314 Purpose of Standardization

The purpose of standard abbreviations and compression guidelines is to provide a uniform reference when there is a need to condense address data. The standards contain the following components: an address format model indicating preferred address data element locations, a progression of optional line compression steps, and a table of standard abbreviations for the most commonly used business words. These tools are designed to meet the following objectives:

1. Improve computer matching of business address data in the merge/purge process and enhance the application of Postal Service address improvements.
2. Facilitate proper address compression for data transfers and differing output presentations, e.g., for Postal Service delivery vs. inside letter personalization or Cheshire labeling vs. ink jet printing.