The United States Postal Service is just as reliable in Orlando (and near the Full Sail campus) as anywhere else. The great thing about living in an apartment complex—whether it's designated student-living or not—is that the apartment's leasing office can act as a doorman to field packages even when you aren't home. This helps to avoid packages sitting outside your apartment all day (and thus the possibility of it being stolen before you arrive home).
If for some reason the leasing office is closed or you've ordered something via FedEx, the driver may attempt to deliver the package straight to your door. If you aren't home, the package may be taken back to the nearest post office. The good thing, however, is that a notice will be left on your door or in your mailbox letting you know which post office you should visit to pick up the package.
Depending on the size of the package and the apartment mailboxes, your mailman may make use of nearby lock boxes, which are most often in the same area as your original mailbox. If that's the case, a key will be left in your mailbox with a corresponding box number. Once you've used the key to open the box and find your package, just leave it in the lock for the mailman to collect on his next round.
The USPS does take certain holidays throughout the year, so expect delays if you're ordering packages during those particular times. Some of the biggest upcoming holidays are Fourth of July and Labor Day, which fall on a Thursday and a Monday respectively. To see the rest of the days for the year, click here.
Also, if you've recently moved to an apartment near Full Sail, don't forget to fill out a change of address form with the U.S. Post Office. Ideally, it should be done two weeks prior to your move, but not sooner than three months before you move to your new address. It's a really easy way to keep from losing packages and other mail that's inadvertently being sent to your previous address. This can be accomplished one of three ways: online, by mail, or by visiting your local Post Office. No matter which way you choose to file, you'll receive a confirmation.
It's important to note that the post office won't forward your mail forever. On your own, you should let all relevant people and businesses know that you're moving to a new address. Obviously let your friends and family know, but don't forget places like the bank, your credit card companies and any insurance providers. For a complete list of important entities visit our mail forwarding FAQ page.