How do I find a shipping or mailbox store for sale?

Shipping and mailbox stores go by many names: pack and ship, postal store, mail centre, parcel counter. That makes them easy to miss in a search. Some are branded franchise locations, some are independents, and some are a counter inside another business. Each turns up in a different place, so a good search uses several routes at once and keeps a short list of what you want before the first call.

Branded resales go through the franchisor

If you want a branded location, start with the franchisor. Many brands handle resales themselves, keep a list of approved buyers and know which owners are thinking of leaving. Ask what the approval steps are before you fall in love with a particular store. For the wider picture, see can you buy a UPS Store in Canada.

Independents and counters inside other shops

Independent counters tend to appear on listing sites under retail, business services or print and copy. Search with the words owners use: pack and ship, mailbox, parcel, postal. Also look for a postal or parcel counter that sits inside a pharmacy, print shop or convenience store. Ask whether the counter is sold alone or only with the host business, since that changes what you are buying.

People who hear first

Carrier representatives visit these counters regularly and may know an owner who wants out. Landlords of plazas and strip malls hear about lease conversations early. Neighbouring shop owners notice when a counter is quiet or when an owner is tired. Introduce yourself honestly as a possible buyer, say what you are looking for and leave your contact details. Keep each conversation courteous and confidential.

Screen before you go deep

• Ask which carriers the store offers and who holds each account.
• Ask how revenue splits between shipping, supplies, mailbox rentals and other counter services.
• Ask how many years remain on the lease and whether the landlord will consent to a new tenant.
• Ask whether the brand, if any, must approve you as the buyer.