With FedEx busier than ever and porch pirates on the prowl, protecting your shipments is a smart idea. One way to do so is by adding a signature requirement.
When you add this option to your package, FedEx will only hand over the item after someone signs for it. For more information about the indirect signature option, read the rest of this article!
What Is Indirect Signature at FedEx in [currentyear]?
A FedEx indirect signature is an add-on delivery service that requires someone to sign for a package in [currentyear]. This can be the recipient, someone at the delivery location, or someone nearby like a neighbor. Additionally, requesting a package release on the Delivery Manager tool, leaving a signed note, or signing the door tag are also acceptable.
I bet you still have a lot of questions about FedEx’s indirect signature option, so stick around to get the answers!
What Is FedEx Signature Release?
If you want more security on your next FedEx package delivery, adding a signature requirement is a good option.
When you add this option, someone has to sign for the delivery in order for the FedEx driver to release the package. This ensures that the package is safely received, rather than left outside.
If no one is available to sign, then the driver will keep the package in their possession and leave a door tag indicating that a delivery attempt was made.
FedEx offers three types of signature requirements: indirect signature required, adult signature required, and direct signature required.
Packages with the indirect signature option require FedEx to obtain a signature from someone at the delivery location or from someone nearby, like a neighbor or building manager.
Further, adult signature required packages require the driver to obtain a signature from someone at the delivery address who is the age of majority in the destination country.
In the United States, this means obtaining a signature from someone at least 21 years of age. As well, showing government-issued photo identification is required.
However, if no one at the delivery address is eligible to sign, FedEx may reattempt delivery another day or hold the package for pickup.
When it comes to direct signature required packages, someone at the recipient’s address (not necessarily the recipient) must sign for the delivery.
If no one is available to sign, FedEx will either reattempt delivery or hold the package for pickup.
What Is a FedEx Indirect Signature?
An indirect signature is an add-on service offered by FedEx designed to make deliveries more secure.
When you select this option, FedEx will obtain a signature from someone at the delivery address or from somebody nearby, such as a neighbor or building manager.
Alternatively, the recipient can authorize the shipment to be released without anyone present.
This can be done by completing a release on FedEx Delivery Manager or by signing a FedEx door tag (after delivery is attempted).
Is a FedEx Indirect Signature Required?
Adding any signature option to your FedEx delivery is optional in most cases. FedEx will only give this option when the sender requests it.
That said, certain dangerous or high-value items require some kind of signature for release. Examples include the following:
- Firearms
- Hazardous chemicals
- Authorized allowed alcohol shipments
- Pharmaceuticals
If you’re shipping these types of items, it’s best to check in with FedEx about any necessary handling instructions.
How Much Is FedEx Indirect Signature?
At the time of publication, adding an indirect signature to your FedEx package costs $5.90.
However, keep in mind that this is the price for just the signature option, and additional shipping charges will apply.
Can You Leave a Note for FedEx Indirect Signature?
Unlike direct signature required and adult signature required deliveries, a signed note can act as a signature for indirect signature required deliveries.
There are a couple of ways to do so.
For example, you can write a brief note indicating that you’d like the driver to leave the package even if no one is home.
If electing this option, make sure to include the recipient’s name and address, as well as the tracking number.
Also, you can leave a phone number in case the FedEx driver needs to contact you.
While this option works in most cases, be aware that the decision of whether to leave a package is left to the discretion of the driver.
If they can’t find a safe spot for your item, they may reattempt delivery at a later time or hold your package for pickup.
Another option to “sign” for an indirect signature required delivery is to request a package release through the FedEx Delivery Manager tool.
Lastly, if FedEx already attempted delivery and left a door tag, you can sign the tag indicating that you’d like the package released, even if no one is present to sign for it.
What Is the Difference Between FedEx Direct and Indirect Signature?
A FedEx direct signature required package indicates that someone at the recipient’s address must sign for the delivery.
It doesn’t necessarily have to be the recipient, but it does have to be someone present at the location at the time of delivery.
Conversely, anyone at the delivery location or nearby can sign for an indirect signature required delivery.
With indirect signature required packages, it’s also possible to write a note, sign a door tag, or request a package release through the Delivery Manager tool.
Note that these options aren’t available for direct signature required deliveries.
Is FedEx Indirect Signature Available for International Shipments?
FedEx’s signature options are currently available in more than 60 destination countries.
You can find out which delivery options are available for your destination country when purchasing your shipping services online or in a FedEx store.
To know more, you can also see our posts on FedEx Custom Critical, FedEx Home Delivery, and FedEx signature release form.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to add additional security to your next FedEx delivery, then choosing the indirect signature option can provide that extra layer of protection you’re looking for.
At the same time, this option is more flexible than FedEx’s other signature-required offerings. In fact, you can get your packages released by leaving a note, signing a door tag, or requesting a package release through the Delivery Manager tool.
