Letterbox & Deliveries

Where to find the mailbox key: Upon arrival, you will usually find the letterbox key inside your apartment. While it often hangs on a key hook near the entrance, its exact location can depend on the habits of previous residents-it is quite common to find it tucked away in a kitchen drawer or a similar storage spot. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Key Systems: The letterboxes are located either outside the house or within the staircase area. Please note: 

 

 

 Separate Key: In many cases, you will have a specific, smaller key for the mailbox. 

 

 

 Master Key: In some properties, your main apartment key is designed to unlock your letterbox as well. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 The Swiss "Milchfach":  A unique feature of Swiss letterboxes is the "Milchfach" (milk compartment). This is the larger, unlocked compartment typically located above or below the locked letter slot. It is intended for newspapers and small-to-medium parcels that do not require a signature. Even if your mailbox is locked, the mail carrier can leave items for you here. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Missed Deliveries: If you are expecting a large parcel and are not at home, the delivery service will leave a notification card (paper slip) in your letterbox. This card provides information on where and when you can pick up your delivery—usually at the nearest post office or a designated pickup point. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Mailbox Labeling: Professional mailbox labeling by Homestay AG Switzerland may take a few days or weeks to complete across all city locations. In the meantime, mailboxes may be temporarily marked with a small Post-it note. Please ensure the use of easily removable adhesive to allow for a residue-free replacement with the official nameplates. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Community Spirit & Weather Protection: Occasionally, mail carriers may leave larger parcels in front of the main building entrance. In Switzerland, it is a common and much-appreciated gesture among neighbors to move such parcels into the staircase or hallway. This protects the deliveries from rain and reduces the risk of theft. If you see a neighbor's package left outside, feel free to bring it inside to a safe spot.