Style Zip Code Text For Free

The correct format for a numeric ZIP+4 code is five digits, a hyphen, and four digits. The first five digits represent the 5-digit ZIP Code; the sixth and seventh digits (the first two after the hyphen) identify an area known as a sector; the eighth and ninth digits identify a smaller area known as a segment.

If you want to improve the chances that the letter will make it to its destination quickly, you should use the five-digit ZIP code plus the four additional numbers that are specific to the area. To format, write the ZIP code with a hyphen afterward and then the four additional numbers will immediately follow that.

These should be placed on the same line as the street address. Place the city, state, and ZIP Code in that order on the last line. This must be the last line. Never place an ?attention line,? telephone number, or other entries after the ZIP Code line.

ZIP Codes? are an integral part of making sure your mailpiece is processed quickly and efficiently. Not having a ZIP Code? on your mail causes unnecessary delay because it will require manual look-up.

Since our caller works for the U.S. government, and ZIP codes are a government thing, I checked the US Printing Office style guide first. It recommends ?ZIP Code.? Associated Press style is similar: ?ZIP code??two words with ?ZIP? in all caps?but it uses a lowercase C, and I was surprised it would deviate.

Mailing addresses Note: ZIP is always all capital letters and code is lowercase. Use specific abbreviations for street suffixes (refer to the USPS comprehensive list of suffix abbreviations).

Use commas with places, cities, and addresses: Do you live at 115 North Street, Chesapeake, VA 23321? (There is no comma before zip code; also, there is no comma after zip code UNLESS the address appears in the middle of the sentence.)