Do ZIP +4 codes truly help mail move faster?

[Yunaleska]

This is just total random curiosity... but I figure it would be interesting to know.

The post office says using a ZIP +4 code (the 4 digits after the 5 digit zip code) causes mail to be delivered faster.

Does anyone know if this actually causes mail to be delivered faster? And if so how much faster?

[da_chimperor]

1. I'd really like to know too, i've gotta mail something important soon

:kick:

[nini]

3. the most it would delay it would be a day

and even that is doubtful. It just cuts down on sorting passes.

[da_chimperor]

7. I think i'll put it on anyway

a day quicker would really help. Thanks for the info! :yourock:

[nini]

2. yes... it can sort down to your route easier if you use it

God help me for knowing the answer to that one.


Actually goes to your route, block, etc

[olddem43]

4. Yes, because the sorting machines can sort it directly to the carrier.

That can save steps in the sorting process and therefore time.

[Yunaleska]

6. That makes sense

But if a machine reads it wouldn't it be able to figure out the +4 number it's self once it reads the address? Or does it just not work that way?

[unblock]

8. it's much easier to read the numbers

IF your printing is sufficiently clear by the time it reaches the scanner, then it can read in the entire address, look it up in a database, hopefully find your address in the zip+4, create the sorting instructions.

but if supply the zip+4, it can skip all that. that work is partially manual in the event that the computer can't clearly read the entire address. if everything works properly, then you won't really save any time by supplying the zip+4 yourself. but by supplying it, you cut down on the chances of having your piece kicked out for manual processing.

IN AGGREGATE, zip+4 saves a tremendous amount of time and effort, to the point where they offers discount for bulk mailers who sort and supply zip+4 and extra information (cr/lot). but on any single piece, it might not save any time or it might save a day or two.

[truthpusher]

5. yes - i sell books on-line and it definitely helps with shipping.

this website will give you the +4 zip by just putting the address:

http://zip4.usps.com/zip4/welcome.jsp

[BlueJazz]

9. It Depends. If "Newman" is your mailman then it...

..won't make any differance. :)

"Jerry, you realize you delivered over 76 percent of the mail...nobody's EVER done that before!"