Can I Pick Up My Package From FedEx?

Federal Express (FedEx) boasts an average of 16.5 million in daily package volume, many of which pass through any of the 18,000 FedEx OnSite locations across 220 countries.

With such substantial figures, you can imagine how challenging it is to deliver millions of packages daily worldwide. One solution to address this challenge is by providing you an option to pick up your package at a FedEx facility.

How does the FedEx Hold at Location service work? What do you need to bring to pick up your package? What options do you have when picking up your package?

This article discusses how to pick up your package held at a FedEx location before delivery and how long the shipping company will keep your parcel.

The article also explores FedEx Delivery Manager and what shipping options you can use with this service.

FindPostOffice.org has a broad collection of articles to help with your shipping needs through several providers like FedEx, the United States Postal Service (USPS), and United Parcel Service (UPS). 

FindPostOffice.org also has an online search tool to help you locate the nearest post office.

“What Is FedEx Hold at Location? Can I Pick Up My FedEx Package Before Delivery?”

FedEx Hold at Location is a service where you can choose from a list of FedEx locations as your shipment’s destination aside from your delivery address.

When your shipment arrives at your chosen location, FedEx notifies you that you have seven days to pick up your order. Bring your valid identification (I.D.) card and tracking number to help ensure a smooth pickup process.

“What Do I Need to Bring to Pick Up a Package at FedEx?”

You must show a government-issued photo ID to pick up your FedEx package. If the package label address does not match the address on your I.D., you should also bring an alternative I.D. and your package’s tracking number.

Do You Need an I.D. to Pick Up a Package From FedEx?

As mentioned, you must provide a government-issued photo I.D. at the pickup location to claim your package from FedEx.

You must present an alternative identification and your item’s tracking number to pick up your package if your government-issued I.D. does not reflect the applicable address. For your alternative I.D., you can use any of the following:

• Utility bill or statement
• Auto or health insurance card
• Credit card statement
• Property statement

What Is a Letter of Authorization (LOA) in Shipping?

An LOA is a signed document permitting you to act on behalf of another person or business.

In shipping, an LOA allows you to claim and receive packages on behalf of the person who signed the letter for you.

Suppose you sign the LOA for remote pickup. You must provide FedEx with all the necessary information for the company to process your request. This information includes the following:

• Payor’s FedEx account number
• Full name
• Address
• Telephone
• Email address

Will FedEx Ask for It?

Suppose you live in the same house as the recipient, but they can’t get their parcel. Upon claiming the recipient’s package at a FedEx facility, you have not brought their Q.R. (quick response) code and have no proof you live there. In this case, FedEx can require you to show an LOA.

Usually, the recipient who wants their package picked up by someone else will have to deliver the LOA to the FedEx office.

Once the person picking up the package arrives, they can show an I.D. matching the information given to FedEx.

What if It’s Your Relative Picking Up Your Package?

Even if the person picking up your item is a relative, having the same last name is insufficient for them to receive a package on your behalf. Instead, they must show they have the same address for them to pick up your parcel without any issues.

“How Long Will a Location Hold My Package for Pickup?”

Once your package arrives at the specified pickup location, FedEx can hold your FedEx Express or FedEx Ground package for up to seven days. If you do not claim your package after that period, FedEx will return it to the shipper.

“How Do I Pick Up a FedEx Package Early?”

If your package arrives at a local facility, you cannot pick up your item until after FedEx processes it. Once the package is processed, the company will contact you by email or phone and inform you if your parcel is ready for pickup.

Afterward, you must bring the item’s tracking number or door tag (a notification left at your delivery address if you cannot receive the package) and a government-issued photo I.D. that contains your address.

Parcels redirected to a FedEx location after shipping are usually available on the original delivery date. However, your package may need additional time to get to the new site, depending on when you make the redirect request.

FedEx Hold at Location (HAL) Services

FedEx lets you pick up your package in person before the courier attempts delivery through a free service called Hold at Location.

Offering this service for free shows that FedEx is always trying to grow its customer relations and add more value without squeezing every penny to profit from the company’s customer base.

How HAL Works

Suppose you request FedEx to hold your package for pickup. When the courier delivers your parcel to a FedEx location, you will receive a text, email, or automated phone call notifying you that the item is ready for pickup.

If you pick up a missed delivery, FedEx will hold your parcel for up to seven days before returning it to the shipper. This service works for FedEx Ground and FedEx Express services.

To claim your package, bring your government-issued photo I.D., tracking number, and door tag number to the pickup location.

When Does a FedEx HAL Make Sense?

You may have different reasons to consider having FedEx hold your package so that you can pick it up instead of having the courier deliver it to your doorstep. The succeeding sections discuss these issues.

Delivery Issues

Some residential addresses in rural areas and crowded buildings may give the FedEx logistical system a challenging time, leading to more delivery problems than usual.

If you live in these areas and are tired of adjusting to these issues, consider requesting a HAL and getting the package at a secure FedEx location.

Risk of Package Theft

Some places may have a high incidence of porch piracy. Porch pirates are individuals who steal parcels from other people’s homes.

