FedEx tracking

What is FedEx?

FedEx, short for Federal Express, is an American package and logistics transportation company founded in 1971 by Frederick W. Smith. Smith's original idea was bold for the time: to create a reliable express delivery network enabling documents and goods to be shipped overnight across the United States. This vision revolutionized the delivery industry and established new standards for speed and reliability in package transportation.

Commercial operations officially began in 1973 from Memphis International Airport in Tennessee, which quickly became the company's main hub. This strategic choice, in the geographical heart of the United States, allowed FedEx to optimize transit times across the entire American territory. During the 1970s and 1980s, FedEx expanded at a rapid pace by constantly innovating in the sector. The company notably introduced a computerized package tracking system, a first in the industry, and invested in a fleet of aircraft dedicated exclusively to express freight, allowing it to offer the famous slogan "absolutely, positively overnight."

In 1983, FedEx achieved annual revenue of one billion dollars for the first time, testament to growing demand for fast and reliable deliveries. This spectacular growth confirmed the relevance of the business model developed by Frederick Smith. International expansion began in the 1980s, with the first services to Canada in 1981, marking the beginning of a global presence that would continue to expand over the decades.

• Founded: 1971, with commercial operations launching in 1973 from Memphis Airport
• Founder: Frederick W. Smith, visionary American entrepreneur who revolutionized express transportation
• Headquarters: Memphis, Tennessee, United States, at the heart of the American logistics network
• Annual revenue: Tens of billions of dollars annually, making FedEx one of the world's largest transportation companies
• Workforce: Several hundred thousand employees worldwide, making it one of the largest employers in the logistics sector
• Air fleet: Several hundred cargo aircraft, constituting the world's largest civilian cargo fleet
• Daily volume: Over 15 million packages processed daily across the global network

The acquisition of Flying Tiger Line in 1989 propelled FedEx among the world's largest air freight companies. This strategic operation brought the company new international routes, an expanded aircraft fleet including Boeing 747 cargo planes, and sorting infrastructure on multiple continents. During the 1990s, FedEx continued to innovate by becoming the first transportation company to offer online shipment tracking with the launch of fedex.com in 1994. That same year, the "Federal Express" brand was officially shortened to "FedEx," a more impactful name easily recognized internationally.

In 2016, FedEx completed one of its most significant acquisitions by purchasing TNT Express, the Dutch international courier company, for approximately €4.4 billion. This operation significantly extended FedEx's road and air network in Europe, strengthening its ability to offer fast intra-European deliveries and connect Europe to the rest of the world. Today, FedEx Corporation ranks among the five largest American companies and remains an essential player in global express transportation, with over fifty years of expertise in the field.

In which countries does FedEx deliver?

FedEx provides particularly extensive geographical coverage, serving more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. This global presence makes FedEx one of the carriers with the most extensive network on the planet, allowing businesses and individuals to ship packages to virtually any international destination.

In the United States, its original market, FedEx has complete territory coverage with a particularly dense logistics network. The American network relies on strategic sorting centers located in Memphis, Indianapolis, Newark and Anchorage, the latter serving as a crucial transit point for flows between Asia and the North American continent. FedEx also serves all of Canada and Mexico with services tailored to each market's specific requirements.

• North America: Complete coverage of the United States, Canada and Mexico with express and ground services
• Europe: Presence in all European Union countries as well as Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Norway and Eastern European countries
• Asia-Pacific: Developed network in China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia and throughout the region
• Middle East and Africa: Services available to the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and major economies in the region
• Latin America: Coverage of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia and all countries on the continent

In Europe, FedEx has relied since the TNT acquisition on a particularly developed road network complemented by strategic air platforms. Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle Airport serves as the nerve center of FedEx's European operations, alongside Liège Airport in Belgium. This infrastructure enables the carrier to guarantee next-day express deliveries to most European capitals and major cities. More than 40,000 drop-off points are available throughout Europe, with nearly 75% remaining open after 6 p.m. to facilitate shipments and pickups.

In Asia, FedEx operates a strategic sorting center in Canton (Guangzhou), China, established through obtaining the right to operate direct air links with the country as early as 1995. Major facilities are also present in Osaka, Japan and Singapore, enabling efficient connection of Asian markets with each other and the rest of the world. China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, India and Australia are among the most served destinations in the region.

FedEx consolidated its global presence over the years through the acquisition of local and regional carriers: ANC Holdings in the United Kingdom, PAFEX in India, MultiPack in Mexico, Rapidão Cometa in Brazil, Opek in Poland and Tatex in France. Each of these operations integrated local transport networks into FedEx's global supply chain, offering customers extensive coverage and valuable local expertise for navigating each market's specificities.

What are FedEx's delivery services and timeframes?

FedEx offers a complete range of delivery services suited to all needs, from the most urgent shipments to economical expeditions. The American carrier has built its reputation for excellence on its ability to meet strict deadlines, offering for most of its express services a refund guarantee in case of delay.

