FedEx Vehicle Tracking

In the fiscal year of 2022, Federal Express (FedEx), a delivery company based in the United States, delivered an average of 6.21 million packages daily through its FedEx Express service.

With such a significant figure, you may wonder how the company keeps track of these packages and monitors each parcel’s status as they get loaded onto FedEx vehicles and delivered to recipients.

Whether you are the shipper or recipient, you can check your package’s progress through tracking.

So, how do you track your FedEx shipment? Can you track the FedEx vehicle carrying your package?

What do the different tracking statuses mean? What tools does FedEx use to help you manage multiple shipments?

This article guides you through the FedEx vehicle tracking process and compares the various FedEx tracking tools. This article also explains how to ship with FedEx and how long your package arrives.

FindPostOffice.org offers a vast information resource for your shipping and mailing needs. FindPostOffice.org also provides an online search tool to locate post offices within the U.S.

FedEx Package Tracking: Here Is What You Need to Know

If you send a FedEx package and want to track its delivery, you must have a tracking or reference number for your request. Otherwise, you may find it challenging to see your shipment’s delivery progress.

One of FedEx’s powerful tracking tools is SenseAware. If you want advanced tracking for packages that need higher security, enhanced visibility, or quality assurance, this software is for you.

SenseAware offers real-time tracking information, such as your package’s location, temperature, humidity, and shock. 

Is your item in transit onboard a vehicle such as a truck? You can view your shipment’s current location on Google Maps down to the street level.

FedEx SenseAware requires a subscription to use. If you do not need this tool’s advanced features, such as monitoring the exact location of the vehicle transporting your item, FedEx has other tracking services for your needs, discussed in the following sections.

About FedEx Tracking

FedEx offers some of the most versatile tracking services, such as FedEx Tracking, FedEx Advanced Tracking, and FedEx Insight.

• FedEx Tracking is an all-purpose tracking tool on the official FedEx website. 

To use this tool, enter the FedEx tracking or order number in the search box. This process helps you get near-real-time updates without logging in.

• FedEx Advanced Tracking is an accurate and powerful parcel tracking tool that provides real-time tracking updates, smart intelligence for predicting the parcel’s transit route, and other related insights.
• FedEx Insight is a FedEx tracking system mainly used by businesses. 

Customers can request a FedEx Insight for their shipment. Upon approval, the customer can view their shipment details without entering a tracking number.

Which FedEx Services Offer Tracking?

Your ability to track a FedEx package sometimes depends on the shipping service you use to send your item. 

The following FedEx services have tracking included:

• FedEx Express
• FedEx Ground
• FedEx Freight
• FedEx Custom Critical
• FedEx Trade Networks

Key Benefits

Some of the advantages of FedEx Tracking are as follows:

• Track parcels in near-real-time without signing in to your account.
• Receive updates in one click on the homepage.
• Save your shipments for quick, near-real-time updates.
• Check all your deliveries on one clear interface.
• Create nicknames to simplify your search experience.

Guide on Tracking Your Package From FedEx

You can track your item in several ways, depending on your preference. The sections below explore these tracking methods to give you options for tracking your parcel.

Tracking Options

You have two primary options for tracking your item:

• FedEx Tracking: This tool at the top of the FedEx homepage lets you receive shipment updates in one click.
• FedEx Mobile Tracking: This mobile app is a convenient tracking tool that updates you 24/7 from any location, even on the go.

“How Can I Track My Package’s Exact Location?”

You can follow your package online, through the mobile app, or by phone to get the tracking status information and estimated delivery window for eligible shipments. These tracking methods are discussed further in the following sections.

You can use FedEx Delivery Manager to receive alerts and notifications if you prefer more visibility. You can also use this service to monitor incoming and outgoing packages throughout the delivery.

Meanwhile, FedEx SenseAware allows you to track your item’s exact location on Google Maps. If your package travels in a truck or another vehicle, this feature can help you determine your package’s current location.

FedEx Tracking Number

FedEx’s tracking number is a unique code that helps encrypt shipment details. When you ship an item at a FedEx retail location or after making an eCommerce purchase, the courier assigns a tracking number for each parcel.

FedEx Website

You can track FedEx packages’ status on the FedEx website using your desktop computer or mobile device. If your mobile device has a web browser, you can manage your shipment status through the FedEx mobile website.

FedEx Mobile App

FedEx offers mobile apps for managing and tracking shipments on the go. To do so, download and install FedEx Mobile for Android or iPhone.

