What Does ‘Shipment Exception’ Mean on FedEx Tracking?
If you frequently use FedEx for shipping, you have likely come across the term “shipment exception” on your tracking page. This message can be alarming and leave you wondering what is happening to your package. In this article, we will explain the FedEx tracking system, go over the common FedEx tracking statuses, discuss what causes a shipment exception, and provide you with the steps you can take to resolve a shipment exception.
Understanding the FedEx Tracking System
FedEx tracking is a system that allows you to keep an eye on your package and its status throughout the shipping process. When you create a shipping label with FedEx, a tracking number is assigned to your package, and you can use it to track its progress. The tracking system is automated, which means that the information is updated in real-time as your package moves through the various stages of the shipping process. The information includes the package’s current location, expected delivery date, and any changes in status.
One of the benefits of the FedEx tracking system is that it provides you with peace of mind. You can easily monitor your package’s progress and know exactly when it will arrive at its destination. This is especially useful if you are sending important or time-sensitive items. Another advantage of the FedEx tracking system is that it allows you to make changes to your delivery options. For example, if you won’t be available to receive the package on the expected delivery date, you can request to have it held at a FedEx location for pickup or reschedule the delivery for a more convenient time.
Common FedEx Tracking Statuses Explained
There are several tracking statuses that you may come across when checking the status of your package on FedEx, such as “In Transit,” “Delivered,” “Out for Delivery,” and “Exception.” These statuses provide you with an overview of the package’s location and status, to offer you ease in tracking. It is important to note that these tracking statuses can change throughout the shipping process. Therefore, monitoring your package regularly can ensure that you stay updated on any changes in its status.
Additionally, FedEx also offers a feature called “Delivery Manager,” which allows you to customize your delivery preferences and receive notifications about your package’s status. With Delivery Manager, you can request to have your package held at a FedEx location for pickup, provide delivery instructions, and even schedule a delivery time that works best for you. This feature can provide added convenience and peace of mind when it comes to tracking and receiving your packages.
What Causes a Shipment Exception on FedEx?
A shipment exception status occurs when a package is held up in transit due to any unforeseen events or issues, such as severe weather conditions, customs holds, delivery attempts made, and failures of passing security measures in place for sensitive objects like hazardous materials or firearms. Other possible reasons for a shipment exception can include an incomplete or incorrect address or the recipient requesting a hold on the package for future delivery.
How to Resolve a Shipment Exception on FedEx
If your package is experiencing a shipment exception, it is important to take action immediately to ensure it is resolved quickly. The first step is to review the tracking information to see if there is specific information about the shipment exception. You can then contact FedEx customer service to get further information or take any necessary steps to resolve the issue. The customer service team will work with you and provide you with the necessary information on how to resolve the issue. In some cases, this may involve sending the package back to the sender, re-routing the package to a new address, or holding the package for pickup at the nearest FedEx location.
It is important to note that shipment exceptions can occur for a variety of reasons, such as incorrect address information, weather conditions, or customs issues. To avoid shipment exceptions, make sure to double-check the accuracy of the shipping address and provide any necessary customs information when shipping internationally. Additionally, consider using FedEx’s delivery options, such as signature confirmation or hold at location, to ensure a successful delivery.
Types of Shipment Exceptions on FedEx and Their Meanings
There are several types of shipment exceptions that you may come across when tracking your package on FedEx, and they may include:
- Severe weather conditions
- Customs holds
- Delivery attempts made
- Failures of passing security measures
In addition to the above-mentioned shipment exceptions, there are a few more that you should be aware of:
- Incomplete or incorrect address: Ensure that all address details are accurate.
- Recipient-requested hold: This can delay the delivery as per the recipient's request.
It is important to keep track of your package and its status, and to contact FedEx customer service if you have any concerns or questions about your shipment.
Importance of Monitoring Your FedEx Shipments Regularly
As mentioned earlier, regularly monitoring your FedEx shipments can help you stay up-to-date about any changes in your package status, ensuring that you are aware of any shipment exception-related issues before they turn into bigger problems. You can do this by regularly checking your package’s tracking information. Another reason why monitoring your FedEx shipments regularly is important is that it allows you to plan ahead for any potential delays or issues. By keeping an eye on your package’s progress, you can anticipate any potential problems and make alternative arrangements if necessary, such as rescheduling a delivery or rerouting your package to a different address.
Additionally, monitoring your FedEx shipments can also help you identify any patterns or trends in your shipping history. By analyzing your past shipments, you can identify areas where you can improve your shipping processes, such as choosing a different shipping method or packaging your items differently to reduce the risk of damage during transit.
What to Do When Your FedEx Shipment is Delayed Due to a Shipment Exception
If your FedEx shipment is delayed due to a shipment exception, it can be frustrating. However, you can take some steps to ensure that the delay is as short-lived as possible. Firstly, contact FedEx customer service to get more information regarding the delay and find out what you can do to resolve the issue. You can also try to set up a new delivery, reroute the package to a more convenient location, or hold it for a pickup at a nearby FedEx location.
Another option is to check if the shipment exception is due to an incorrect or incomplete address. If this is the case, you can update the address information online or through customer service to ensure that the package is delivered to the correct location. It’s also important to note that some shipment exceptions may require additional documentation or clearance before the package can be delivered. In this case, make sure to provide any necessary information or documentation as soon as possible to avoid further delays.
Tips for Preventing Shipment Exceptions on FedEx
To ensure that your packages arrive at their destination on time and without encountering shipment exceptions, there are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Double-check the accuracy of the shipping address
- Provide any necessary customs information when shipping internationally
- Use signature confirmation or hold at location options
- Properly package your items using sturdy boxes and packing materials
- Be aware of special requirements for international shipments
How to File a Claim for a Lost or Damaged FedEx Package Due to a Shipment Exception
While FedEx takes appropriate measures to ensure that your package arrives safely at its destination, sometimes it cannot be avoided if your package becomes lost or damaged while in transit. In such cases, you may qualify for a claim settlement through the FedEx Claims Department. You can file a claim online or through customer service by providing details regarding the lost or damaged package. FedEx Claims may then conduct their investigations and assess the damage to determine if you are eligible for any compensation.
It is important to note that there are certain limitations and exclusions to the FedEx Claims process. For example, FedEx may not be liable for damages caused by natural disasters or acts of terrorism. Additionally, there are specific time limits for filing a claim, so it is important to act quickly if you believe you are eligible for compensation.
How Does the COVID-19 Pandemic Impact FedEx Shipments and Shipment Exceptions?
Like for any other business, COVID-19 significantly impacted FedEx and its shipping operations globally. The pandemic caused severe delays to some packages, leading to additional exceptions in delivery. However, FedEx took certain steps to ensure that the risks have been monitored, their customers informed, and packages shipped out safely. As the situation continues to evolve, it is essential to stay up-to-date on any changes that FedEx may make to its shipping operations or policies to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of packages during the pandemic.
Conclusion
Having a clear understanding of the FedEx tracking system and shipment exceptions can help you resolve any issues that may arise with your package quickly. Additionally, taking steps to prevent shipment exceptions and regularly monitoring your package status during the shipping process can help ensure that your packages arrive on time and without incident.
It is important to note that FedEx has implemented new safety measures to protect its employees and customers during the pandemic. These measures include contactless delivery options, increased cleaning and sanitization of facilities and equipment, and the use of personal protective equipment by employees. These measures not only help prevent the spread of COVID-19 but also ensure that packages are handled safely and with care.
