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Those last four digits are like a ZIP code within a Zip code. In 1983 the U.S. Postal Service began using the expanded ZIP (Zone Improvement Plan) code in order to expedite shipping to specific office blocks, mailing centers, and other areas that receive a high volume of mail. The last four numbers aren't mandatory, but they can help expedite delivery. You can find the "ZIP + 4" of any address in the United States by using this tool from the Postal Service. The USPS also explains how ZIP codes break down: the first three numbers indicate a "sectional center" or large city, the
second two indicate the specific post office facility, the third two indicate a sector or several blocks, and the last two indicate a segment or side of a street. And finally, if you're using a ZIP+4, always remember to separate the first five numbers from the last four numbers with a hyphen. Your mail carrier will appreciate it. And incidentally, ZIP codes start with "0" on the east coast and increase westwards across the continent (hence "Beverly Hills 90210").
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