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Frequently Asked Questions

Florence Online Support aims to answer your questions and help you locate the information you are looking for, all online.  Use the dropdown menu below to choose a category of Frequently Asked Questions.

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WHO IS FLORENCE MANUFACTURING?
Florence Manufacturing is the nation's leading manufacturer of superior quality mailboxes and accessories for centralized distribution and collection of mail and packages. We are proud to trace our heritage of founding and acquired companies to the late 1800s. For more than a century, the Florence line of postal specialties has maintained industry leadership by offering consistently superior product quality and rapid, reliable customer service. Florence Manufacturing continues to be an important name in postal specialties, approved by the United States Postal Service with its award as the sole supplier of the USPS Outdoor Delivery Equipment.
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WHY PURCHASE POSTAL SPECIALTIES FROM FLORENCE MANUFACTURING?
When you purchase products from Florence Manufacturing, you can be assured that they meet the latest ISO standards as we are dedicated to producing a quality product which will stand the test of time. We have worked hard to establish relationships with authorized dealers across the country to provide you with local, on-site support as well as providing a customer service team committed to your satisfaction. And, we strive to be your one stop resource - not only in creating a safe, cohesive mail delivery center, but by making available the specifications, postal regulations and other technical documents you need to easily and effectively complete your project.
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WHAT ARE FLORENCE MANUFACTURING'S FACILITIES LIKE?
Florence Manufacturing is a vertically integrated plant featuring on-site fabrication, state-of-the-art powder coating and robotic welding. With over 190,000 square feet, this cutting edge facility also boasts a recycling program second to none with our powder reclamation program as well as extensive corrugate, steel and aluminum recycling programs. Plus, with an industry unique contained painting area, cross-contamination is significantly reduced and energy use leakage is minimized.
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WHO IS GIBRALTAR INDUSTRIES?
In 2007, the Florence Corporation was acquired by Gibraltar Industries. GIBRALTAR is a leading manufacturer, processor, and distributor of products for the building, industrial, and vehicular markets. The company serves customers in a variety of industries in all 50 states and throughout the world. It operates 84 facilities in 27 states, Canada, England, and Germany. Gibraltar's common stock (NASDAQ:ROCK) is a component of the S&P SmallCap 600 and the Russell 2000® Index.
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WHAT IS ISO 9001:2008?
ISO 9001:2008 is an internationally recognized Quality Management Standard that requires a company to identify, define, document, implement, monitor and measure, and continually improve the effectiveness of its processes for the purposes of enhancing Customer Satisfaction. Companies must undergo third-party audits by accredited certification boards in order to become and maintain ISO 9001:2008 certified. Florence Manufacturing's commitment to quality craftsmanship continues to be shown through not only being the FIRST manufacturer in our industry to be ISO 9001:2008 certified, but that we continually surpass all required audits as well. Selecting a manufacturer that voluntarily holds itself to these high standards ensures you will receive a quality product with dedicated customer service.
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WHAT IS ISO 14001:2004?
ISO 14001:2004 specifies requirements for an environmental management system to enable an organization to develop and implement a policy and objectives which take into account legal requirements and other requirements to which the organization subscribes, and information about significant environmental aspects. It applies to those environmental aspects that the organization identifies as those which it can control and those which it can influence. It does not itself state specific environmental performance criteria. The intention of ISO 14001:2004 is to provide a framework for a holistic, strategic approach to the organization's environmental policy, plans and actions. ISO 14001:2004 gives the generic requirements for an environmental management system. The underlying philosophy is that whatever the organization's activity, the requirements of an effective EMS are the same. This has the effect of establishing a common reference for communicating about environmental management issues between organizations and their customers, regulators, the public and other stakeholders.
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WHO IS AUTH ELECTRIC?
In 1990, Florence Manufacturing purchased Auth Electric and began doing business as Auth-Florence Manufacturing. This 100 year old company expanded our product line to include Auth-Chimes—a quality product which has since been seen on the popular Seinfeld, Rescue Me and Project Runway TV series.
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WHO IS AMERICAN DEVICE?
As a dynamic company, Florence Manufacturing significantly expanded its product offering with the acquisition of the American Device Postal Specialties line in July 1998. A perfect complement to Florence postal specialties, American Device products have been known for their strength, security and long lasting durability. Florence offers the 2600 high security vault-type horizontal mailbox, boasting a unique three-point locking system and an interlocking feature on the hinge-side of the door.
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WHO IS CUTLER MANUFACTURING CORPORATION?
Two years after acquiring American Device, Florence Manufacturing acquired Cutler Manufacturing Corporation - a venerable century old company that had manufactured postal products for the likes of the Empire State Building and the John Hancock Building.
