9-Digit ZIP Code is Key to Getting Mail...

Story Number: NNS130910-01Release Date: 9/10/2013 3:10:00 AM
By Debbie Dortch, NAVSUP Corporate Communications

MECHANICSBURG, Pa. (NNS) -- Sailors not receiving mail as expected should remind senders about the United States Postal Service (USPS) requirement to use the nine-digit ZIP code on all mail sent to FPO and APO addresses.

Every mobile unit - ships, squadrons, detachments, et cetera, and OCONUS Shore installations - has a unique nine-digit ZIP code," said Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Navy Postal Policy Division Director Thomas Rittle. "Commanding officers should provide the correct ZIP codes to Sailors so they can notify their correspondents about the mandatory address requirement."

Units or commands unsure of their proper nine-digit ZIP code should contact their local Military Postal Service Representative.

In January 2013, all FPO and APO mail began routing through USPS automated mail sorting equipment at a consolidated mail processing operation in Chicago, Ill., which reads mail for the nine-digit ZIP code, rejecting mail not addressed with the nine-digit ZIP code.

USPS addressing tips, guidelines, and restrictions for FPO and APO mail are available at https://www.usps.com/ship/apo-fpo-guidelines.htm

Mail-by dates for pre-Dec. 25 delivery of holiday cards, letters, and packages were released Sept. 3. Dates range from November 12 through December 17, depending on destination and mail class. Find all the dates at http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=76321

ZIP codes are a system of postal codes used by the United States Postal Service (USPS) since 1963. The term ZIP is an acronym for Zone Improvement Plan. All U.S. addresses have a standard five-digit ZIP code that informs the postal service of the area of the country and the post office where mail is received. In 1983, the USPS added four digits to ZIP codes to help further pinpoint a recipient's location.

The NAVSUP and Navy Supply Corps team share one mission-to deliver sustained global logistics and quality-of-life support to the Navy and joint warfighter. NAVSUP/Navy Supply Corps' diverse team of more than 25,000 civilian and military personnel oversee a diverse portfolio including supply chain management for material support to Navy, Marine Corps, joint and coalition partners, supply operations, conventional ordnance, contracting, resale, fuel, transportation, security assistance, and quality of life issues for our naval forces, including food service, postal services, Navy Exchanges, and movement of household goods. The NAVSUP/Navy Supply Corps team forms a vast network of professionals who deliver unparalleled products and services to customers in the Fleet and across the world.