Finding out a package you expect to arrive at your doorstep has gone missing because someone has stolen it can be a stressful experience.

In such cases, consider going through the process of tracking the package down and contacting FedEx, the shipper, or both.

One option to help prevent porch piracy is having FedEx hold your package. This way, the company can secure your item at a FedEx location until you pick it up.

Scheduling Conflicts

Sometimes, you want to receive packages at home but arrive from work later than expected. In other cases, you may be out of town for a few days and still expect packages, but you do not like having your packages sit for hours or days until you return home.

Such scheduling conflicts can happen anytime, so these situations can be a viable reason to set up HAL solutions.

Why Does FedEx Hold a Package?

Suppose your package arrives at a FedEx location before the estimated delivery date. In this case, the company will hold that item until the said date. FedEx can also keep your parcel if the courier arranges many shipments on the same day.

FedEx Pickup Options

When you make your pickup request, FedEx offers three ways to set up your package pickup. The following sections discuss these options. 

One-Time Pickup

If you are an occasional shipper, on-call pickups can be a flexible option. You can schedule a pickup using FedEx’s pickup application or while creating a shipping label online.

One-time express or ground package pickup can be an excellent choice when you need a fast pickup service. FedEx lets you schedule a same-day or next-day pickup or request a ground pickup the next business day or up to two weeks after.

Recurring FedEx Pickup

If you are a business that ships a predictable volume daily, consider recurring pickups to fit your needs. You do not need to call FedEx or go online to schedule a pickup through this service.

This service lets FedEx pick up your packages every business day and allows you to schedule recurring pickups for FedEx Ground, FedEx Express, or FedEx Freight shipments.

Dropoff

If you are a regular shipper but do not send packages daily, automated FedEx pickups can be a viable solution. This way, you do not have to schedule pickups. Instead, the courier will only come on the days you need to ship, allowing you to save time and money.

You can schedule automated pickups for FedEx Ground or FedEx Express shipments. However, such pickups are unavailable for freight services.

“Why Was My Package Taken to a FedEx Location For Customer Pickup?”

Suppose the courier cannot leave your package at your home or the delivery requires your signature. FedEx can deliver your package to the nearest secure pickup location instead, such as a Walgreens store or your local FedEx office.

You can pick up your package by stopping by the location listed on your door tag at your convenience. Your parcel can be picked up sometimes as early as the same day.

“What Happens if I Don’t Make It to FedEx in Time?”

If you cannot pick up your package at a FedEx location, the courier will likely attempt another delivery. Depending on the circumstances, you may be unable to make another HAL request.

In most cases, FedEx will drop off your package at the initial delivery address, whether you will be home to receive it or not. Rarely, however, will the courier return the item to the shipper, who will have to send it back to you again.

What Is FedEx Delivery Manager?

Through FedEx Delivery Manager, you can customize your delivery preferences, track your FedEx deliveries, and manage delivery times and locations.

What Is the Cost to Sign Up for FedEx Delivery Manager?

Signing up for a FedEx Delivery Manager account is free. Furthermore, many frequently used delivery options are free, with only a few costing a fee.

Which Options Are Complimentary With FedEx Delivery Manager?

With FedEx Delivery Manager, you can use the following complimentary services:

• Signing up
• Tracking shipments
• Saving preferences
• Signing for packages remotely
• Receiving alerts
• Redelivering your package
• Providing delivery instructions
• Requesting a FedEx Hold for Pickup
• Requesting a vacation hold up to 14 days

“Do I Have to Download the FedEx Mobile App in Order to Use FedEx Delivery Manager?”

The FedEx Mobile app can be convenient for your FedEx shipping needs. However, you do not have to download it to get FedEx Delivery Manager’s full benefits.

FedEx Delivery Manager is a web-based service that lets you access the same delivery options through your preferred browser. Simply go to the official website at FedEx.com and sign up for an account.

What Information Is Needed to Sign Up for FedEx Delivery Manager?

To create a FedEx Delivery Manager account, you only need to provide the following:

• First and last name
• Residential address
• Email address
• Phone number

Which FedEx Delivery Manager Options Require an Additional Fee?

As of September 2023, the cost per request to use the following options starts at $5.55:

• Deliver on another day
• Deliver to another address
• Schedule the delivery time

Fees vary based on location and on when you request the service.

Does FedEx Delivery Manager Provide the Option of Receiving Notifications via Text?

Yes, you can receive text notifications by signing up for this option in your FedEx Delivery Manager account.

Let Your Customers Enjoy the Best eCommerce Experience

If you run an online business, FedEx can help enhance your customers’ experience by providing them with a package pickup option. This way, you can give your customers a choice to pick up their items at a secure FedEx location if home delivery is inconvenient.

How Can an Online Store Add FedEx Hold Option?

As an online retailer, one way to add a hold option for FedEx deliveries is to use a real-time shipping solution, such as through the 3dcart (now Shift4Shop) Plus plan or higher. Also, you must design your online shop using 3dcart’s core themes or by custom design.

General FedEx Questions

Read the following frequently asked questions (FAQs) to learn more about FedEx’s pickup services for your delivery needs.

