Zip codes are used in the US to ensure packages are delivered to the correct destination quickly. Each code represents a specific area, with the first digit indicating a broad regional area. Some addresses have unique postcodes, and nine-digit codes can be used to narrow down a location even further.
In the United States, zip codes are a type of postal code. Individuals sending letters or packages using the United States Postal Services (USPS) are required to write the code as part of the address. This five-digit code helps ensure packages arrive at their intended destination faster. In fact, the acronym zip, which stands for Zone Improvement Plan, suggests speed and quickness.
By looking at the numbers in these codes, a mail sorter can determine where the package should go. Each digit in a zip code indicates specific areas or regions of the United States (USA). Some stand for broad regions, such as the East or West Coast, while others stand for specific states, cities, and countries.
The first digit of each code corresponds to a broad regional area. Typically, this is a group of neighboring states. For example, codes starting with zero represent New England states, including Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Connecticut. They also represent US territories, such as Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.
ZIP codes starting with the number nine, on the other hand, typically represent states along the West Coast. California, Oregon, and Washington all have codes starting with nine, for example. Alaska and Hawaii also have zip codes starting with nine.
The next two digits represent a specific sectional center facility. These USPS facilities are responsible for further sorting the mail. Many times they are found in large metropolitan areas.
The last two digits represent an even more specific area, usually a post office. This is within the region represented by the first digit. It is also typically near the sectional center facility.
Some addresses that handle a large volume of incoming mail may have their own postcodes, known as unique postcodes. For example, the White House has the ZIP code 20006. Other government buildings in the United States have also been assigned codes starting with 202 and 205, regardless of where they are located. Universities and other similar establishments may also have unique postcodes.
While not mandatory, sometimes a package is addressed using nine-digit codes. This type of code is sometimes referred to as a ZIP+4 code. These codes are written with the first five digits, followed by a dash, followed by the additional four digits. These last four numbers narrow a location even further and many times represent a specific block or street.
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