Sort code
A sort code is a number which is assigned to a branch of a bank for internal purposes. Banks use sort codes as it is easier than writing the full address of the branch out and it tells customers which branch they are at.
In the United Kingdom and Ireland, the numbers are six digits long, usually formatted into pairs separated by hyphens (e.g. 12-34-56). In Germany, the numbers are eight digits long, usually formatted as 3-3-2 (e.g. 100 200 30). In Canada, the bank transit number is 8 digits long. This is divided into a 5 digit branch number and 3 digit institution code, for example 10000-200. In Australia, the BSB number is 6 digits long; two groups of three numbers (eg. 100-200). In Sweden, the number is four digits long(e.g. 1234), or, in the case of some accounts at the bank Swedbank, they are five digits in length (e.g. 1234-5) and precede the bank account number for interbanking purposes, with a hyphen added after the fourth digit.
Some branches contain sub/child branches which will be identified by the parent sort code rather than a unique one.
Most banks print the sort-code of your initial branch on your debit card or cheque book. 18-digit debit card numbers may include the six-digit sort-code between the initial four-digit card type and final eight-digit account number.
A variety of reference guides exist and your own bank should be able to look up the information for you if necessary.