How to Find an Address Using a Postal Code

Easily locate an address using a reverse postal code lookup.

Postal code is a worldwide term for what we call aZone Improvement Plan, or ZIP code. The United States Postal Service began using postal codes in 1943. Both postal and ZIP codes refer to a series of numbers and letters that represent a certain city, post office or postal zone. In 1983, the USPS expanded postal codes to include a four-digit code at the end of a ZIP code. This code is used to identify a specific block or mailing center that receives high-volumes of mail. Using a postal code and the expanded ZIP code, you can locate an address using a reverse address tool.

Instructions

1. Go to the Melissa Data website and click "Free Lookups."

2. Click the "ZIP+4 Code" link located in the "Everything ZIP Codes" section.

3. Enter the nine-digit ZIP or postal code into the field and click "Submit."

4. View the results. The website lists a business or home address or a block address as a result. If the result is a block address, only the even or odd side of the street is included.

5. Click "Map G," "Map Y" or "Map V" to view a map of the location.

References

• Yahoo!: What is the Purpose of the 4-digit number after the 5-digit ZIP code?
• International Paper Knowledge Center: ZIP (Zone Improvement Plan) Code

Resources

• Melissa Data: Reverse ZIP + 4 Lookup
• Address Doctor: Postal Code Lookup