Shipping labels created through your account or added to FedEx Advanced Tracking will automatically appear on your FedEx Mobile app.

FedEx Phone Number

To track using the phone, call 1-800-GoFedEx (1-800-463-3339) and say, “Track my package.” You can also text “Follow” plus your door tag number to 48773.

Information About FedEx Deliveries

As mentioned earlier, some FedEx delivery services like FedEx Express and Ground have tracking.

Furthermore, the FedEx website’s tracking search box allows you to enter up to 30 tracking, door tag, or FedEx Office order numbers to follow your shipments. This feature lets you track multiple packages in one click.

The Tracking Number of a FedEx Delivery

You will typically find the tracking number on the FedEx package’s shipping label. You will also receive this number in your email when you ship a package at any FedEx location or upon completing an eCommerce purchase.

The FedEx tracking number you get will usually have 12 digits, but there are also 10, 15, 20, and 22-digit numbers. Most of these numbers do not contain letters.

The Different FedEx Tracking Statuses

Your package’s tracking information will show different messages depending on your shipment’s delivery progress. These statuses are as follows:

• Canceled: Your package is no longer on its way to the original destination at the shipper’s or recipient’s request.
• Clearance delay: The shipment is still in customs for various reasons, such as missing documentation or inaccurate information.
• Delivered: Your package has arrived at its final destination.
• Delivery exception: An unexpected event is preventing the delivery of your package.
• Delivery is held, unable to collect payment: The courier has attempted to contact you regarding a shipment requiring necessary payment, such as taxes, duties, and other related fees, before delivery.
• In transit: Your package is heading to its final destination. Your package can also be at a FedEx facility.
• Local delay: Events like local holidays or sporting events in the delivery area can cause delays.
• Operational delay: Your package has encountered operational delays caused by issues like incorrect recipient address and postal code.
• Out for delivery: Your parcel is already out for delivery, or a handler has scanned your package for loading onto a FedEx truck for delivery.
• Scheduled delivery is now pending: The courier has made all efforts to deliver your package as soon as possible.
• Shipment information sent to FedEx: The package is at the shipper’s original location, and FedEx will update the delivery status upon pickup.
• Weather delay: Natural events like snow, fires, storms, or tornadoes outside FedEx’s control are causing delays.

Understanding FedEx Online Tracking Statuses

As you track your package heading to its destination, you will encounter the following notification types, depending on the delivery’s status:

• Picked up: FedEx has picked up your package from the merchant.
• Delivery exception: This notification provides details on package delivery issues, such as weather delays.
• Scheduled delivery date: This status specifies the estimated date your package gets delivered to the delivery address.
• Delivery confirmation: This status confirms whether your parcel has arrived at the specified address.

Manage Multiple Shipments With Customized Tracking, Reports, and More

FedEx Tracking has several features, such as customization, mobile tracking, and advanced tracking, that can benefit your business. Some of these features are discussed in the following sections.

When You Track Through Your Customized Tracking Dashboard, You Can Do the Following

Customized tracking using a personalized FedEx account dashboard lets you perform the following tasks:

• Access documents, images, and detailed tracking information, such as approximate delivery time windows.
• Customize your dashboard to filter, sort, and export reports, view shipments in the calendar or list view, and rename shipments for easy identification.
• Access tracking information for shipments associated with your account.
• Get proof of delivery by viewing and downloading an image of the recipient’s signature.
• Alert others to a shipment’s status, delivery, and changes via email notifications.

Other Ways Visibility Through Your Dashboard Can Help You Take Care of Business

If you have a business, you can use your FedEx account’s advanced tracking dashboard to do the following:

• Decrease costs by managing manufacturing and distribution resources more efficiently.
• Improve customer service and reduce complaints by communicating any potential delays.
• Recognize and resolve any problems or potential problems with your shipments quickly.

FedEx Mobile Tracking and Key Benefits

Mobile tracking places the power of FedEx Tracking in your hands wherever you are and provides the following benefits:

• Track your package from anywhere at any time.
• Follow your parcel with only one tap.
• Set up automatic alerts to stay up-to-date.
• Use barcode scanning to track items easily.

FedEx Tracking From U.S. to Canada

Suppose you have a package heading to Canada and want to track its status. You can get real-time status updates using FedEx Tracking on the company’s official website.

You can also consider using a third-party parcel-tracking website or widget to track your Canada-bound shipment. This way, you do not have to contact FedEx customer service to inquire about your parcel’s status.