For urgent shipments in Europe, FedEx Europe First guarantees next-day delivery by 9:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. depending on the destination postal code. This premium service covers more than 16,000 European postal codes, notably in major business centers in Germany, Belgium, Spain, France, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands and Switzerland. This option is particularly popular with businesses needing critical documents or goods as soon as offices open.

• FedEx International First: Morning delivery within 1 to 2 business days from 47 European countries to 22 worldwide destinations
• FedEx International Priority Express: Premium service with delivery by noon to Canada and 33 other selected countries
• FedEx International Priority: Express delivery within 1 to 3 business days to over 220 countries and territories
• FedEx International Economy: Economic solution with delivery within 2 to 5 business days depending on destination
• FedEx Regional Economy: Intra-European deliveries within 1 to 4 business days at competitive rates
• FedEx International Connect Plus: Economic international shipping with delivery within 2 to 3 days depending on origin

Delivery timeframes vary depending on destination and service chosen. For intra-European shipments, FedEx generally guarantees next-day delivery to major metropolitan areas and 2 to 4 days for more remote regions. To North America, allow 1 to 3 days with priority service and 4 to 6 days with economical service. Shipments to Asia-Pacific are delivered within 1 to 3 days express and 4 to 7 days in economical mode.

FedEx ensures Monday through Friday deliveries in most markets. In some countries where Saturday is considered a standard business day, delivery on that day is also available at no extra charge. For particularly urgent shipments, FedEx Custom Critical offers a tailor-made service that can charter a dedicated vehicle or even a charter aircraft at any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, including holidays.

It is important to note that stated timeframes may be affected by local or regional holidays in each country, weather conditions, and customs procedures for international shipments. Shipments requiring additional documents beyond the standard shipping form, such as a commercial invoice or specific certificates, may also require additional delivery time for administrative processing.

What are FedEx's rates and maximum dimensions accepted?

FedEx rates are calculated based on several parameters: the weight of the shipment, its dimensions, the destination, the service chosen and any additional options. The carrier uses the concept of dimensional weight to charge bulky but lightweight packages, applying the higher rate between actual weight and dimensional weight.

FedEx calculates dimensional weight according to the following formula: length x height x width of the package (in centimeters) divided by 5,000. This result gives the dimensional weight in kilograms. If this dimensional weight exceeds the actual weight of the package, it will be used for pricing. This method allows FedEx to optimize the loading of its aircraft and vehicles while charging fairly for space occupied.

• Maximum weight per package: 68 kg for standard FedEx Express and FedEx Ground services
• Maximum length: 274 cm for the longest side of the package
• Length + combined girth: 419 cm maximum
• Freight shipments: 68 kg to 1,000 kg in Europe, up to 1,995 kg for certain destinations
• Minimum freight weight: 68 kg billable minimum for any shipment submitted as freight, regardless of actual weight

FedEx offers different pricing grids depending on geographical destination zones. For shipments via the Global One Rate program, rates for an XS package (0.5 kg) range from approximately $40 to nearby Europe to $105 to Asia-Pacific. For an S package (1 to 2.5 kg), expect between $50 and $175 depending on the zone. These rates are excluding customs duties and taxes which are charged separately.

FedEx regularly updates its pricing grids, with adjustments to certain service fees in particular. FedEx reserves the right to modify its rates, surcharges and delivery timeframes if necessary, with or without notice. Service availability and prices may vary depending on pickup and delivery location, package size or weight, and the type of item shipped.

For packages exceeding the standard 68 kg limit, FedEx Freight offers palletized freight transportation solutions with express delivery at guaranteed timeframes. This option allows for shipment of heavy or bulky goods that cannot be transported via standard package services. Surcharges for additional handling apply to non-standard shipments that require special treatment due to their format, weight or packaging.

What are FedEx's delivery options?

FedEx offers great flexibility in delivery options to adapt to each recipient's constraints and preferences. The carrier has developed a complete ecosystem of solutions allowing packages to be received according to availability, whether at home, at a business location or at a pickup point.

Home delivery is the standard option offered by FedEx. The driver arrives at the specified address during delivery hours, generally between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. If no one is home, the driver may leave a delivery notice and attempt delivery again the next business day. For shipments requiring a signature, the package will be held pending further instructions.

• Home delivery: Standard service with option for required signature or drop-off authorization
• Business delivery: Routing to the business address during business hours
• FedEx drop-off points: Pickup at FedEx offices and partner locations with extended hours
• Partner pickup points: Pharmacies, supermarkets and local businesses participating in the network
• Automated lockers: Lockers accessible 24/7 to pick up packages independently
• Secure drop boxes: Pickup points accessible at all times for pre-labeled shipments

FedEx Delivery Manager is a free service allowing recipients to customize their delivery preferences. After registering on the FedEx website or app, users can choose the delivery date and address for their packages at no additional cost. It is thus possible to redirect a shipment to a FedEx drop-off point, schedule delivery for a later date or change the destination address before the delivery attempt.

