How to Get a Virtual Business Address – Types and Benefits

In recent years, remote working has become the norm. A cost-effective approach for individual professionals and companies alike, remote and hybrid models are undoubtedly the future of work. While traditional office spaces might be out, nothing can replace the need for workspaces entirely. Whether it’s access to shared office facilities or the need for a registered business address, no company can operate completely remotely.

For remote-first entities, virtual office solutions are a flexible alternative to standard leases, with a virtual business address being one of the most sought-after features of such arrangements. Below, we’ll take a closer look at what these are, the benefits of them, and how to get a virtual business address.

What is a Virtual Business Address?

Virtual office membership and business address services are becoming increasingly popular with those who aren’t tied to a traditional office location. Essentially, a virtual business address provides you with a real address that you can use for business correspondence, without having to secure a lease on a conventional one.

In most cases, virtual business addresses are offered by coworking spaces. These locations also offer a range of shared workspace facilities, such as access to dedicated desks, use of meeting rooms and conferencing suites, and other useful amenities. Ideal if you’re looking to reap the benefits of coworking.

However, the main advantage of a virtual business address is that you have an official address to use for commercial purposes. You can use one to register your company, access mail forwarding and receiving services, and more.

Types of Virtual Business Address Providers

Looking for a professional business address? There are several main types of business address providers to consider. Below, we’ll take a look at some of the most common.

Virtual Office Membership

One of the most convenient ways to access a virtual business address is by using a virtual office membership. Virtual office providers offer a range of handy solutions, with a genuine business address in an enviable location being just one. Other useful services include mail forwarding and receiving, virtual reception services, and the use of shared meeting rooms, dedicated desks, and other useful coworking amenities.

If you’re in the market for a virtual office membership, why not explore the benefits of what Mindspace has to offer? Mindspace’s virtual office membership services include a professional business address, mail handling services, discounted rates on coworking day passes, the use of daily offices, and access to meeting rooms. What’s more, with flexible terms and affordable rates, you can enjoy these essential amenities at a fraction of the cost of traditional office leases.

Mailbox and Shipping Companies

Another option are mailbox and shipping companies. Alongside a virtual business address, you benefit from mail handling and shipping solutions. Ideal for those who heavily depend on courier services, these companies are generally cost-effective and reliable, working with some of the most established carriers in the business.

Online-Only Virtual Address Services

One of the more streamlined options out there is online-only virtual address services. Here, you’ll get a registered business address you can use for commercial use, but little else. In some cases, you might also be offered other online-only solutions, such as virtual receptionist and call handling services.

Premium Business Centers

Business centers are another worthwhile consideration if you’re looking to secure a virtual business address. While these locations do usually offer access to desks and office amenities, this is generally offered on an on-demand basis. Should the need arise, you can use office space to facilitate work or utilize meeting rooms when connecting with clients. Depending on the type of access you require, premium business centers can prove a relatively expensive way to obtain a virtual business address.

Key Features and Services of a Virtual Address

Virtual address providers offer a wealth of features that can help a business operate and grow. Below are a few of the most important features to look out for when choosing one.

Mail Receiving and Forwarding

If you’re operating remotely, a mail forwarding service is essential. Once you’ve registered your company and secured a legitimate business address, all correspondence will be routed to you, saving you from having to collect mail in person. Some providers will forward your mail by post. Others will scan the contents of received letters and documents and send you a copy of the contents via email.

Package Acceptance

For busy professionals, waiting around to sign for an important package simply isn’t an option. With a virtual address provider, someone else is on hand to receive those incoming parcels, meaning you don’t have to worry about making changes to your schedule. You can collect packages in person if you live locally to a provider, or choose to have parcels forwarded to your home address.

Use of Address for Business Registration

Using a credible business address brings a big boost to your credibility. With a virtual address, you’re ready to register your company and have something to place on your website, business cards, and marketing collateral.

Meeting Room Access (On-Demand)

Many virtual address providers offer a full suite of coworking facilities. Even if you work remotely, you’ll eventually need to meet with clients or connect with other professionals in a formal setting. On-demand meeting room access provides you with a convenient solution, with venues offering access to the latest audiovisual technology and amenities.

Benefits of Using a Virtual Address with Coworking Spaces

Still not sold on the idea of a virtual address? Read on for some of the biggest reasons to consider switching to a coworking space and using a virtual address.

Professional Image and Credibility

If you want to build a credible brand and establish trust with customers, you’ll need a legitimate business address. Using a virtual address brings an essential level of professionalism to your operation, especially if you’ve chosen an address closely tied to your particular industry sector.

Privacy and Security for Business Owners

Operating out of your own home might be convenient, but there a lot of privacy and security implications to consider. Using a virtual address means your home address remains private. Ideal if you don’t want to be inundated with unsolicited mailers and marketing material.

Cost-Effective Alternative to Physical Office Space

Traditional office space is expensive. What’s more, inflexible leases make it difficult to scale or move on when the need arises. Virtual business addresses are incredibly cost-effective compared to physical office space, making them an obvious pick for freelance professionals or smaller companies worried about the bottom line.

Choosing the Right Virtual Address Provider

Remote business solutions like virtual addresses offer many advantages. However, no two providers are the same. Below are a few things to bear in mind when choosing one to ensure you get all the features and benefits you’re looking for.

Features to Look for in a Virtual Office Membership

Alongside a registered business address, a good virtual office membership should include virtual receptionist services or call handling. Additionally, you’ll want access to post handling and mail forwarding services. Other common features include access to workspaces, including dedicated desks and private offices. Another staple of virtual offices includes meeting room and event space hire that you can utilize on an ad hoc basis.

Pricing Models: Subscription Plans and Hidden Costs

Virtual business addresses can be a cost-effective alternative to conventional office leases, but you need to be vigilant when searching for a provider to reap the biggest savings. Rolling monthly subscriptions are both affordable and flexible, although annual plans can bring significant discounts.

As well as choosing the right pricing model for you, you’ll also need to bear in mind hidden costs. Despite budget-friendly monthly subscriptions, you may find yourself paying over the odds for one-time setup fees. Furthermore, some additional services may only be included if you part with a small premium. If you require occasional access to meeting rooms and other coworking facilities, make sure the cost of these amenities is manageable or included in the price of your subscription.

Legal Considerations When Using a Virtual Business Address

There are many legal aspects to consider when choosing a virtual business address. For starters, using a virtual office has significant tax implications. The jurisdiction your virtual office address is based affects your tax residency status, meaning you could be responsible for paying local business taxes.

Additionally, you’ll need to consider privacy and data protection laws. It’s vital that any virtual office provider you choose adheres to local data protection laws. If handling sensitive material from your clients, any virtual office provider needs to be able to guarantee robust security measures are upheld.

Furthermore, make sure you study your contract with virtual business address providers carefully. Some agreements limit how you can actually use your address, which can hamper business operations. It’s also worth taking a closer look at termination clauses to ensure you’re not left without a business address should your provider cease operations.

Access Premium Virtual Office Solutions Today with Mindspace

If you’re looking to make the right impression with clients and access essential workplace amenities, a virtual office membership is a must. Ideal if you’re looking to cement your reputation as a credible business, a virtual office membership provides you with a legitimate business address in a prime location, along with must-have services like mail handling and on-demand access to facilities like daily offices and meeting rooms.

At Mindspace, you’ll find first-rate virtual office solutions at affordable prices. Take your pick from a huge selection of impressive addresses, with a range of membership options and flexible terms providing you with a cost-effective alternative to a traditional office lease. Alternatively, why not get in touch today to discuss our coworking spaces in more detail?