PackageHub™

PackageHub™ Business Centers

Yes. Because they are two separate business entities, the fees for RSA and PBC are separate. Membership fees for PBC are $75 per month. Our goal is to consolidate billing so that your RSA and PBC payments are combined and paid on the same date. Once we finalize the legal documentation for the franchise, we will update this FAQ with the specifics.

RS Basic Members are welcome to apply to be a PBC. Once you are approved, and at the time or before you sign the PBC Membership agreement, you will be required to sign up as an RSA Premium (paid) member at $24.95/month, or $249.00 annually. But you don’t have to wait. There are so many benefits to becoming an RSA Premium Member—including the RS Postal Rates—and discounts with dozens of Premium Suppliers. There is no reason not to become a Premium Member now. Upgrade from Basic to Premium today.

For consistency, and to set customer expectations, we need to be able to advertise nationally that all PBC locations offer a standard set of core services. Core services include: 

• Mailbox rentals/package receiving
• Professional packing
• Domestic and international shipping
• Basic office services (print, copy, scan, fax)

If you don’t offer all these services today, you can still apply. Once accepted into the PBC program, you will be required to offer all core services prior to advertising or promoting your store as a PBC. 

We will advertise that all PBC locations offer private mailbox (PMB) rentals. To rent PMBs, you must register with the USPS as a CMRA—Commercial Mail Receiving Agency. How you choose to manage the mail is up to you. It could be as extensive as installing physical mailboxes with 24-hour access, or as simple as storing the customer’s mail behind the counter. Providing virtual/digital mailbox service is also acceptable as a private mailbox solution. 

You are required to accept packages on behalf of mailbox customers. It is up to you if you want to charge a fee for package receiving for mailbox customers. Limits of number and size of packages is also at your discretion. Many stores also offer one-time package receiving to non-mailbox customers for a fee. 

The PBC Knowledge Exam is a way that experienced operators can skip taking certification training and prove their industry knowledge. More details will be available during the membership application process.

At least one person who actively manages the day-to-day operation of the store will need to have been certified or pass the exam in the core areas. As an owner/manager, it is your responsibility to ensure that all employees are trained in all key areas of their job role.

Key areas of knowledge include, a) Mailbox management (CMRA), b) Professional packing, c) Domestic shipping, and d) International shipping.

The goal of standards for store aesthetics are key to our overall positive customer experience. PBC stores should maintain a clean, organized, professional and secure store environment.

Examples of these standards include:

• Windows, counters, floors and display shelves should be clean and free of dirt/dust, fresh, and have proper lighting. Stores should be a non-smoking environment. 
• Neat and uncluttered arrangement of packing materials and merchandise. Clear pathways throughout retail areas.
• Secure storage areas for inbound and outbound customer packages. 
• Store branded and carrier signage should be functional, neatly placed, and up to date. Informational signs should be computer printed and neatly displayed. 

Yes. While many store employees dress professionally, research has shown that a consistent look identifying employees helps increase the professionalism of your store. What you decide to use as a uniform is up to you. For some, it may be a button down long-sleeve shirt and dress slacks. For others, a polo or t-shirt with your logo, a name badge, and khaki shorts might be the appropriate choice for your climate or casual nature of your neighborhood. 

Our goal is to have a source in place so that you can choose from a menu of PBC branded apparel and promotional items. 

If your store hours don’t meet the minimum requirements (Mon-Fri 9:00a – 6:00p, and open at least 4 hours on Sat), you can still complete the application process. Once approved as a PBC, we will require you to comply with the minimum store hours prior to advertising or promoting your store as a PBC. 

PackageHub Business Centers is a stand-alone business entity: PBC, LLC. The agreement you sign will be with PBC, LLC. and is separate from your RSA membership. 

To meet federal and state regulations, the PBC network is a franchise. But PBC is not a typical franchise. We have structured the PBC franchise in a way that requires a) No upfront franchise fees, b) No percentage of revenue royalties, c) No long-term contracts (30-day out), d) No store brand/name change, and e) No requirements to do any kind of costly remodel your store.