FedEx Shipping FAQ

We're the first multi-carrier shipping platform to offer discounted FedEx shipping through our FedEx Platform Account, giving you more shipping options and lower costs. Here are answers to the most common questions about it.

  Note: Shipments sent from outside the United States don't work with our Shippo FedEx Platform Account at this time.

Which service levels can I access through the carrier account?

You'll have access to:

  • FedEx 2Day
  • FedEx 2Day A.M.
  • FedEx Express Saver
  • FedEx Ground Economy
  • FedEx Ground Returns
  • FedEx International Connect Plus
  • FedEx International Economy
  • FedEx International Priority
  • FedEx Priority Overnight
  • FedEx Standard Overnight

These services are only available for shipments originating in the United States.

Who's eligible for the discounted FedEx rates?

Both new and existing Shippo users.

Do I need to create a FedEx account through Shippo to buy labels under the Platform Account?

No, you don't need to create a FedEx account.

How do I access the discounted FedEx rates?

They show up automatically when you buy a label in the Shippo web app. If you already have your own FedEx account, you'll see both your account's rates and the Platform Account rates side by side.

What is FedEx Ground Economy?

FedEx Ground Economy (formerly FedEx SmartPost) is one of the most cost-effective ways for small and medium-sized businesses to ship small products.

You can ship packages up to 70 lbs. and 130 in. in length plus girth, with transit times of 2-7 business days. It's a great fit for low-value, low-weight, non-urgent orders, apparel, accessories, toys, games, or anything between 1 and 10 lbs.

Most FedEx Ground Economy packages are delivered by FedEx Ground, though some destinations get final-mile delivery from USPS.

 

Important: This service is provided by FedEx, so all parcels must be dropped off exclusively at an authorized FedEx location. Parcels left directly with USPS may be disposed of, and liability coverage will be voided.

Note: Multi-Shipment features aren't available for FedEx Ground Economy shipments.

 

What are the benefits of FedEx Ground Economy?

  • A reliable, cost-effective way to ship low-weight packages to U.S. residential customers
  • 100% discount on fuel surcharges
  • 100% discount on residential surcharges
  • Use your own custom shipping boxes
  • Monday through Sunday shipping (Sunday delivery isn't available everywhere)
  • 24-hour visibility with FedEx tracking
  • Liability coverage up to $100 while the package is in FedEx's possession

Learn more about FedEx Ground Economy.

Why can't I see rates for FedEx Ground Economy?

FedEx Ground Economy has a minimum dimension requirement of 6 in. x 4 in. x 1 in. (L x W x H). If your package doesn't meet it, you won't see rates for this service.

What are FedEx Ground Returns?

FedEx Ground Returns gives you an affordable, speedy 1-5 day return option so you can process refunds faster, save on return shipping, and cut down on customer friction. It's only available for non-residential addresses, returns to residential addresses carry a $5.50 surcharge.

To create a FedEx Ground Returns label:

Select FedEx Ground when creating a label, then choose Create a return label under package options.

Your return label prints automatically alongside your shipping label. Include it in the package so your customer can send items back hassle-free. You won't be charged until a FedEx rep scans the label. And even if you already shipped with a different service, you can still print a FedEx Ground Returns label to keep return costs down.

What is FedEx International Connect Plus (FICP)?

FICP balances speed and cost for international shipments. You can ship to over 190 countries, covering 95% of global GDP, with an average delivery time of 2-7 business days. Typical transit times include:

  • U.S. to Canada: 2-3 days
  • U.S. to Mexico: 2-3 days
  • U.S. to U.K.: 3-5 days
  • U.S. to China: 3-5 days

Like FedEx Ground Economy, packages can weigh up to 70 lbs. and measure 130 in. in length plus girth, making FICP a solid option if you ship smaller items to customers worldwide.

What are the benefits of FedEx International Connect Plus?

  • A timely, cost-effective option for international shipments
  • Day-definite service so customers can plan ahead
  • Customers can add delivery instructions
  • 24-hour shipment tracking
  • 100% discount on residential surcharges
  • Customs clearance included when you create the label

What is FedEx 2Day?

FedEx 2Day balances economy and speed, getting packages to your customers by the end of the second business day. It's a good fit for time-sensitive orders, commercial and residential packages, luxury items, professional documents, and automotive parts.

Packages deliver Monday through Saturday (Saturday service costs extra). In most U.S. areas, commercial deliveries arrive by 5 PM and residential by 8 PM within two business days, in select areas of Alaska and Hawaii, that extends to three business days. Packages can weigh up to 150 lbs. each, with 119 in. length and 165 in. length plus girth (L + 2W + 2H).

Do I have to use FedEx-specific boxes or poly mailers?

No, you can use your own.

  Note: FedEx parcel templates aren't usable with FedEx Platform Account shipments.

 

Are there prohibited items for these service levels?

Yes. Check FedEx's list of prohibited items.

Is package pickup offered for these services?

Package pickup isn't available for shipments created with Shippo's FedEx carrier account. You'll need to drop packages off at a FedEx Office or a certified FedEx drop-off location (like Dollar General). With over 59,000 FedEx locations, finding one nearby is easy.

If your package is picked up alongside personal account pickups, or at a location that offers pickup (including requests made through FedEx's electronic shipping tools or by calling 1.800.463.3339), a $4 per-package pickup surcharge applies.

Can I ship to a FedEx store or retail location for my customer to pick up?

FedEx's Hold at Location service is only available for FedEx International Connect Plus shipments, not for FedEx Ground Economy.

What's the process for filing a claim?

  • File claims for damaged or missing contents within 90 days of delivery (21 days for international shipments).
  • Most FedEx service levels carry a default liability of $100. You can purchase additional liability based on shipment value through XCover in Shippo.
  • To start a claim with our Carrier Claims team, see Filing a claim for a lost or damaged shipment.

Are package intercepts offered for these services?

See Intercepts supported at Shippo for details on intercept capabilities.

Does the FedEx Platform Account support API?

Yes.

Do you offer signature upon delivery?

Yes, two options: Signature Confirmation and Adult Signature Required. Both come with a fee.

Is there a money-back guarantee if FedEx misses the delivery commitment?

FedEx only guarantees delivery for specific service levels. Check the current list of guaranteed service levels. If you need to file a GSR request, see the claims process details.

Is there a charge for Saturday delivery?

No.

Are there rural delivery surcharges?

Yes, and they're already included in your label's rate. We don't currently show a rate breakdown for these surcharges in the web app. Learn more about postal surcharges.

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