I got a door tag. What should I do?

If you receive a door tag, follow its directions to pick up your package. Upon arriving at the location specified on the tag, bring your tracking number and a government-issued photo I.D. to pick up your parcel.

Suppose the address on your I.D. does not match the recipient’s address on the package. Bring a current bill with your matching name and address.

If your business is the package’s recipient, provide alternative proof, like a business card or billing statement, indicating your connection to this business.

Some packages need an adult signature when delivered to a recipient who’s 21 or older. If you need to pick up this package, FedEx will hold it at the specific location for five business days. After which, it may be returned to the shipper.

You can also request another delivery attempt by calling 1-800-GoFEDEX (1-800-463-3339).

What does “last pickup” mean?

The last pickup is the latest time FedEx can pick up your package from a drop box or FedEx location on a specific day. If you bring your package in or drop it off after the last pickup time, it will be shipped the next business day.

When and where can I pick up my package?

If FedEx redirects your package or holds it for pickup at a retail location, here are the things you should consider:

• The courier will notify you if your parcel is ready for pickup. You may receive an email, text, automated phone call, or door tag.
• If you submit a hold at location request, FedEx will store your package at your specified location.
• If you miss a delivery, check the door tag left at your place. With this tag, you can do any of the following:
  • Input the door tag number into FedEx’s online tracking tool.
  • Text “Follow” and your door tag number to 48773.
  • Scan the door tag’s barcode using the FedEx Mobile app.

How can I request to pick up my order at a FedEx location?

Suppose you have a FedEx Home Delivery or commercial ground shipment in transit. You can request to pick up your order at a FedEx location by following these steps:

• Go to the FedEx tracking page and input your tracking number. Select “Manage Delivery,” then “Hold at Location.”
• Choose a location from the list of options where you want to request your package to be sent. You can also search for other participating locations nearby.
• Wait for a text, email, or phone notification letting you know your package is ready for pickup.

What is a request for FedEx Hold for Pickup?

FedEx Hold for Pickup lets you request the shipping company to hold your package at a FedEx location. You can schedule when to pick up your parcel at a convenient location, such as near your workplace or home.

What is the deadline for making a FedEx Hold for Pickup request?

Your package will be available for pickup the next day if you can make a Hold for Pickup request before midnight on the day before the scheduled delivery.

Why was my package taken to a FedEx location for customer pickup?

As mentioned, FedEx can deliver your package to a nearby secure location for pickup instead of leaving the item at your home. This shipping service works if your delivery requires a signature or you aren’t home.

Why are certain delivery options unavailable to me?

If you are the recipient, FedEx Delivery Manager will allow you to select only eligible delivery options. Some of these options are unavailable because some shippers restrict them or do not allow recipients to modify the destination when the shipment is in transit.

What is the deadline for choosing to deliver a package to another address?

You have until midnight before the delivery date to change the address on your eligible packages. This requirement is similar to the deadline for making a pickup request.

Why is my package here, at this specific store?

Your package is usually held at a FedEx facility near your home so that you can pick up your package at that location on the same day as your missed delivery attempt.

How can I prevent my packages from being stolen?

You can send your parcel to one of 11,000 secure locations near you using FedEx Delivery Manager. This service lets you get tracking information alerts and request a package vacation hold.

How does a vacation hold work?

When you have a FedEx Express or FedEx Ground delivery to your residence, a vacation hold suspends such deliveries for a specific date range of up to 14 days. Afterward, FedEx resumes regular delivery on the first business day after your end date.

What is a delivery exception?

A delivery exception is when a temporary delay happens to your package while in transit due to unavoidable circumstances, such as a weather issue, natural disaster, or vehicle issue, like a flat tire.

FedEx makes a reasonable effort to deliver your package immediately, so receiving a delivery exception notification does not immediately mean your shipment will arrive late.

How can I refuse a FedEx delivery?

Suppose you receive a package requiring your signature. You can refuse this delivery through the following steps:

• Tell the driver you do not want the package and refuse to sign for it.
• If you have a business, you can refuse the package through a gatekeeper or receptionist.
• Do not sign the acknowledging receipt if you refuse the package.
• If you miss three delivery attempts, FedEx will automatically return a package that requires your signature to the sender.

If the package does not require your signature, you can refuse the delivery service through any of the following actions:

• Refuse delivery once the courier delivers the package.
• Call customer service at 1-800-GoFEDEX (1-800-463-3339) and provide your tracking number to the customer support representative.
• Schedule a pickup through a representative or ask them for assistance to direct you to a FedEx dropoff location to return the package.

References

1. Company structure and facts
   https://www.fedex.com/en-us/about/company-structure.html
2. Hold your package at a secure location
   https://www.fedex.com/en-us/shipping/hold-at-location.html
3. Schedule a FedEx pickup
   https://www.fedex.com/en-us/shipping/schedule-manage-pickups.html
4. FedEx Office locations
   https://local.fedex.com/en/fxo-only
5. Frequently Asked Questions – FedEx Delivery Manager®
   https://www.fedex.com/en-us/faq/delivery-manager.html