[rescue] FedEx Ground

Bill Bradford mrbill at mrbill.net
Thu Aug 8 20:07:21 CDT 2002


On Thu, Aug 08, 2002 at 08:03:00PM -0400, Joshua D Boyd wrote:
> Sometimes ZIP+4 will also resolve to a specific building, or so I was
> led to believe.

Why are ZIP+4 Codes used?

In 1983, the Postal Service began using an expanded ZIP Code called 
"ZIP+4." A ZIP+4 Code consists of the original 5-digit ZIP Code plus a 
4-digit add-on code. The 4-digit add-on number identifies a geographic segment 
within the 5-digit delivery area, such as a city block, office building, 
individual high-volume receiver of mail, or any other unit that would aid 
efficient mail sorting and delivery.

Use of the 4-digit add-on is not mandatory, but it helps the Postal Service 
direct mail more efficiently and accurately because it reduces handling and 
significantly decreases the potential for human error and possibility of 
misdelivery. It also will lead to better control over USPS costs and, in 
turn, postage rate stability.

ZIP+4 is intended for use primarily by business mailers who prepare their mail 
with typewritten, machine-printed, or computerized addressing formats that 
can be read by the Postal Service's automated scanners during processing. 
Mailers who qualify receive a rate discount on First-Class, non-presorted, 
ZIP+4 mailings of at least 250 pieces and on presorted ZIP+4 mailings of at 
least 500 pieces. There are also ZIP+4 discounts for bulk business mail.

(http://www.usps.com/zip4/zipfaq.htm)

(I was wrong, they're *not* unique to a house..)

Bill

-- 
bill bradford
mrbill at mrbill.net
austin, texas



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