What Does 'z I P In Zip Code Mean?

Zone improvement program code

ZIP codes are a series of codes used by the Unites States Postal Service (USPS). It stands for Zone Improvement Plan. ZIP codes help the mail to reach the destination more efficiently.  Each area of a city have a special 5 digit code. An extended ZIP code contains additional 4 digits followed by the ZIP code and a hyphen. Extended ZIP codes helps mail reach places which are very precise.

The first digit of the ZIP code represents the state, second and third digits together represent the region in that state and the fourth and the fifth digits together represent more specific areas such as small towns. ZIP code was a registered trademark of the USPS but was expired later. A mascot, Mr. Zip was used to promote the use of ZIP codes in the 1960's and 1970's.