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WHAT COMPANY NAMES MAY THE FLORENCE PRODUCTS BE LISTED UNDER IN ARCHITECTURAL SPECIFICATIONS?
Florence Manufacturing has been included in master specs for decades. Other names we may be listed under include: Auth, Auth-Florence, Auth-Electric, American Device, Cutler, Florence, Florence Manufacturing, Florence Corporation and Perma-Bilt.
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HOW DO I FIND PRODUCTS ONLINE?
Simply use our PRODUCTS navigation tab near the top of the web page. This allows you to search for Florence Manufacturing products based either by category or department, utilizing thumbnail product images. You can also use the Advanced Product Search navigation tab to find your specific product by item name or keyword.
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CAN I RECEIVE A FREE PRICE QUOTE?
Absolutely! Once you have selected a product, click the "Add to Cart" link under the Custom Pricing tab. You will need to sign in as a website member so that an Authorized Florence Dealer will have contact information to return a quote to you. You can also use our Project Pricing Request form to request more general pricing information about an upcoming project.
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WHAT IF I DO NOT HAVE AN E-MAIL ADDRESS?
An e-mail address is recommended, but not required to request a quote on the website. Alternatively, Florence Manufacturing can send your confirmation and tracking information via fax or U.S. Mail.
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WHY IS AN E-MAIL ADDRESS RECOMMENDED?
An e-mail address is used to communicate with you about your request and to ensure a unique online identity for you if you choose to register as a member. If you do not have an e-mail address but you do have web access, there are a number of free online e-mail account providers that will allow you to establish a secure e-mail account without charge and usually without requiring any other program participation. Take a moment to open a free online e-mail account with one of these providers and you will be ready to place a quote request online, or purchase Florence products online.
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WHAT'S THE ADVANTAGE OF STARTING A CUSTOMER ACCOUNT AT FLORENCEMAILBOXES.COM?
Registering for your Florence Manufacturing customer account takes only a moment and is absolutely free. The benefits of membership include easy check out (never enter your personal or billing information again!), online quote tracking, quote status and history, as well as exciting news and special updates periodically from Florence Manufacturing. Click here to register.
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WHAT DOES FLORENCE MANUFACTURING DO WITH MY MEMBER ACCOUNT INFORMATION?
Florence Manufacturing values your privacy and therefore will only utilize the provided contact information for opt-in newsletters and returning requested quote and order information. By creating a member account you ensure a unique online identity for you to return to the site and track your quotes, orders, and custom configurations. You can be assured that Florence Manufacturing will not share your information with third parties.
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CAN I ORDER FLORENCE PRODUCTS ON FLORENCEMAILBOXES.COM?
Rather than selling products directly and leaving you to fend for yourself when it comes time to install, Florence Manufacturing believes that customer service is of vital importance. That is why Florence is proud to have built relationships with the most extensive national dealer network in the industry. Authorized Florence Dealers are located from coast to coast and are ready to assist you from specification to final installation. By utilizing local expertise rather than buying direct from the factory, you are guaranteed personalized local service to meet your individual needs for each and every project – not some cookie cutter approach that may not work in your geographic area. Simply select your product from our Buy It Now product list, and a local Authorized Florence Dealer will be selected to complete your order. Visa and Mastercard is accepted. You may be contacted by your selected Dealer after purchase to verify your order is correct. All orders will ship from our factory in Manhattan, KS.
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DOES FLORENCE MANUFACTURING HANDLE INTERNATIONAL ORDERS?
Yes, we welcome international projects. Please contact Florence Customer Service with your request, or fill out a Project Pricing Request for your project.
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IS THERE AN EASY WAY TO DETERMINE WHAT MAILBOX SYSTEM I NEED ONLINE?
Yes, Florence Manufacturing's one-of-a-kind mailbox product/system configurator will help guide you step by step in creating a mail system to fit your individual needs. This unique system will also provide you with CAD drawings of your selection as well as access to quote your creation by an Authorized Florence Dealer.
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HOW DO I GET A FLORENCE PRODUCT CATALOG?
Florence Manufacturing's product literature can either be downloaded via our website, or sent via US Mail. Click here to download your selected collateral material or Click Here to submit a literature request to arrive via US Mail.
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SOME FLORENCE MANUFACTURING PRODUCTS ARE "READY-TO-SHIP" AND OTHERS ARE "READY-TO-ORDER." WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
Florence Manufacturing products labeled "Ready-To-Ship" are sent out shortly after your order is received thanks to our extensive in-stock inventory. "Ready-To-Order" products are fabricated as needed and may require additional lead time.
