Getting packages delivered quickly right to your door is ideal, but it’s not always possible. For example, FedEx might not be able to reach a location for delivery, or a homeowner may not be available to sign for a delivery.
Instead of playing “delivery tag” with FedEx, customers can take advantage of FedEx’s free package hold service. This article will explain how this service works and how long packages are held!
How Long Does FedEx Hold Packages In [currentyear]?
FedEx holds FedEx Ground and FedEx Express packages for up to seven business days as of [currentyear]. After this time, parcels are returned to the sender. Customers can call and ask for an extension on the hold for ten days. To retrieve a package, customers need the tracking number, photo ID, and door tag number.
There’s a lot more to know about FedEx’s package holding service, so be sure to read the rest of this guide!
What Does “Hold At Location” Mean FedEx?
Before getting into how long FedEx holds packages, it’s essential to understand what it means when FedEx is holding a package at a location.
Essentially, “Hold at Location” means that your package will be delivered to a FedEx location or participating retailer, where it will stay until you can pick it up at a convenient time.
That said, participating retailers include Walgreens, Albertsons, Dollar General, and Kroger.
In some cases, customers choose to have their package delivered to a holding location when purchasing the shipping label.
In other cases, FedEx holds packages after a missed delivery attempt.
Can I Tell FedEx To Hold A Package?
Yes, you can tell FedEx to hold a package even after the item is en route. In other words, there’s no need to wait for a delivery attempt to have your package held.
To do so, simply enter the tracking number online, select “Manage Delivery,” then “Hold at Location.”
Here, you’ll also be able to choose the location where you want your package to be delivered.
Then, wait for a notification via text, automated phone call, or email letting you know your package is ready to be picked up.
Additionally, you can use the FedEx Delivery Manager app to request that your package be held for pickup.
With this method, you’ll need to log in and select a convenient location and then receive a QR code for easy package retrieval.
In addition to making a request online or via the app, you can also call 1.800.GoFedEx (1.800.463.3339) to request a package hold.
Moreover, it’s possible to request a package hold when purchasing a shipping label.
In this case, the package will be delivered to a holding location without the recipient having to do anything.
Which Services Does FedEx Hold Packages For?
Package holding is available with FedEx Express, FedEx Ground, and FedEx Home Delivery.
Unfortunately, this service may not work quite as well with the following delivery methods:
- FedEx Priority Overnight
- FedEx Priority Overnight Saturday Delivery
- FedEx Second Day Saturday Delivery
- FedEx Express Saver
These fast, premium shipping services are designed to get your packages to their ultimate destination as quickly as possible.
Because of this, there may not be enough time between your package being sent out, getting through the FedEx network, then going out for delivery to initiate a “Hold at Location” request.
How Does FedEx “Hold At Location” Work?
If you request that your package be held for pickup at a FedEx location, you’ll be notified that the package is ready for pickup.
That said, this notification will come as a text, an automated phone call, or an email. Then, when you’re ready to pick up your package, bring a government-issued photo ID.
However, if your name doesn’t match the name on the package label, you’ll also need to provide the tracking number.
In addition, if the address on your ID doesn’t match the address on the package label, you’ll need to provide an alternative form of ID, which can be any of the following:
- Utility bill
- Insurance card
- Credit card statement
Why Should I Use The FedEx Package Hold Service?
There are a few reasons FedEx customers choose to use the package hold service: security, access, and convenience.
In terms of security, having your package delivered to a secure location means no more parcels being stolen from your doorstep.
When it comes to access, you may not be able to have packages delivered to your door if you’re staying at a temporary address where delivery is restricted for guests.
Alternatively, you may live in an isolated location that typically isn’t on FedEx’s delivery map. In this case, using a package hold is the only means of getting your item.
Lastly, customers choose the “Hold at Location” service because it’s convenient.
For example, if your package requires a signature, you don’t need to worry about running to catch the delivery person before they leave.
What Happens If You Miss The FedEx Package Pickup Window?
As mentioned above, FedEx typically holds packages for seven business days. So, if you cannot get your package within that time frame, a few different things may happen.
First, FedEx will make a final delivery attempt. Or, another is that you’ll be able to extend your hold request for a few more days. Finally, FedEx may return the package to the sender.
To know more, you can also read our posts on whether or not FedEx scans packages, can you use any box to ship FedEx, and does FedEx delivers at night.
Conclusion
FedEx’s “Hold at Location” service lasts for seven business days and is an excellent free service that gives customers more security and convenience.
In some cases, customers can extend the hold period, but this varies from location to location.
