Learn how to void a package in FedEx Ship Manager with our step-by-step guide.
Tips for FedEx Shippers

How to Void a Package in FedEx Ship Manager

Published:
July 1, 2024
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Last Edited:
July 11, 2024
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Read time:
9 minutes
Anthony Robison
CEO & Founder
Anthony Robinson
Founder & CEO @ ShipScience

If you have ever had to send a package through a courier service, then you know that sometimes, things don't always go according to plan. You may come to realize that you need to void a package that you have already sent. If you are using FedEx Ship Manager, the process of voiding a package is simple and easy, but there are a few things that you need to know before you proceed.

Why You Might Need to Void a Package in FedEx Ship Manager

Voiding a package means canceling it after it has already been processed and assigned a tracking number. There are several reasons why you might need to void a package in FedEx Ship Manager. It could be that the package was shipped to the wrong address, is missing some important contents, or is going to be delivered later than expected. It could also be an issue with shipping costs. Whatever the reason, it is important to know that FedEx allows you to void a package as long as it hasn't left their facilities.

Another reason why you might need to void a package in FedEx Ship Manager is if the package was damaged during transit. If the contents of the package are no longer usable or the package itself is in poor condition, it may be necessary to void the shipment and start the shipping process over again. It is important to inspect packages upon receipt and notify FedEx immediately if there is any damage to the package or its contents.

Understanding the Voiding Process in FedEx Ship Manager

Before you void a package in FedEx Ship Manager, it is essential to understand the process involved. Voiding a package means canceling the entire shipment, and all the individual packages within it. This action will send a void notification to the recipient, indicating that they should not expect the package. Once a shipment is voided, FedEx will no longer attempt a delivery, and you will need to create a new shipment for the package if you still intend to send it.

It is important to note that voiding a package may result in additional fees or charges, depending on the specific circumstances of the shipment. For example, if the package has already been picked up by a FedEx driver, you may be charged a pickup fee in addition to the cost of the voided shipment. Additionally, if the package has already been processed through a FedEx facility, you may be charged a handling fee. It is always best to check with FedEx customer service or your account representative to understand any potential fees before voiding a shipment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Voiding a Package in FedEx Ship Manager

Now that you have an understanding of the voiding process, let's take a look at the steps involved in voiding a package in FedEx Ship Manager:

  1. Log in to your FedEx Ship Manager account and go to the Shipment History section.
  2. Locate the shipment that you want to void and click on the 'Void' button next to it.
  3. You will then be asked to select a reason for voiding the package. Choose the most appropriate option from the drop-down menu.
  4. Confirm that you want to void the package by clicking on the 'Yes' button.
  5. You will then be issued a confirmation number, which you should keep for future reference.
  6. If you need to create a new shipment for the package, click on the 'Create Pickup' button.

It is important to note that once a package has been voided, it cannot be unvoided. Therefore, it is crucial to double-check that you have selected the correct package and reason for voiding before confirming the void. Additionally, if you have already been charged for the shipment, it may take up to 10 business days for the refund to be processed and reflected in your account.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Voiding Packages in FedEx Ship Manager

Although voiding packages in FedEx Ship Manager is a straightforward process, there are a few common mistakes that you should avoid. For example, voiding a package after it has already been picked up by FedEx will not be successful. It is crucial to void the package before it leaves the sender's premises. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that you select the correct shipment when voiding the package, as you do not want to cancel the wrong shipment by mistake.

Another common mistake to avoid when voiding packages in FedEx Ship Manager is not checking the status of the package before attempting to void it. If the package has already been delivered, you will not be able to void it. In this case, you will need to contact FedEx customer service to discuss your options. It is also important to double-check the package details, such as the recipient's address and the weight of the package, before voiding it to avoid any errors or delays in the shipping process.