Compare Tracking Tools

FedEx Advanced Tracking provides several tools for tracking single or bulk packages. These tracking tools include the following:

• Customized tracking dashboard: This tool lets you see a list of estimated delivery times for all shipments, access tracking images and documents, customize reports and views, and email notifications to recipients.
• Standard tracking: This feature provides an estimated delivery time window and lets you manage some delivery process aspects like address change or vacation hold.
• FedEx Delivery Manager: This service offers more shipment delivery visibility than standard tracking. Delivery Manager also lets you request address changes, schedule a delivery time, and provide shipping instructions.

FedEx Package Tracking – Problem With Parcel Services?

Sometimes, you may not get the desired results when tracking your package. Possible causes for this issue include the following:

• You may have entered the incorrect tracking number. 

To avoid this problem, double-check the voucher you received from the seller or FedEx Office. This helps ensure you typed the correct number.

• Sometimes, tracking information can take up to two days before it shows up in the system. 

In this case, wait until your package’s status gets updated.

How to Ship My Package With FedEx

To send a package via FedEx, you must follow a process to ensure the delivery goes smoothly. The following sections discuss these steps to help deliver your parcel to your recipient successfully.

Identify Your Package’s Destination for FedEx

FedEx implements different guidelines for international and domestic shipments.

Suppose you want to ship packages internationally. You can refer to FedEx’s international shipping guide, accessible on the FedEx website, for instructions to meet the shipping regulations.

If you ship within the U.S., proceed to the following section.

Check Whether Your Items Can Be Shipped With FedEx

Different shipment methods apply to your shipment depending on the item you want to send.

For example, to ship large or fragile items requiring special care, check the shipping service guide on the FedEx website. This guide lists the prohibited and dangerous goods to help you know what items you can ship.

Choose Appropriate Packaging for Your Items Through FedEx

FedEx offers several packaging types, including envelopes, boxes, tubes, and mailers. Use the correct packaging for your items to help protect your shipment. FedEx also offers various packing and shipping supplies for your mailing needs.

Pick Your FedEx Shipping Service

After selecting an appropriate packaging for your items, you must decide which FedEx shipping service you want to use to send your parcel. These services have different shipping rates and timelines. You can calculate the rates based on your destination and preferred delivery speed.

Create Shipping Labels With FedEx

For FedEx to ship your item, you must have a shipping label on your package. Domestic shipping labels usually contain the sender’s and recipient’s names, contact numbers, addresses, and the package’s type and weight.

Declare Whether Additional FedEx Delivery Options and Special Services Are Necessary

Depending on your shipping needs, you must specify any additional services to your shipment and pay the extra cost to help ensure a convenient delivery experience.

Print and Attach Your FedEx Shipping Label

After printing your FedEx shipping label and packing your items, attach the label by placing the side with adhesive backing onto your package. Ensure the barcode is visible so FedEx can scan it for tracking purposes.

Drop Off Your Package at FedEx

Once you have packed your item and attached the shipping label, bring your package to any FedEx Office location or drop box. You can also schedule a FedEx package pickup from your home or office.

FedEx Delivery Times: How Long Does Shipping via FedEx Take?

FedEx delivery hours are usually from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Saturday and Sunday delivery is also available for residential locations except for FedEx Express, which has varying delivery times depending on the service.

Some FedEx services have the following estimated delivery times:

• Same-day delivery
  • FedEx SameDay
• Overnight or next-day delivery
  • FedEx First Overnight
  • FedEx Priority Overnight
  • FedEx Standard Overnight
• Two-day delivery
  • FedEx 2Day AM
  • FedEx 2Day
• Three-day delivery
  • FedEx Express Saver
• One to five business days
  • FedEx Ground

FedEx Will No Longer Let You Do This With Your Packages

According to a 2022 report, FedEx made new service changes that may affect how you track your deliveries. If you frequently track your purchases, these changes may limit how you monitor your shipments. 

FedEx No Longer Allows Customers to Track Packages Through a Popular App

Customers can no longer use the Deliveries app to track their FedEx packages. 

Deliveries is a popular app listed in the App Store as an “Editor’s Choice” program. This app has helped users track their incoming packages from various shipping services.

The App Now Prompts Users to View FedEx Package Tracking Information Elsewhere

In the app’s most updated version, if you enter a FedEx tracking number, the Deliveries app will no longer display the package’s information, such as an estimated delivery date or current location.

Instead, the app will prompt users to open the FedEx website’s tracking page in their web browser to view their shipment’s delivery information.

