTo reduce delivery costs, the United States Postal Service (USPS) in 2012 revised the Postal Operations Manual (POM) to include an expressed preference for centralized mail delivery as the preferred delivery mode for new addresses. In 2018, USPS revised the POM again, replacing the preference for centralized delivery with an explicit statement that curbside, sidewalk delivery, and door delivery modes are generally not available for new delivery points. The USPS, in its sole discretion, can determine very rare exceptions to this policy, on a case-by-case basis. It is the policy of the USPS that mail delivery to all new residential developments is centralized delivery, most often using cluster box units (CBUs). In the Richmond District, it is the responsibility of the developer and builder to provide the necessary CBU. Builders and developers request approval from USPS for cluster box installation at the earliest phase of development to ensure mail delivery is available for future homeowners. However, the USPS must install a master lock to the CSU before mail delivery service can begin. These locks are only supplied by the USPS, not the builder or developer. The USPS has a limited supply of locks, so it may take 8-12 months before the locks are installed, and mail delivery can begin. According to the USPS, the only alternative for residents to obtain their mail is pick up at their local post office. If you are not receiving mail due to the USPS' inability to provide master locks, it's recommended that you contact your local Congressional representative. Your Congressional representative can file a service request with the USPS. While not guaranteed, a service request from a member of Congress will put pressure on the USPS to elevate CSU lock installation to a new residential community. Click HERE to find your member of Congress and their contact information. Your communication can be as simple as:”I am a new homeowner and do not receive mail at my address. My builder installed a cluster box unit for mail delivery, but the USPS has not installed the master lock. Mail delivery cannot begin until the USPS installs the master lock. Will you please help me escalate this issue to USPS?”HBAR.ORG I 400 N. RIDGE ROAD, HENRICO, VIRGINIA 23229