FedEx provides tracking information for the more than 12 million packages it delivers daily. This system allows customers to keep a close eye on packages as they move from one fulfillment center to the next.
But for as good as this system is, it’s not perfect. For instance, sometimes FedEx’s tracking numbers are reused. When this happens, customers don’t have a clear idea of where their package is. In this article, we’ll share what you need to know about reused tracking numbers!
Does FedEx Reuse Tracking Numbers In [currentyear]?
Some tracking numbers in the FedEx system are recycled after several months or years. When this happens, the Tracking Page may display information from another shipment in [currentyear]. If you suspect that your tracking number is recycled, the best thing to do is wait for the shipping information to update. Failing that, contact FedEx to resolve the issue.
We have even more to tell you about reused tracking numbers, so be sure to check out our entire guide for more useful facts and tips!
What Is a FedEx Tracking Number?
Before we get into talking about FedEx’s reused tracking numbers, it’s important to know what these numbers are and what they look like.
In short, whenever a package is sent through FedEx, it is assigned a unique tracking number and barcode.
Each time the item arrives or leaves a FedEx facility, the barcode is scanned and the item’s location is updated.
FedEx’s tracking numbers are what allow customers to access this location information.
In most cases, FedEx uses 12-digit tracking numbers written in the following format (e.g. 9999 9999 9999). The company also uses 15-digit tracking numbers in the same format.
How Long Does FedEx Retain Tracking Numbers?
Tracking information is available for 90 days after delivery for FedEx Express, FedEx Express Freight, FedEx Ground, FedEx SmartPost, and FedEx Custom Critical shipments.
In other words, customers can review their package’s journey up to three months after receiving the parcel.
How Long Does FedEx Wait Before Reusing a Tracking Number?
Although FedEx’s tracking numbers only remain active for 90 days, the company doesn’t reuse them right away.
In fact, it could be months or even years before FedEx reuses a tracking number.
Unfortunately, it’s impossible to know just how long FedEx waits before reusing a tracking number, as this information isn’t made publicly available.
How Do I Know If I Have a Reused FedEx Tracking Number?
There are a few ways to know if you’re in possession of a reused FedEx tracking number.
First, if you enter your tracking number and see a destination that has nothing to do with your delivery location, there’s a good chance that the tracking number has been reused.
Similarly, you might notice an estimated delivery date that’s already come and gone.
If you notice either of these details, you can be certain that your tracking number has been reused.
What If You Have a Recycled FedEx Tracking Number?
If you’ve determined that you have a recycled FedEx tracking number, you’re probably wondering what you should do next.
After all, old information isn’t going to help you follow your current package.
Luckily, resolving reused tracking numbers isn’t too difficult or complicated. In fact, our first tip is to wait for FedEx’s system to update.
While you may have received a tracking number from a merchant, there’s a good chance that the item hasn’t gotten scanned into the FedEx system.
When this happens, you have a tracking number, but FedEx hasn’t registered it or started moving it yet.
Usually, the item will get scanned within a day or two and the tracking number will update to provide the correct information.
If your tracking information hasn’t been updated within a couple of days, then contact FedEx Customer Service at 1 (800) 463-3339. A representative should be able to resolve the issue.
To know more, you can also read our posts on whether or not FedEx delivers to door, if FedEx delivers to Canada, and does FedEx Ground has tracking.
Conclusion
FedEx reuses tracking numbers from time to time, although it is unclear how often this happens. Sometimes it could be months, other times it could be years.
This can be very confusing for customers, but in most cases, the issue will resolve itself within a matter of days. However, if the issue persists, feel free to contact customer service and have them track your package for you.