The App Developer Says It Is Possible Other Companies Will Follow FedEx’s Lead

The app’s developer warned that Deliveries would likely no longer maintain the same service the app used to provide due to FedEx’s decision. Furthermore, other companies may make the same decision as FedEx.

There Are Still a Number of Services From Which You Can Track Packages in the Deliveries App

Aside from FedEx, other shipping companies and postal services have changed their services to exclude the Deliveries app. However, retail services like Apple and Amazon and some companies like United Parcel Services (UPS) and the United States Postal Service (USPS) continue using this app.

How to Contact FedEx Tracking for Package Queries

Suppose you have issues regarding a package’s delivery status. If you are in the U.S., contact FedEx customer service by phone at 1-800-GOFEDEX (1-800-463-3339). If you ship from outside the U.S., call FedEx at 1-800-247-4747.

FAQs

1. What happens when FedEx tracking isn’t updating?

When FedEx tracking does not update, you may need to wait 24 hours for tracking information to change. Tracking delays occur for various reasons, such as when the driver picks up the item but does not scan it immediately.

Consider contacting FedEx customer support if your FedEx tracking information does not update after 24 hours.

2. I can’t find my FedEx username and password. What should I do?

You can retrieve your lost username or password by going to FedEx.com, clicking on “forgot my username or password,” and following the instructions on the page.

3. What does FedEx’s “Delivery exception” mean?

A “Delivery exception” status means your package is undergoing a temporary delay while in transit due to unavoidable circumstances. These situations include adverse weather disruptions, vehicle breakdowns, and natural disasters.

4. What should I do when a FedEx parcel gets stuck in customs?

If your package is held in customs, you can do the following tasks:

• Contact the shipper to check if the parcel has complete paperwork and documents to help speed up customs processing.
• Contact FedEx to ensure all paperwork is complete and all fees are paid.
• Determine whether you have any outstanding taxes to pay.
• Wait for the package to be cleared if you have done everything correctly.

5. What happens when I miss a FedEx delivery?

Suppose the package does not require the recipient’s signature. The delivery person can leave the parcel at the doorstep, at a desired location, or with a neighbor.

What if the shipment requires the recipient’s signature, but the receiver is unavailable? FedEx delivery personnel can leave a note at the door informing the recipient of the delivery attempt and the next possible delivery time.

6. How do I cancel my FedEx shipment?

Follow the steps below to cancel your shipment:

• Access FedEx’s online shipping tool by logging in to your FedEx account or signing up if you do not have one.
• Click “Shipment” on the left navigation bar on the FedEx Ship Manager page.
• Select the three vertical dots next to the shipment you wish to cancel.
• Click the “Cancel” button.

7. Can I track my FedEx package without using a FedEx tracking number?

If you have no FedEx tracking number but want to track your package, you can use the reference number assigned to your shipment instead.

8. How does FedEx delivery work with USPS?

FedEx delivers with USPS through FedEx SmartPost (now FedEx Ground Economy). While FedEx ships your package to the post office nearest to the delivery address, USPS handles the final delivery and brings the parcel to the recipient the next day.

9. Where can I pick up my FedEx packages?

Suppose your parcel is held for pickup at your local FedEx location. The company will notify you via text, phone call, or door tag to inform you that your package is with FedEx and ready for pickup.

10. Why is my FedEx package held in customs?

Some reasons your FedEx packages are delayed during the customs clearance process are as follows:

• Pending instructions from the importer
• Missing information on the clearance document
• Undergoing review by other government departments
• Securing import duty and value-added tax (VAT) to verify the clearance procedure
• Waiting for representation permission

11. How is my FedEx package handled?

FedEx typically handles your package in the following ways:

• First, your package’s shipment data gets transmitted to FedEx. This data contains essential information like what is transported from whom to whom.
• The parcel gets transferred from the package shop to the FedEx station.
• Upon its arrival at a FedEx station or parcel center, the shipment is loaded onto the next means of transport, such as a truck or a plane.
• The parcel leaves the FedEx station and heads to the next facility in the shipping process.
• Depending on the destination, the shipment may pass several stations until it arrives at the local FedEx station where the item is supposed to be delivered.
• Finally, the courier delivers the package to the recipient’s address.

12. What is FedEx SmartPost?

FedEx Ground Economy (previously called SmartPost) is an affordable shipping option for nonurgent, low-weight, and low-value deliveries. This service lets you ship packages up to 70 pounds (lbs) and typically delivers in two to seven business days.

13. How can I track a FedEx SmartPost package from USPS?

You can track your FedEx Ground Economy or SmartPost package the same way you follow a regular FedEx package.