How Voiding a Package Affects Your Shipping Costs and Refunds

When you void a package in FedEx Ship Manager, you will not be charged for shipping. However, the shipping label and tracking number that have already been generated will become invalid, and you will have to create a new shipment if you still want to send the package. As regards refunds, you will receive a refund for any shipping costs already paid for the voided package, along with any additional services such as insurance and signature confirmation. The refund may take up to 10 business days to be processed.

It is important to note that if you void a package after it has been picked up by FedEx, you may still be charged for the shipping costs. This is because the package has already been processed and handled by FedEx, and they may have incurred costs in transporting it. In such cases, it is best to contact FedEx customer service to discuss your options.

Additionally, if you void a package that was shipped using a FedEx account linked to a third-party billing system, such as a company or organization, the refund for the shipping costs may be credited to the third-party account instead of your own. It is important to clarify this with the third-party billing system to ensure that the refund is processed correctly.

Top Reasons for Voiding Packages in FedEx Ship Manager

Voiding a package is a rare occurrence, but when it becomes necessary, some reasons are more common than others. Some of the most common reasons for voiding a package in FedEx Ship Manager include an error in the shipping address, missing package contents, a change in the delivery timeline, or wrong shipping dates. Whatever the reason, voiding the package as soon as possible is the best way to remedy the situation.

Another reason for voiding a package in FedEx Ship Manager is when the package is damaged during transit. If the package is severely damaged and cannot be delivered to the recipient, it is best to void the package and start the shipping process again. Additionally, if the package is lost in transit, it is important to void the package and file a claim with FedEx to ensure that the sender is reimbursed for the lost package.

It is important to note that voiding a package in FedEx Ship Manager can only be done before the package has been picked up by the FedEx driver. Once the package has been picked up, it cannot be voided and the sender will need to file a claim with FedEx to resolve any issues. Therefore, it is crucial to double-check all package information before scheduling a pickup to avoid any unnecessary voids or claims.

How to Check the Status of Your Voided Packages in FedEx Ship Manager

If you have recently voided a package in FedEx Ship Manager, you can check the status of the shipment by going to the 'Voided' section of your Shipment History. The voided section will show you all the packages that have been canceled and their current status. This section will also show you any refunds due to you for the voided package.

It is important to note that the refund process for voided packages may take up to 10 business days to be processed and reflected in your account. If you do not see the refund after this time, you can contact FedEx customer service for assistance.

Additionally, if you need to void a package that has already been shipped, you will need to contact FedEx customer service directly as this cannot be done through the FedEx Ship Manager. They will be able to assist you in stopping the shipment and processing any necessary refunds.

Troubleshooting Tips for Common Voiding Issues in FedEx Ship Manager

If you encounter any issues while trying to void a package in FedEx Ship Manager, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem. First, ensure that you are canceling the package before it has left the sender's premises. If the package has already been picked up by FedEx, it cannot be canceled. Also, ensure that you have selected the appropriate package to void, as you do not want to cancel the wrong shipment by mistake. If all else fails, contact FedEx customer service for assistance.

The Impact of Voiding Packages on Your Shipping Metrics and Performance

Voided packages do not reflect positively on your shipping metrics and performance. Voided packages can result in a high number of canceled shipments and lower on-time delivery rates. These metrics can affect your overall shipping performance and may lead to additional fees or penalties. It is essential to void packages only when absolutely necessary and make sure that the packages you send are well-prepared and have accurate shipping details.

Best Practices for Effective Package Management and Avoiding the Need to Void Packages

The best way to avoid the need to void packages is to practice effective package management. This involves taking care in packaging your items, paying careful attention to the shipping details, and being aware of the timelines involved. It is also essential to use the right shipment type for your package, as this can significantly reduce the likelihood of problems arising. Additionally, it is important to keep accurate records of your shipments and their tracking numbers so you can quickly identify any issues that may arise.

Voiding a package in FedEx Ship Manager can be a challenging and stressful process, but with the right knowledge and preparation, it is a simple process. By following the steps outlined in this article and adhering to best practices for shipping, you can ensure that your packages arrive at their intended destinations on time and intact.

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