As A Travel Nurse, What Do You Do With Your Mail?

Travel nurses are often on assignments that last anywhere from 30 days to 13 weeks. And today, we know that many people prefer the convenience of receiving important information electronically, via email or through an app. But what about traditional mail and packages? Where do they go in the interim?

Travel healthcare workers have several options when it comes to their mail. First, if you have a partner, family member or roommate that lives at your permanent residence, you likely won’t have to worry. Just be sure to carve out some time to sift through a stack of envelopes once you get back.

We know the last thing you want to deal with after traveling is rifling through piles of junk mail. Let’s talk about some more convenient, realistic options.

Put Your Mail On Hold
This may be the best choice if you’re on a quick, 30-day travel assignment. By utilizing the USPS Hold Mail service, your local post office will hold your mail until you return. Your mail carrier will resume your regular mail delivery when you return. Schedule USPS Hold Mail Service here.

Mail Forwarding
The United States Postal Service offers temporary mail forwarding services, ranging from two weeks to one full year. Per USPS, “Although mail forwarding may begin within 3 business days of your submitted request, it’s best to allow up to two weeks.” If you opt to forward your mail through USPS, you should receive it (yes, junk mail is included) at your temporary address, piece by piece.

PO Boxes
Just like businesses, individuals have the option to rent PO boxes (cost will vary). Some PO box locations are open 24/7, while others have traditional business hours. Remember, if you choose to rent a PO box, you’ll still have to forward your mail to the PO box address. Also, keep in mind that some mail might not be able to be delivered to a PO box, depending on the sender’s restrictions, as well as the size of the item(s).

UPS Store Mailboxes and Lockers
Consider opening a mailbox at The UPS Store. A UPS Store mailbox comes with a real street address and professional help from the UPS Store team members. Users receive text alerts to inform them of arrivals. And for added convenience, many locations provide 24-hour access to your mailbox. In addition to a personal mailbox, The UPS Store also offers a 24/7 locker service, which is meant for larger packages. https://www.theupsstore.com/mailboxes

Sign Up for PostScan
Have you heard of a virtual mailbox? PostScan Mail uses secure digital technology to scan your mail and deliver it in a virtual mailbox. PostScan Mail will scan the front of your mail and then gives you the option to have them open and scanned, recycled, or physically forwarded to a current address. This can be an extremely convenient option for travelers who live alone, or for those who prefer total privacy when it comes to their items. The virtual mailbox is secure and for your eyes only.

Consult a Trusted Neighbor or Friend
If the above options don’t seem like a good fit, you can always go the traditional route by asking a neighbor, family member or friend to get your mail and keep it at their home while you’re out of town. Bonus points if they recycle the junk mail for you!

Whether you’re taking on a quick gig or an extended assignment, you’ve got lots of mailing options to help give you peace of mind during your absence.

Do you have additional questions about travel nursing assignments? LeaderStat has a team of experienced recruiters that are happy to help!