MapForums

So, I have a couple questions...here goes:

I am starting a pickup and delivery company of sorts where boundaries and routing are crucial. I am trying to create a zip code boundary map of Richmond, VA, but I see no easy way of doing this. I have looked in help sections and have mapped a zip code, but it won't draw the boundary. I saw this sentence in a previous article:

"MapPoint uses the most current set of ZIP Code boundaries possible."

So does it allow me to do this easily? Seems like it should if the data is held in MapPoint 2004.

In addition, with the delivery route, I will have a starting point and ending point every day, but the points in between will be very different each day. Is there a way to plug in say 20-30 points daily and have it map out the best route rather than having to say this is my first stop, this is my second, and so on. Basically I want MapPoint to figure out what my best route is based on either distance or time. Possible?

Thanks for your help on this...and wish me luck on my new business venture...hopefully this is the end of my ties to a coporate life!

Bobby

This could rate in the stupidest workarounds, but it might help you.

Go to the Data Mapping Wizard,
choose Shaded Area,
Next,
select Add Demographics to the Map,
select US Demographic Data,
Next,
select Area in Square Miles, <none>, Zip Code,
Next,
Finish

You get a map shaded by Zip Code. I don't know if it will help, but it might be a start. All the best with this sad program helping your dream business.

Apollyon

And, if you Google for it, there is software out there that offers the ability to make those boundaries you want from census data.

Apollyon

AH HAH!!!
I've found the way to make zip codes boundaries as territories (assuming that is what you want).

Start the Create Teritories Wizard,
select Create Manually,
Next,
select US, Zip Code,
Next,
read the explanation of Individually,
Finish.

You then create each territory (I named each one a zip code number I wanted to map). Then select each territory and for each one, select the zip code number (as in the Individual description). And click Add to Territory. The Zip Code boundary is now your territory.

Apollyon

Interesting, however, zip code boundaries run willy-nilly, even across county lines, with little respect for "territory". (I'm unsure as to whether or not they actually cross state lines.) The USPS will claim no responsibility for errors in misappropriating "territory" since THEIR defense is that "the Zip Code was not established for these purposes." I'd like to know the problems that occur with this plan, especially if they exist as a result of the company being "out-of-bounds" regarding any application. (Permit or permission from one county, but not another, or any "infringement" issues.)

SDB

I don't believe that zip codes cross state lines. The term "territory" is used here only as it is used in MP. I'd try mapping all the zip codes in your area of concern and see if they work for you. If they cross lines you can't legally work, then we can revisit this, I guess.

Apollyon