How to Handle FedEx Delivery Exceptions Due to Incorrect Addresses

September 27, 2024
by Anthony Robinson

How to Handle FedEx Delivery Exceptions Due to Incorrect Addresses

FedEx, like all shipping companies, requires your package to have a correct and accurate address to reach its intended destination. Unfortunately, incorrect addresses can sometimes cause delivery exceptions, which can delay your shipment. In this article, we’ll go over what delivery exceptions are and what to do when they happen.

Understanding FedEx Delivery Exceptions Due to Incorrect Addresses

Delivery exceptions are notices from the shipping company that there is a problem with your package. These can happen for various reasons, but one of the most common reasons is an incorrect address. When your package is sent out for delivery, if FedEx identifies an issue with the address you provided, they will mark the delivery as “exception” and send you a notification.

It is important to ensure that you provide the correct address when placing your order to avoid delivery exceptions. FedEx offers tools such as address validation to help ensure that the address you provide is accurate. If you do receive a delivery exception due to an incorrect address, you can contact FedEx to update the address and reschedule delivery. It is also important to note that delivery exceptions may cause delays in the delivery of your package.

Common Reasons for Incorrect Address Delivery Exceptions with FedEx

There are many reasons why your package could have an incorrect address, including:

  • The recipient has moved and their address has not been updated.

It is important to ensure that the recipient’s address is up-to-date and accurate before shipping a package to avoid any delivery delays or issues.

How to Avoid Incorrect Address Delivery Exceptions with FedEx

The best way to avoid delivery exceptions due to incorrect addresses is to double-check and triple-check the address information you provide when creating your shipment. Make sure all information is accurate and up-to-date, and consider using FedEx’s Address Validation Tool to help avoid common errors.

Tips for Correctly Addressing Your FedEx Shipments

  • Ensure that the address is written clearly and legibly. Illegible handwriting or smudged ink can cause delays or even result in the package being delivered to the wrong address.
  • Include any relevant delivery instructions, such as leaving the package at a specific location or requiring a signature for delivery. This can help ensure that the package is delivered safely and securely.

What Happens to Packages with Incorrect Addresses?

When FedEx identifies an issue with your package’s address and marks it as “exception,” they will try to contact you using the phone number or email address provided when the shipment was created. They will also attempt to correct the address if possible, or return the package to the sender.

If FedEx is unable to contact you or correct the address, the package will be held at a FedEx location for up to five business days. During this time, you can arrange for the package to be picked up or delivered to a new address for an additional fee. If the package is not claimed within five days, it will be returned to the sender.

It is important to ensure that the address provided when creating a shipment is accurate and up-to-date to avoid any delays or issues with delivery. FedEx also offers address validation services to help ensure that the address is correct before the package is shipped.

Steps to Take When You Receive a FedEx Delivery Exception Notice

If you receive a delivery exception notice, the first step is to review the information provided and determine the reason for the exception. If it’s due to an incorrect address, you can usually correct the issue by contacting FedEx and providing updated information, such as a corrected address or missing apartment number. If the package has been returned to the sender, you may need to have them create a new shipment to the correct address.

It’s important to note that some delivery exceptions may require additional action on your part. For example, if the package requires a signature and no one was available to sign for it, you may need to schedule a redelivery or pick up the package at a FedEx location. Additionally, if the package was damaged during transit, you should contact FedEx to file a claim and arrange for a replacement or refund.

How to Update Your Delivery Address with FedEx

If you need to update your delivery address with FedEx, you can typically do so by contacting them directly via phone or email. Be prepared to provide your shipment information and the corrected address details.

It’s important to note that updating your delivery address may result in a delay in the delivery of your package. FedEx may need to reroute your package to the new address, which could add additional transit time. If you need your package delivered by a specific date, it’s recommended to update your address as soon as possible to avoid any potential delays.

Contacting the Sender or Recipient Regarding Address Correction

If you are the sender and need to correct an address, you can do so by contacting FedEx or by contacting the recipient directly and asking them to update their delivery information. If you are the recipient, you can correct the address by contacting the shipper or seller directly and providing them with your correct address information.

It is important to ensure that the address is correct to avoid any delays or issues with the delivery of your package. In some cases, FedEx may charge an additional fee for address corrections. Therefore, it is recommended to double-check the address before shipping your package. If you are unsure about the correct address, you can use FedEx’s address validation tool to verify the accuracy of the address.

Expedited Shipping Options for Packages with Incorrect Addresses

If your package has an incorrect address and needs to be expedited, you may be able to use FedEx’s rerouting or hold-at-location services to get it to its intended destination faster. These services may come with an additional cost, so be sure to review pricing and availability before selecting an option.

It’s important to note that not all packages are eligible for rerouting or hold-at-location services. If your package is already in transit or has already been delivered to the incorrect address, these options may not be available. In these cases, you may need to contact the recipient and ask them to forward the package to the correct address or return it to the sender. It’s always best to double-check the address before shipping to avoid any delays or additional costs.

How to Track Packages with Delivery Exceptions in Real-Time

If you need to track a package with a delivery exception in real-time, you can do so by using FedEx’s tracking tool. Simply enter your shipment information and choose the “Details” section to view any delivery exceptions and updates.

Remember, the best way to avoid delivery exceptions due to incorrect addresses is to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date when creating your shipment. If you do receive a delivery exception notice, follow the steps above to correct the issue and get your package back on track for delivery.

It’s important to note that delivery exceptions can also occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. In these cases, it’s best to check with the carrier for updates on the status of your package. Some carriers may offer options for rescheduling delivery or redirecting the package to a different address if necessary.

About the Author

Anthony Robinson is the CEO of ShipScience, a pioneering company dedicated to helping e-commerce leaders optimize their shipping decisions, reduce costs, and automate tedious processes. With a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Stanford University, Anthony brings over two decades of expertise in logistics, business development, and operational efficiency to the table.

In 2003, Anthony founded Relectric.com, the first online marketplace for aftermarket industrial electrical parts. Managing logistics for Relectric.com as it scaled to over seven figures in UPS spend provided him with firsthand experience in overcoming complex shipping challenges. This invaluable experience ignited his passion for solving logistics problems and seamlessly transitioned into the creation of ShipScience in 2018.

Since founding ShipScience, Anthony has empowered numerous e-commerce businesses to navigate the complexities of parcel shipping through data-driven insights and innovative solutions. His leadership extends beyond ShipScience, having co-founded and exited Robly.com and served on advisory boards at Ciye and RESA Power, showcasing his commitment to driving corporate growth and enhancing operational strategies.  In 2023, Robinson authored the book Ship Smarter to help scaling businesses manage their logistics challenges.

Anthony is passionate about leveraging technology to streamline supply chains and improve customer experiences in the last mile. When he’s not strategizing shipping solutions, he enjoys connecting with industry leaders, exploring the latest trends in e-commerce and logistics, and spending quality time with his family.

Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn to learn more about his work and insights on optimizing shipping for e-commerce businesses.

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