ZIP Code

ZIP Code is a system of postal codes used by the United States Postal Service (USPS) since 1963. The term ZIP is an acronym for Zone Improvement Plan, which was chosen to suggest that the mail travels more efficiently and quickly when senders use the code in the postal address.

History

The basic format of a ZIP Code was first introduced in 1963. The USPS began using the current ZIP Code system in 1983. This system, known as ZIP+4, adds a hyphen and four additional digits for more precise delivery.

Format

The format of a ZIP Code is five digits. The first three digits represent the Sectional Center Facility (SCF), a network of highly automated sorting facilities that are currently used by the USPS. The fourth and fifth digits represent the area of the city or town. For example, a ZIP Code of 90210 would indicate that the mail is to be sent to the Beverly Hills section of Los Angeles.

In the ZIP+4 system, the additional four digits represent a specific delivery route, such as a specific street or a group of apartments.

Usage

ZIP Codes are used by the USPS to help route mail more efficiently. They are also used by various organizations for statistical analysis, direct mail marketing, internet routing, and credit card security checks.

See also

• Postal codes in the United States
• List of ZIP Code prefixes
• ZIP Code Tabulation Area

References

This U.S. post-related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.