You have a small FedEx® package that's ready to be shipped, but you aren't able to drop it off at a FedEx location. Just schedule a one-time pickup. It's easy and convenient. Here is what you need to do to get started:

1. Go to the Pickups page on fedex.com. You can find this page by clicking on Schedule and Manage Pickups in the quick access section of the homepage or under Ship in the top navigation bar.

2. From here you’ll want to log in to fedex.com to access your account. If you don’t currently have a fedex.com account, you can easily register here.

3. Confirm or update your account number in the Account Details section. If you have multiple account numbers you’ll be able to select the one you want to use from the drop down menu.

4. Your account address will be pre-populated in the Pickup Address section. Look it over to make sure it is correct, and fill in any missing information. You can also use a different address by clicking the Change pickup address link at the top of the section.

5. Specify your pickup details like number of packages, ready time, or special instructions in the Package Information section.

6. If you’d like to set up notifications you can also do that by entering your email address in the optional Email Notifications section.

7. Once you’re ready, click Schedule pickup to submit your information.

You're all set! You can also manage your scheduled pickups under the My Pickups tab on the same page. Here you can view, edit, or cancel your pickups in one easy place.

Through an association shipping program managed by PartnerShip, you can receive exclusive discounts on select FedEx services. If you belong to an association we work with, take advantage of our free shipping benefits today. If you’re not sure if you qualify for one of our FedEx small package shipping programs, contact us and we’ll find the solution that’s right for you.

FedEx and UPS rates are increasing in 2020! Make sure you know what to expect so you can mitigate the impact to your bottom line. Our free white paper breaks down where you'll find the highest increases and explains some of the complicated changes you need to be aware of.

We’ve all seen and heard the lost and/or damaged shipment horror stories. Whether it’s a friend’s incident, a YouTube video of a not so careful delivery, or a firsthand experience - there is a definite stigma of damages and losses in shipping. Unsurprisingly, when we asked a group of customers about their greatest shipping concerns and challenges, shipment damages and losses were fourth behind price, “no shipping”, and transit times. However, shipment damages and losses can be preventable if the correct steps are taken to ensure a properly packaged shipment. Believe it or not, there is a large portion of damaged and lost shipments that can be attributed to packaging error rather than freight mistreatment. Below are some tips to keep your shipment in its desired condition: 

1. Packaging – Shipments must be properly packed to ensure damage-free transportation. While there are many nuances to different items that may be shipped, the overall advice we give is to use common sense with packing your specific commodity. You wouldn’t package ball-bearings the same as you would package glassware. Don’t be afraid to spend an extra couple bucks on packaging to ensure you’re not spending more after the fact. Be conscious of your chosen container’s maximum weight capacity, choose quality materials, leave enough room in boxes/containers for cushioning, and properly seal boxes with enough tape. Be mindful of these basic practices and your shipment will be well packaged and protected from normal shipping and handling.
2. Palletizing - The pallet will give the shipment a solid base to sit on and make movement on and off the truck easy and safe. When stacking your pallet, be sure your items sit squarely on the skid with no overhang. Box flaps and corrugations should face up. Make the top surface as flat as possible and secure cartons to the skid with banding, stretch-wrap, or breakaway adhesive.
3. Labeling - To ensure correct and timely delivery, freight needs to be labeled appropriately. Always follow these guidelines:
   • Remove or completely cover old labels.
   • Place labels on each box and each side of the overall shipment.
   • Do not place labels over a seam or closure on top of sealing tape.
   • Place a duplicate form of address information inside the container for added protection.
   • You should always be able to locate a full return address on the shipping label.

Even the best laid plans can go awry, that’s why it’s always a good idea to be well versed in the steps to take if a shipment happens to be damaged or lost. Submitting claims may sound scary, but keeping your cool and following the basic steps of taking pictures, saving the damaged freight, identifying the shipment value, and contacting your carrier or 3PL partner to begin the claims process will keep you ahead of the curb.

It’s always a carrier’s goal to deliver a shipment in perfect condition - no one wants to go through the claims process. But, as shown in this post, a well-cared for shipment while in transit is only half the battle. Packaging and labeling your shipment correctly will help ensure a smooth shipping operation for you and your company.

Dealing with a damaged shipment? Find out what you need to know about filing a freight claim.