FAQs
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.
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.
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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 has approximately 4,000 employees and operates 84 facilities in 27 states, Canada, China, England, Germany and Poland. Gibraltar’s common stock is a component of the S&P SmallCap 600 and the Russell 2000® Index.
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WHAT IS ISO 9001:2000?
ISO 9001: 2000 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 ISO 9001:2000 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 9001:2000 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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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 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, and Perma-Bilt.
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WHAT IS FLORENCE MANUFACTURING'S RELATIONSHIP WITH VICTOR STANLEY?
Florence Manufacturing is extremely proud to partner with another quality company, Victor Stanley, to offer outdoor site furnishings. This line of site furniture is the perfect compliment to any outdoor mail delivery center and is in stock at Florence Manufacturing for immediate delivery.
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HOW DO I FIND PRODUCTS ONLINE?
Simply use our PRODUCTguide 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. 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.
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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.
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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 quote request online.
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WHAT'S THE ADVANTAGE OF STARTING A CUSTOMER ACCOUNT AT AUTH-FLORENCE.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 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 information. By creating a member account you ensure a unique online identity for you to return to the site and track your quotes. 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 AUTH-FLORENCE.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 and add to your online cart to receive a quote from an Authorized Dealer in your area.
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DOES FLORENCE MANUFACTURING HANDLE INTERNATIONAL ORDERS?
Yes, we welcome international projects.
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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 BUY 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 enter your zip code in the Contact Us section to locate 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 5/8” 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.
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WHAT DOES THE WARRANTY COVER?
Florence Manufacturing Company provides a five-year warranty from the date of shipment covering defects in material and workmanship of all equipment. This warranty guarantees factory replacement and/or repair of all defective items. This warranty does not cover replacement of batteries or other consumable items, or damage due to improper installations, mishandling, misuse or acts of nature. We make no other warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied.
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HOW DO YOU CLEAN A FLORENCE PRODUCT?
The surface of all Florence products may be cleaned with any mild detergent or properly diluted biodegradable water-based cleaner (such as Simple Green™) and a soft cloth. The use of petroleum-based solvents, ammonia, harsh abrasive cleaners, or scrubbing sponges is not recommended, as in some cases it may damage the product. Cleaning with a damp soft cloth is appropriate. Touch-up paint may be available from an Authorized Florence Dealer for those products which utilize powder coating.
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WHAT IS THE STANDARD 4B+ REVISION?
The USPS issued the STD-4B+ effective March 2005. This new 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.
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WHAT IS THE NEW STANDARD 4C REVISION?
The USPS issued the STD-4C effective October 2006. This new 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 will 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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