Shipping zones are geographical areas that help determine the cost and time it takes to deliver packages. Carriers like UPS, FedEx, and USPS divide regions into zones based on distance from their distribution centers. The farther a package needs to travel, the higher the shipping cost typically is. Each shipping zone is assigned a number, usually ranging from 1 to 8, with Zone 1 being the closest and Zone 8 being the farthest. Understanding these zones helps businesses and customers estimate shipping fees and delivery times, making it easier to plan for receiving or sending packages.