When using a third-party tracking website, enter the FedEx shipment identification (I.D.) number in the tracking section to see your package’s delivery updates.

14. How do I change my FedEx package’s delivery address?

FedEx can process your FedEx package’s address change if you meet the following requirements:

• The address change has no restrictions from the sender.
• The new address is in the same designated country.
• The courier has not yet shipped your package.

15. What is a FedEx air waybill (AWB)?

An air waybill (AWB) is FedEx’s shipping label containing the package’s information, 12-digit tracking number, and barcode. The AWB also contains special handling instructions for your package.

16. Where do I drop off a package to FedEx?

FedEx has several locations nationwide if you prefer to drop off your package instead of having the company collect it.

Locations include the following:

• FedEx Office
• FedEx Ship Center
• FedEx Authorized ShipCenter
• FedEx Drop Box
• Walgreens
• Dollar General

17. Can I arrange for FedEx to collect my FedEx parcels?

You can arrange a FedEx collection in the following ways:

• Contact FedEx customer service for shipments within the courier’s size and weight limitations.
• Contact FedEx’s freight customer service for international shipments exceeding weight and size limits.
• Use FedEx Ship Manager (FSM) for registered customers. FSM is a tool for automating the shipping process for single or multiple packages or freight.

18. How do I schedule a pickup for my FedEx package?

Schedule a pickup for your package through the FedEx website’s pickup page.

You can use FedEx’s online pickup tool if you have an AWB for your parcels. You can also schedule a next-day pickup with a FedEx Express package.

19. How can I schedule a new FedEx package delivery?

Sometimes, the recipient does not receive the package upon its arrival. In this case, the FedEx delivery person leaves a note stating the delivery attempt and brings the item to a nearby FedEx location.

Meanwhile, you can schedule a new delivery online through the FedEx website’s redelivery page.

20. Does FedEx offer free packaging for international FedEx shipments?

FedEx can provide free packaging for your international FedEx shipments, depending on the country. You can choose from a wide range of packaging, AWBs, pouches, and labels to fit your needs at no added cost.

21. How long does it take for FedEx to update tracking?

As mentioned earlier, the time it takes for FedEx to update your item’s tracking information can sometimes take up to 24 hours after generating the shipping label.

22. What is FedEx Design and Print for FedEx Tracking?

FedEx Design and Print is a digital self-service tool that can help you create custom business cards, marketing materials, and letterheads.

You can order online or in-store and ship your items to a nearby FedEx Office location. Expedited delivery within three business days is also available for an additional fee.

23. What is FedEx’s business registration number?

A business registration number has several functions, such as helping the business track its tax obligations, and can vary by country.

For FedEx, one of the codes that help with these functions is the company’s international securities identification number (ISIN), which is US31428X1063.

24. Why does the tracking of my FedEx package not work?

Tracking may not work for your FedEx package for several reasons, such as the following:

• Your package is past due delivery time.
• You may have typed the wrong tracking number.
• The parcel may have been damaged during transit.

25. What happens if my package doesn’t arrive?

If you are the recipient, you can do the following tasks if your package has not arrived:

• Wait 24 hours after the scheduled delivery date.
• Report the issue to FedEx so the courier can search for your package.
• Once FedEx finds your item, the courier reroutes it to you and notifies the shipper after the delivery.
• If the parcel goes missing, FedEx sends a letter regarding the loss. Meanwhile, you can file a claim to receive a refund or replacement.

26. My package from FedEx is overdue based on the delivery time. What should I do?

Suppose the seller sends you a product using a FedEx service with a guaranteed delivery time, but the item’s arrival is overdue. You can contact the seller, who will file a claim to FedEx for compensation.

27. I entered the tracking number but got no results from the tracking software. What should I do?

Your package’s tracking number may not provide the desired results for the following reasons:

• You may have typed the wrong tracking number.
• Tracking information does not instantly appear in the system and may take two days.

28. FedEx Tracking shows that my package got damaged. What does this status mean?

This message means your package may have been damaged during transit. In this case, FedEx will contact the sender and return the package, depending on the sender’s request.

Alternatively, the courier can forward the parcel to the recipient, provided the damage is negligible.

References

1. Total average packages delivered daily by FedEx Express between FY 2016 and FY 2022
   https://www.statista.com/statistics/878354/fedex-express-total-average-daily-packages/
2. FedEx Corp.
   https://www.isin.net/isin-directory/isin-profile/?isin=US31428X1063