What is a PIN Code?

A PIN (Postal Index Number) code is a six digit number in the Indian postal system that is used to identify the particular area for delivering letters and packages. This code is used for making the postal service deliverable at the right address. This code system came into effect in India in 1972 to make accurate delivery of packages to the right area and at a particular institution, whether it is home, school, or even offices. 

Structure and Format for PIN Code 

The format for structure and format for PIN code is as follows:

Here’s the brief introduction for the format of PIN code and how it works:

• First figure of number (A)

 The first figure number (A) under the PIN code is the code that is used to define the region of India and covers a wide area of land. The first digit always represents the direction of the postal region (north, south, east, and west). There are 9 PIN regions, where 8 stands for geographical location and 9 is used for the army postal service. Typically, this code addresses the individual to mark the particular region for the delivery of packages.

• Subregion/Postal Circle (B)

The second characters are represented in numeric code under the PIN code, which approaches the postal circle or subregion. The subregion under PIN code is the geographical area, which is pre-defined with the state or administrative region within India.  

• Sorting District (C): 

 The third character (c) given within the PIN code represents the sorting circle or sorting district. This district is the circle where parcels or letters of an individual are collected, sorted, and distributed. This sorting district is the main post office of the region’s major city, which is known as the sorting office. Usually, the numeric number represented (C) in the PIN code is represented with 0, as the offices are located in the sorting’s district core area.  

• Exact post office in the districts (D/E/F):

The last 3 digits (D/E/F) enclosed within the PIN code are the exact address where the letters and parcels are delivered to the local district within the sorting district. This code helps to route letters or parcels to the correct place by directing the significant source to the correct destinations. 

Common Mistakes and Tips to Avoid the Misinterpretation of PIN Code

Some of the common mistakes have to be avoided while writing or getting a stamp of the PIN code for letters or parcels:

• Incorrect digit entry:

Sometimes, the incorrect digit entity can cause it to divert from the delivery destination. This incorrect digit entry can be avoided by double-checking the pin codes. 

• Assuming a universal PIN code:

Assuming that the single-pin code is used everywhere is the wrong assumption. Once you enter the PIN code, it is advisable to check with the government website. 

• Using outdated PIN codes:

By using the outdated PIN codes, it may lead to delivery of parcels and letters at the incorrect place, causing confusion and occupying a lot of time to consider delivery. 

Disclaimer 

The information provided here is latest and updated that is available to India Post, but the users are advised to cross check information with the respective Postal Office before using the information provided. The website or author is not for the topicality, correctness, completeness or quality of the information provided. Any liability claims concerning damage caused by the use of the information provided will therefore be rejected. 

Conclusion 

The PIN code is crucial for addressing the area where the individual resides. This PIN code is the source of separating individuals on the basis of the area. In India, there are 783 districts in the year 2023 with 4,000+ cities and towns, including metropolitan cities and class I cities. So there is a big need to adjust the PIN code in such a way that will dictate the address to the entity carrying the letters and parcels.