Once a structure is contained by a zone, no other zone (including the Default zone) can exchange cargo with it. You can set up <b>assigned routes</b> to exchange cargo between zones. You can also build conveyor belts or set up train lines to move cargo across.

If zones overlap, any structure in their overlapping area can be served by both zones.

Each zone can define which other zones are allowed to supply it with cargo for construction and deconstruction (including surface placement and manual tree planting). For example, you can create a dedicated zone that holds construction materials and set it as the <b>construction zone</b> for other zones. This way, you don't need to store construction materials in every zone. You can also allow the Default zone to serve as a construction zone for your custom zones.

Structures belong to a zone based on their physical location. Vehicles, however, must be explicitly assigned to zones to operate in them. You can assign a vehicle to a zone manually by clicking on the vehicle and using the zone dropdown selector. If a vehicle is assigned to a structure (like a mine tower or storage), it automatically inherits the zone of that structure. Once unassigned, the vehicle stays in the zone of the structure it was previously assigned to.

When a vehicle depot builds a new vehicle, it assigns it to the zone the depot belongs to. You can override this by setting a specific zone the depot should use. If a vehicle needs scrapping, recovery, or replacement, it will always prefer a depot within its own zone.

Zones also restrict dumping designations. However, if a {0} manages the designations, they are considered part of the tower's zone.