How to Make the Most of Your Virtual Mail Service

A virtual mail service is just what the name implies – A service for receiving mail on your behalf. That’s the simple version, but there a wide range of services attached to that which you can explore and benefit from, depending on the service provider you choose. Everything from online integrations to location flexibility and even the shredding of sensitive documents can be gotten.

If you’ve signed up for a virtual mail service or you’re planning to, here are a few tips that’ll help you maximize the benefits, whether you’re using it personally or for your business:

1. Use the Online Integrations

Sophisticated providers allow you to get your mail scanned and sent to you, but you can save yourself the hassle of checking your email constantly simply by connecting your Evernote account with the service so you can receive, store and organize your scanned mails much more efficiently. By using this feature, you’ll also be able to access your mail from any location or device, even if you’re not with your primary device. That will give you further freedom and ensure that you can access crucial information without hassle.

2. Mind the Address

Most virtual mail service providers offer just one city in which you can be assigned an address for mail collection, but some of the more premium ones have multiple options, in terms of the cities, the specific locations and even suite numbers. Choose addresses and suite numbers that will give you the prestige you want to convey to your clients, partners, investors or anyone whom you’ll be giving the address to. It might cost a bit more, but the benefit of being higher in their estimation will definitely pay off.

3. Study the Pricing Structure

Often, the pricing structure for virtual mail services may be a bit confusing, especially if the provider is including a variety of services. The plan which might appear to be the cheapest at first can turn out to be much more expensive when you have to pay for extra mail, scans or other add-on services. Take the time to evaluate your needs and make a projection as to how much mail you’ll be getting and what you’ll need done with it, then leave some leeway for any extra needs that might come up. By choosing a plan that fits that projection, you’ll save yourself the hassle and cost of paying unit prices.

4. Install the App

Not all providers have an app (you should sign up with one that does), but for those that do, you’ll usually be able to track your mail in real time and get instantaneous information about exactly what’s in your “mailbox”. You can use that to your advantage to stay on top of your communications and give prompt instructions in case there’s anything you need done, such as forwarding the mail, keeping a parcel or shredding any documents. The key thing is to check regularly to be sure you’re not missing any crucial, time-sensitive information.