Post box lock opening - tips and information

Post box locks come in many shapes and sizes. The first part of this blog post will be on the ways of opening your post box lock if you have lost your keys or moved into a new property and haven't been given keys. Please note these are general directions intended for homeowners and tenants with permission only and are not to be used for vandilising or gaining access to a post box that is not yours.


1. The barrel will always turn slightly when pressure is applied in the correct direction required for the key to open the lock. This means if you try twist the barrel slightly clockwise, or anti clockwise and one of the ways has more give, that's the way the key would turn. It's always best to figure out which way it will turn before attempting to pick any lock otherwise it will all be a waste of time. The key will normally turn away from the edge of the post box.
2. Use a pick set. If you have familiarity with locks, using a professional pick set is the best way to open post box locks without damaging them. You can also lock them back up afterwards in the case where you just need to check your mail as soon as possible but don't want to leave your post box unsecured.
3. For the lower end Post box locks with less security, try using a small flat head screwdriver, most likely from a Glasses repair kit as any other screwdrivers simply won't fit. A small thin blade may work as well, just jiggle it inside the lock gently feeling the wafers/ levers/ pins jumping and it may just pop open. When jiggling either the lockpick tools or the small blade, always place a small amount of pressure in the direction the keyway moves slightly.
4 . Call a professional locksmith. We know it may seem overkill, but that's what we are there for. Most locksmiths won't charge very much to open a post box lock and in 95% of cases will do so without damaging the lock. Being locksmiths should they need to o any damage, or in the event you have lost your keys, they will have replacement locks in stock to change on the spot.

Not only are there many types of post box locks, they also come in many shapes and many sizes. This means if you are planning on undertaking changing the lock yourself, it's best to try and find an exact replacement. This can often be tricky as there are a few measurements that need to be taken to ensure the correct lock is purchased. These will include the following at least -
1. Width of lock
2. Width of barrel
3. Length of lock
4. Shape of lock (Square, round, oval)
5. Length of protruding Nut
6. Degree of turn (90/180/360)
7. Brand of lock (Rarely possible)

Once as many of these have been determined as possible, you can locate your postbox lock via a simple google search for "post box locks" locating an online seller or nearby store and checking the measurements against your own.

Depending on how much time you're willing to spend and effort locating the lock, this may not be worth it for you, below we provide a short list of locksmith prices for opening post box locks in both emergency and non emergency situations.
Mobile Locksmith labour to open a post box lock £45 - £65 (Depending on time of day and location of job)
Mobile locksmith Post box lock prices £15 - £40 (depending on size & level of security)

As you can see for an hour of a professionals time you can have an undamaged post box, new post box lock and new keys for your lock for a great price. This saves the possible hours of time spent opening, possible repairs and sourcing the new post box lock.
If you're just after opening it asap then try the above tips, careful not to damage the lock in the process as this may make it harder for the locksmith and he may charge a bit more.
We're happy to help and give advice on any post box lock questions you may have contact us here