Key points:
- FedEx Smartpost has been renamed FedEx Economy Ground
- Ideal for shipping smaller packages to residential customers who don't need their orders ASAP
- Easyship can help you find a shipping solution that fits your budget and customers love
Are you looking for an affordable tracked shipping option? This article breaks down FedEx Smartpost delivery time, tracking, who actually delivers the packages and what is not available through the service.
What is Fedex Smart Post?
Fedex Smartpost is a cost-effective shipping option for scaling online businesses. Now rebranded as Fedex Ground Economy, it's ideal for low-weight, low value and low speed shipments. Importantly, while residential surcharges didn't previousy apply to SmartPost shipments, FedEx do now charge them.
FedEx Ground Economy is only available as a contract service. FedEx account holders can begin to use this service once they have signed an agreement, however it is not available to simply book online. If you are interested in the service, feel free to contact FedEx and their employees will guide you through the process.
6 Popular Queries About FedEx Smartpost
FedEx Smartpost can help your online business grow. Checkout this quick breakdown to help you get familiar with the service and its potential:
How Long Does FedEx Smartpost Take?
Transit times usually range between 2-7 business days within the 48 states of the contiguous United States. However, delivery time can increase when shipping to Hawaii and Alaska, or overseas territories.
Delivery days are Monday to Sunday, with Sunday residential shipping coverage for close to 80% of the US population. This shipping service is not known as the fastest that Fedex offer. In fact, as the economy option, it's the slowest compared to other more popular shipping options.
While speed can be important for many customers, some may be happy to wait a few extra business days, especially if you offer free shipping! Fedex home delivery may be faster, but shipping costs can creep up.
How Does FedEx Smartpost Work?
Who actually delivers FedEx SmartPost? Most packages are handled by Fedex ground shipping, however certain destinations will receive delivery services from the United States Postal Service (USPS). Areas that are USPS delivered typically include P.O. Boxes, U.S. territories and Military Mail.
Shipments to all US territories, Military APO, FPO, DPO destinations, Guam, US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico that are handled by USPS will require a Customs Declaration CN 22 Form. Learn how to correctly fill out a customs declaration form with this quick Easyship guide.
Can FedEx Smartpost Be Tracked?
Yes! Fedex smartpost shipments can be tracked, as they are covered like other Fedex Services. You can track a package without an account, or you can use FedEx's advanced tracking dashboard. This tool gives online businesses a personalized tracking dashboard, where you can track multiple shipments, plus the ability to notify customers of their shipment's status.
FedEx Smartpost returns can also help grow your business, by offering customers a convenient tracked return at one of thousands of drop off locations. Once scanned, customers can follow each stage of the return journey, always staying in the loop without any extra work from your end.
Related post: SurePost vs. SmartPost: Which is Better for You?
Weight Limit and Maximum Package Size
The ideal package weight is in the range between 1-10 lbs. However, the maximum weight for a package is 70 lbs. While the maximum length is 130 inches, plus girth. The Smartpost service really comes into its own when shipping smaller individual orders to residential addresses.
Where to Drop Off FedEx Smartpost
You can drop off FedEx Smartpost packages at your local FedEx office, any FedEx retail network location. This includes participating Walmart and Dollar Green stores. For packages up to 20 x 12 x 6, there are thousands of FedEx drop boxes available 24/7 nationwide.
If you have a FedEx account, then you can start scheduling pickups. These scheduled pickups can also be used to ship your returns orders. There is also the option to use recurring scheduled pickups to plan your shipping schedule.
What Features Are Not Available?
FedEx Smartpost offers a range of features that can benefit a growing eCommerce store. Before committing, there are some options that this budget choice doesn't have that may be important for your business:
- Money-back guarantee
- Signature proof of delivery
- Redirects to a FedEx location for holding
- Delivery redirect requests
- Hazardous materials
- Address correction
- Date certain final delivery
- Declared value
Find the Best Carrier for Your Business With Easyship
FedEx Smartpost can help eCommerce stores scale by providing a cost-effective shipping solution for domestic orders, with even Saturday delivery available. However, while some customers may be happy to wait, slow delivery speed is a major drawback.
Free Shipping Rates Calculator: Explore exclusive rates from top carriers, with up to 91% off. Find a cost-effective shipping solution that fits your business and customers love today!
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