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WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PRODUCTS APPROVED BY THE US POSTAL SERVICE AND PRODUCTS FOR PRIVATE MAIL DISTRIBUTION?
Florence Manufacturing produces commercial and residential mailboxes for both USPS access and private mail distribution. USPS approved mail products are accessed directly by the Postal Service. They comply with postal security specifications and allow mail carrier access to all compartments through a master gate. Florence Manufacturing products for private mail distribution are not accessed directly by the Postal Service. When mail is received from the USPS and later distributed to individual mailboxes by another individual, mail receptacles for private use are sufficient. These products are ideal for private postal centers, government agencies, corporate mailrooms, educational institutions, dormitories, banks and military bases.
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WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SURFACE MOUNTING AND RECESSED MOUNTING FOR WALL-MOUNTED MAILBOX UNITS?
It's a matter of how the unit attaches to the wall. Surface mounted units are affixed to a wall or other flat surface with mounting hardware through the back panel of the mailbox unit. Recessed mounted units fit into an opening within a wall and are secured with mounting hardware through the back or side panels of the mailbox unit. Recessed mounted units include a fully integrated collar which fits over the rough opening for a finished, professional look.
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ONCE I PURCHASE A FLORENCE MAILBOX, HOW DO I INSTALL IT?
Do it yourself instructions for installation can be found shipped with each product or can be printed from the Downloads page of the website or the Downloads section for each specific product. Many Authorized Florence Dealers also handle mailbox unit installation themselves or can recommend a local contractor who does. Simply browse our Dealer Locator to find a dealer who can assist you.
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CAN I GET MY MAILBOXES ENGRAVED?
Yes, Florence Manufacturing utilizes the USPS Standard 'US BLOCK 1L' font for all engraving. This 3/4" high engraving may be created with or without black color fill and can contain up to six characters, depending upon door size. Custom engraving is also available upon request.
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ARE THERE OTHER ID OPTIONS FOR MY MAILBOXES?
Yes, Florence Manufacturing provides several different ID options for your replacement mailboxes. Simply select your option from engraving, black-fill engraving, clear vision window, metal placards, engraved ID tags or number slots to customize your mailbox system.
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HOW DO I GET A REPLACEMENT KEY FOR A FLORENCE PRODUCT?
The loss of a mailbox key can be a frustrating experience. For emergency key situations, contact a local locksmith or hardware store. If neither of those options are able to assist you, Florence Manufacturing maintains an inventory of key blanks for all Florence mailboxes as well as cut keys for select products. (Make sure to have the manufacturer and number from the key handy for reference sake.) Orders for replacement keys may be placed through a local locksmith or your local Authorized Florence Dealer. There are instances in which security constraints prevent the cutting of new mailbox keys, in which case we offer replacement locks available through an Authorized Florence Dealer. Use our Lock/Key Lookup Tool to find your replacement. Some may be ordered immediately from an AUthorized Florence Dealer.
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WHAT DOES THE WARRANTY COVER?
Florence Manufacturing provides a five (5) year Warranty on its products from the date of purchase from an Authorized Florence Dealer. This Warranty covers defects in material and workmanship of any manufactured item and Florence will, at its option, repair or replace a defective item or refund the price paid for the defective item. All claims must be made promptly in writing and accompanied by a copy of the original invoice. This Warranty does not apply if the product has been damaged by improper installation, neglect, accident, vandalism, misuse, or exposure to extremes of heat, humidity, corrosive environments or other Acts of Nature. Florence is not responsible for costs associated with removal, installation, refinishing or disposal. Damage, loss of contents or any unauthorized removal of contents from Florence products is not covered under this Warranty. Florence will endeavor to supply original replacement parts; however, replacement parts may differ from original parts. Replacement parts, including upgrades, are warranted for the remainder of the original product Warranty. Florence makes no other warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied. No dealer, employee, agent, nor any third party, may create or assume any other liability, obligation, or responsibility on behalf of Florence. This Limited Warranty provides specific legal rights which may vary from state to state. This Warranty is not a warranty of future performance or a statement of the useful life of any Florence product, but only a warranty to repair, replace, or refund.
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HOW DO YOU CLEAN A FLORENCE PRODUCT?
The surface of all Florence Manufacturing clear aluminum or powder coated products may be cleaned of dirt or grime with a soft cloth dampened with any mild detergent or properly diluted biodegradable, water-based cleaner, such as "Simple Green™". Wipe from top to bottom to avoid run-down. Avoid use of abrasives, which might damage the product surface. Rinse with plain water and dry. Avoid cleaning during extreme temperature conditions. To varying extents, depending upon the color, it may be possible to remove some spray-paint or marker-applied graffiti from powder coated surfaces by using a stronger cleaner such as "Krud Kutter™" or a mild petroleum-based solvent, such as mineral spirits. Test-clean a small area first, a few seconds at a time. Do not allow chemical to remain on surface for an indefinite period, as this may damage the surface of the product. Remove any residue left with a mild cleaner, followed by water rinse as noted above.
