Full Form of ZIP:
Zone Improvement Plan
ZIP Full Form is Zone Improvement Plan. ZIP is a postal program that helps to identify each postal zone by a unique number called ZIP Code allotted to it. Simply and typically, it is a mail coding system used by the USPS (United States Postal Services). This program was initiated back in 1963. ZIP ensures that mails can travel one postal zone to the other without any hassle or difficulty. That’s why ZIP code is used.
Mailers write the ZIP code in the postal address and quick transfer of the mail is done accordingly. The system of ZIP replaced PDZS (Postal Delivery Zone System) because it is more efficient and time-friendly. ZIP emphasizes on the improved efficiency and accuracy of mail sorting and its delivery. Unique, post-office box only, military, and standard are the four variants of ZIP.
A ZIP code is a combination of five decimal numerical digits. The first digit represents a certain geographical group of United States, the second and third digits are used to collectively represent a specific region within that group, and the fourth and fifth digits denote a specific area of delivery address within that region. However, a ZIP+4 code is an extended version. Along with the commonly used combination of five digits, there is a group of 4 more digits. This new group of digits is combined alongside the earlier group with the use of a hyphen. ZIP+4 indicates a more specific mail delivery location.