FedEx Shipping Instructions (what it is and how it works)
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Sometimes plans change and you can’t receive FedEx at home. Other times, you want to make sure your package is kept in a hidden location so porch pirates can’t get their hands on it.
Whatever the reason, in many cases, leaving delivery instructions for your FedEx driver means the difference between a pleasant delivery experience or a negative one. In this article, I’ll discuss what delivery instructions are and how to leave them.
2022 FedEx Delivery Instructions
Starting in 2022, customers can use the FedEx Delivery Manager tool to update their delivery preferences and leave instructions for couriers. Customers can request specific locations for package deliveries or ask drivers not to ring the doorbell. Most of these services are free; however, requiring delivery times or changing addresses incur charges.
I have a lot more to share with you about FedEx delivery instructions, so be sure to read the entire article!
What are FedEx Shipping Instructions?
Simply put, FedEx delivery instructions are preferences that customers can share to ensure they receive their deliveries when, where and how they want.
More specifically, customers can specify where the package will be delivered (eg, side doors, under awnings). Alternatively, they can ask the driver not to ring the doorbell or knock while the delivery is in progress.
Additionally, these instructions can be set up for a single delivery or saved and applied to all future deliveries.
Finally, customers can add delivery instructions using the FedEx Delivery Manager tool.
How do I add delivery instructions to my FedEx package?
You need to register online for the FedEx Delivery Manager tool to leave delivery instructions for your FedEx package.
Once on the webpage, click the orange “Sign Up for Free” button. You will then be asked for your name, address, phone number and email address.
After entering this information, click the orange “Continue” button.
You’ll then create a user ID, password, and set up a security question, and FedEx will send you a verification code to complete your account setup.
Also, after you set up your account, you will see a dashboard with your upcoming deliveries. That is, click on the package for which you want to leave a description.
From here, you can request a drop-off location, redirect packages to retail locations for pickup, set vacations, and more.
Do I need the FedEx Mobile App to use FedEx Delivery Manager?
While the FedEx mobile app is a convenient way to track your deliveries on the go, you don’t need to own it to use FedEx Delivery Manager.
Instead, Delivery Manager is a web-based service that you can access from a browser on any device.
Do FedEx drivers read delivery instructions?
Here, the answers seem to be mixed.
For example, one FedEx driver pointed out that the delivery instructions are just a request, not a requirement for the driver to follow.
In addition, he gave the example of delivering packages to apartment complexes. While some customers may require packages to be delivered to their door, some buildings do not allow this.
So even if he wanted to, the driver couldn’t follow the directions.
Additionally, another driver mentioned that he will follow delivery instructions as long as it is reasonable and does not pose a safety issue.
However, a third pointed out that the driver may not even see the instructions, as the driver can only see the instructions after scanning a box.
If there are a bunch of packages to deliver, the driver may not take the time to find delivery instructions for each package.
What are the fees for FedEx delivery instructions?
Signing up for the FedEx Delivery Manager service is free.
In this service, several shipping instructions options are also free. That said, here’s a list of all the free services that come with a Delivery Manager account:
- Save preferences
- receive alerts
- track cargo
- Sign packages remotely
- Provide shipping instructions
- FedEx pending pickup
- Redeliver your package
- Apply for leave (up to 14 days)
In addition to these free services, there are some paid options. For example, you can request a specific delivery date and time.
Additionally, an option allows you to choose a time between 5pm and 8pm on the scheduled delivery day for $5.55 per package.
However, another option allows you to choose a delivery time within two hours of up to 7 calendar days after the original delivery date for $11.50 per package.
Additionally, FedEx allows customers to change the shipping address and resend the package to a neighbor, family member or friend for a fee.
Typically, rerouting within 120 miles of the original destination costs $5.55 per package. However, to divert more than 120 miles from the original destination, the fees are as follows:
- $33.50 per pack (delivered one day after original delivery date)
- $22.50 per pack (delivered three days after the original delivery date)
- $14.50 per package (via FedEx Ground or FedEx Home Delivery)
To learn more, you can also check out our posts on whether FedEx scans packages, whether FedEx delivers to PO Boxes, and whether FedEx updates tracking.
in conclusion
FedEx’s Delivery Manager tool allows customers to get their shipments into their own hands by leaving instructions to a local courier.
Using this tool, they can request a delivery location, sign for packages remotely, suspend deliveries, and more.
While drivers may not always see these instructions, it’s worth updating them.
Finally, knowing that your package will be delivered exactly how, when and where you want can turn a stressful experience into an enjoyable one.