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WHAT IS THE STANDARD 4B+ REVISION?
The USPS issued the STD-4B+ effective March 2005. This regulation requires improved Arrow lock compartment security on all horizontal and vertical wall-mounted mailboxes. In many cases, the STD-4B+ product designs include hardened Arrow lock bracketry and master gate doors as well as the removal of an outgoing mail slot.
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HOW DO YOU "REMOVE" AN OUTGOING MAIL SLOT?
Florence Manufacturing has a USPS approved mail slot plug to help you comply with this regulation. Installation takes just a few moments, and ensures no mail can get through the slot.
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CAN YOU IMPROVE AN ARROW LOCK ON AN EXISTING MAILBOX?
Yes, Florence Manufacturing has developed a USPS Approved security upgrade kit for those owners who simply want to improve the security of existing mailboxes rather than replacing them altogether. Click here for Vertical Upgrade Kit or Horizontal Upgrade Kit.
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WHAT IS THE STANDARD 4C REVISION?
The USPS issued the STD-4C effective October 2006. This mandatory regulation applies to all wall-mounted centralized mail receptacles and replaces the STD-4B+ regulation for receptacles/apartment/house mail. The STD-4C specification creates a new form factor and increases the minimum size requirement (12"W x 15"D x 3"H); completely eliminating the vertical from factor (5"W x 6"D x 15"H). STD-4C also requires one parcel locker per ten tenant compartments. Security features and lock design requirements are more stringent, which includes mandatory security testing done by the USPS.
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HOW DID THE USPS DECIDE ON THESE STANDARDS?
Before setting the 4C standards, the USPS studied factors that affect the performance of new mailboxes such as the volume and size of mail Americans currently receive, common methods of mailbox vandalism and the efficiency of mail delivery, making educated predictions for what the future of mail holds. Once this information was obtained, the Postal Service organized the Apartment Consensus Committee to discuss its findings. The committee was comprised of various members (including Florence Manufacturing) who represented mailbox manufacturers, mailbox resellers and servicers, property owners and managers and the USPS. The committee met for over one year to discuss and ultimately agree upon the requirements that now make up the mandatory STD-4C regulation.
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HOW FREQUENTLY DO MAILBOX STANDARDS CHANGE?
The last revision to mailbox standards took place in 1975, meaning that the Postal Service standards set 30 years ago have successfully guided and protected mail delivery up to today, despite the drastic growth in mail volume since that time. Since implementing a universal change in mailbox standards is no easy task, the Postal Service's objective is to ensure that the mailbox standards they set will effectively protect and manage the mail trends of the future.
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HOW DO I KNOW WHICH MAILBOX PRODUCTS MEET THESE REQUIREMENTS?
Florence Manufacturing has included a USPS Approved Logo on each of its products which successfully meet these requirements. We are proud to offer you the most extensive USPS approved product lines available in the industry today. Our versatile™ 4C mailbox suites offer flexibility without the fuss. Mix 'n match 4C modules to configure the perfect mailbox system to fit your project needs. Be sure to check with your local postal authority before undergoing any changes to your buildings mail system.
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WHAT IS CENTRALIZED MAIL DELIVERY?
Centralized mail delivery provides delivery and collection services to a number of residences from a centrally located installation—whether in a single-family subdivision or multifamily complex. Business customers also receive delivery services from a convenient central location. The ability for the USPS to make multiple deliveries per stop results in faster service for customers due to less time per delivery. And fewer stops also use less fuel and produce lower carbon emissions; all of which contribute to lower costs and good environmental stewardship.
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WHAT MAILBOX EQUIPMENT IS USED FOR CENTRALIZED MAIL DELIVERY?
Centralized mail delivery equipment can be in the form of any "clustered" style of mailboxes including the free-standing, pedestal-mounted cluster box unit (CBU), or other STD-4C compliant cluster mailboxes mounted in a wall, kiosk, or outdoor shelter. All centralized mail delivery equipment being serviced by the USPS must be USPS Approved. Manufacturers seeking approval must submit the mailbox product to the USPS for rigorous testing and approval prior to offering it in the marketplace.
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HOW DO I KNOW IF I NEED CENTRALIZED MAIL DELIVERY EQUIPMENT?
The U.S. Postal Service will specify the mail delivery plan in new residential and commercial developments, so it is important to check with local Postal Authorities early in your project.
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