Correct address helps speed up delivery of the mail

Use ZIP+4

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Using the correct address helps speed up delivery of the mail, and in times of emergency, could mean the difference of life or death for first responders trying to find a business or residence.

“The Postal Service handles and delivers more than 560 million pieces of mail per day,” said Linda McEwen, Manager of Address Management Systems for the Greater Indiana District of the U.S. Postal Service. “We use high-speed electronic scanning equipment throughout our system to process and deliver large volumes quickly and accurately. This technology is most effective when correct and complete addresses are used.”

Proper addresses may be different from or contain more information than customers were accustomed to using in the past. For example, they may not be using the “PO” before the word “BOX,” or appropriate apartment or suite number.

Many local governments found it necessary to change some addresses to improve emergency services. The Postal Service incorporated this change as a way to improve mail delivery services.

“If your address has been changed, it is important that you begin using it immediately,” McEwen said.

Customers are asked to use complete address (including the 9-digit ZIP Code) on all of their correspondence.

“This will increase efficiency,” said McEwen, “and reduce handling and delivery times.”

Customers can find their correct ZIP+4 by going to the Postal Service website at www.usps.com/Find a ZIP Code.