FedEx's network of pickup points in Europe includes more than 40,000 locations, including FedEx-owned drop-off points with dedicated staff, third-party partner businesses, automated lockers and drop boxes. Nearly 75% of these points remain open after 6 p.m., offering great flexibility for people with demanding work schedules. Packages are generally held for 5 to 7 business days at a pickup point before being returned to the sender.

For notifications, FedEx offers email or SMS alerts allowing tracking of delivery progress. These notifications inform the recipient of the estimated delivery date, passage through the local sorting center and departure for delivery. This real-time visibility allows anticipating package receipt and organizing accordingly. If unable to deliver to the original address, FedEx contacts the recipient to propose alternatives such as pickup at a relay point or rescheduling.

What should I do if my FedEx package is lost or damaged?

FedEx has a structured claims procedure to handle cases of lost, damaged or delivered packages with missing contents. The carrier commits to examining each claim and proposing an appropriate solution within the best timeframe, generally within 5 to 7 business days after receiving the complete file.

If receiving a visibly damaged package, it is essential to carefully examine its condition before signing the delivery form. If damage is noted to the outer packaging, it should be explicitly mentioned on the delivery receipt and photos should be taken immediately to preserve visual evidence. This step is essential to facilitate subsequent claims processing. It is also recommended to check package contents in the presence of the driver if possible.

• Timeframe to report damage: 21 days maximum after delivery date for damaged packages
• Loss claim timeframe: 9 months after package pickup by FedEx for non-delivery cases
• Who can file a claim: The sender, recipient or authorized third party
• Evidence preservation: Keep original packaging and all materials until the case is resolved
• Processing timeframe: 5 to 7 business days after receipt of form and supporting documents

To submit a claim, FedEx provides an online form accessible from its website. It is also possible to contact the FedEx virtual assistant, available 24/7, which can guide you toward the appropriate procedure or transfer you to a specialist in case of complex situation. The claim must include the package tracking number, a precise description of the problem encountered and the claimant's complete contact information.

Supporting documents to provide include proof of value of damaged or lost goods. This may take the form of a copy of the original vendor or supplier invoice, a copy of the retailer invoice or receipt, the online order confirmation page with proof of payment, or a repair invoice detailing the items concerned. Without these supporting documents, FedEx will not be able to evaluate the compensation amount to propose.

If FedEx's responsibility is established, the carrier proceeds with reimbursement corresponding to the declared value of the package, within the limit of applicable coverage for the service used. FedEx offers basic coverage for all shipments, with the amount varying depending on destinations and the type of service chosen. For goods of significant value, it is recommended to subscribe to additional coverage at the time of shipment to benefit from appropriate protection.

Does FedEx handle international shipments and customs procedures?

FedEx has recognized expertise in managing international shipments and supporting customs procedures. With its presence in over 220 countries and territories, the carrier has developed integrated customs clearance services that significantly simplify cross-border shipments for its customers.

For any international shipment, certain documents are essential to allow customs clearance. The international shipping form is required for all shipments without exception. The commercial invoice, which details the nature, quantity and value of goods, must accompany commercial shipments. Depending on product type and destination country, additional documents may be required: certificates of origin, export licenses, sanitary or phytosanitary declarations.

• Shipping form: Mandatory document for all international shipments, generated when creating the shipment
• Commercial invoice: Necessary for goods shipments, detailing value and nature of products
• EORI number: Required for shipments from or to countries outside the European Union
• HS Code (Harmonized System): Customs classification of goods facilitating calculation of customs duties
• Power of Attorney: Authorization allowing FedEx to perform customs clearance on behalf of the customer

The EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) is a legal requirement for any business or individual shipping goods from or to countries outside the European Union. This number must appear on all customs declarations and customs authorities will refuse import of any goods not accompanied by a valid EORI number. This number is assigned by the customs authorities of the country of residence or establishment of the business.

FedEx provides several online tools to facilitate customs procedures. An HS code search service allows identification of the correct customs classification of your goods, essential for calculating applicable duties and taxes. The Electronic Trade Documents (ETD) service allows downloading an electronic version of shipping documents, accelerating administrative processing. These intuitive solutions aim to ensure shipments comply with the importing country's regulations.

Customs duties and taxes are controlled by each country's authorities and aim to adapt the price of imported goods to that of local products. Depending on the shipment value, the importer may need to pay these duties before receiving the package. FedEx offers different payment options for duties and taxes: payment by the recipient at delivery, prepayment by the sender, or use of an importer account. For any questions about customs procedures, it is recommended to contact your country's customs service or FedEx customer service.

Understanding tracking statuses

When tracking a FedEx package online, different statuses may appear to inform you of your shipment's progress through the network. FedEx pioneered real-time package tracking and today offers a detailed system allowing you to know precisely the status of each shipment. Here are the main statuses and their meanings: