Undergraduate Mail

Policies

Proper Use of Mailboxes

Columbia University issues mailboxes and mailbox keys to Columbia students only. Students are not permitted to use these boxes for relatives or guests. Incoming mail for non-Columbia students is returned to the sender. Similarly, keys should not be given to others for convenience.

Mailboxes should always be closed tightly. If a mailbox does not close or lock properly, please notify Student Mail Services immediately so that it can be repaired.

 

Return Package Policy

All packages are kept for 14 days. If not picked up within 7 days, a second email is sent letting the student know his or her package is scheduled for return. The student then has 7 days before that package is returned. Student Mail Services cannot hold packages any longer than prescribed due to space constraints. Perishable and oversized bulk packages can be held for no more than 7 days.

 

Please note that the U.S. Postal Service Delivery Confirmation feature only provides confirmation for packages delivered to a particular Zip Code. It does not confirm receipt at Lerner Hall.

Incorrectly Addressed Mail

Incorrectly addressed and unsolicited mass mailings are returned to sender. Other incorrectly addressed mail (non-mass mailing) is a low priority for processing. This mail can take up to several days to reach the proper Lerner box.