I am having someone code a site for me and one of the features is that the end-user will be able to search for flower shops based upon zip code and distance (from that zip code) they input. How do you recommend I choose a reliable and accurate and updated zip code database? I see many zip code databases available for sale but don't know which one is the best. Thank you.
After you find your own zip code DB, I would look into Google Maps and/or Yahoo Maps geocoding API. That provides latitude and longitude for requested zip codes as well. Then it's just a matter of finding an algorithm for calculating distance (miles/kilometers) based on lat/long coordinates, but I've seen code around.
Maybe this was implied, but you might also want to forego the use of a server-side zip code database since Google and Yahoo are so thorough. The only problem is if you need to do more complex things with the zip codes, like finding zip codes within a certain distance of given lat/long coordinates...
Yes, I would like to use the zip code database to perform distance/radius searches from zip codes. How do I find a reputable and reliable database?
I can give you a script and db table for latitude and longitude ( a complete set for $20) and all you need is include vthe file and call the function to find 1. Distance between two zip codes you provide 2. Find available zipcodes within specific miles from yr zipcode Let me know Thanks Lavee