Each zip code (in the United States) is associated with an area. That area might include more than one town or city but to my knowledge it includes one and only one state. So, when I’m filling out a web form that asks for my zip code can’t the internets figure out which state it is? Why do I have to pick the dang state from a drop down?
(I mentioned this to someone the other day and he suggested one reason to ask for both is to double check that you didn’t make an error – check and confirm that the zip you entered goes with the state you entered. That might be an okay reason (although I think I’d be okay with taking my chances) – but do any web sites out there really do that error check? No.)
Zip codes do cross state lines.
Seriously? Where? Okay, if that’s the case then I’ll change my suggestion – which probably makes the code behind the form 100 times more complex (but still totally simple) – after the zip code is entered narrow down the drop-down list of states to the only options that apply.
Lakeview California/Oregon (97630). Since zip codes are just service areas for the USPS, they don’t always follow state lines.
There are also places in Nevada without zip codes.
I agree with you that it’s a pain.
Check this out: http://benfry.com/zipdecode/