Does FedEx Deliver to PO Boxes? (All You Need to Know)
FedEx is a well-known shipping company that offers delivery services to businesses and individuals all over the world. But what many people don’t know is that FedEx also offers delivery services to PO boxes. In this article, we will discuss how FedEx delivers to PO boxes and how you can get your package delivered to a PO box using FedEx. We will also discuss FedEx SmartPost, which is a special delivery service that combines the strengths of both FedEx and USPS.
Table of Contents
Does FedEx Deliver to PO Boxes?
Generally speaking, FedEx does not deliver to PO boxes or addresses that are located within the US. If you try to use a PO Box as an address, you will get a message saying that you are not allowed to do that.
However, some exceptions exist. FedEx and the United States Postal Service (USPS) have a collaboration called FedEx Ground Economy that allows FedEx to deliver packages to PO boxes for the “last mile” of delivery. Delivery to a PO box is available for both domestic and international shipments.
Why Use PO Boxes?
PO boxes are a great option for businesses or individuals who need a secure place to receive their mail and packages without having to worry about theft, vandalism, or other risks that can come with delivery to a physical address. PO boxes are also great for those who want extra privacy and don’t want their packages delivered to their home.
Finally, PO boxes also provide an easy way for friends or family members to send gifts, cards, and other items without having to know the recipient’s address.
Why Does FedEx Not Deliver to PO Boxes?
The reason FedEx can’t put your package in your post office box is that, by law, FedEx is not allowed to walk into a post office and open your box.
When you set up a PO box, you will get a key to the box so that you can access it. The box remains locked to keep it safe from people who should not have access. USPS indeed owns the box, and you just pay for renting it. Only you and the postal worker who put your mail in the box have access. Therefore, FedEx does not deliver to PO boxes to abide by this law.
Are There Cases Where FedEx Can Deliver Packages to a PO Box?
Yes, there are cases where FedEx can deliver packages to a PO box. However, there are some rare cases where a large Post Office is considered competitive. Packages can be delivered to PO boxes for free if you don’t use the PO box number.
For example, instead of using “PO Box 123,” write 505 Main Street #123 (the address of the post office and the box number).
USPS allows FedEx and other companies to deliver to some locations. This is because it costs more money to have a PO box in those locations. Therefore, USPS does not lose money by allowing its competitors to use its services.
What Is FedEx SmartPost?
FedEx SmartPost is a delivery service that combines the strengths of both FedEx and USPS.
The advantages of using FedEx SmartPost include lower delivery costs, the ability to track packages all the way through to their destination PO boxes, and faster delivery times. So let’s take a look at how it works.
SmartPost Cost
The cost of using FedEx SmartPost depends on the package weight, size, and destination. Generally, heavier packages or packages that need to be shipped over a longer distance tend to cost more. FedEx SmartPost also offers discounts for bulk shipments and other special rates.
Generally speaking, FedEx SmartPost rates are more expensive than some of the options offered by USPS.
Service Area
FedEx SmartPost services are available in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. It is also available in Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and APO/FPO/DPO (Air/Army Post Office, Fleet Post Office, and Diplomatic Post Office) addresses. Note that FedEx does not deliver to PO boxes or addresses that are located within the US.
FedEx SmartPost also offers international shipping services to select countries. These include Canada, Mexico, and the UK.
Shipping Times
FedEx SmartPost usually takes 2 to 7 business days to deliver packages. However, the actual delivery time may vary depending on the origin and destination of your shipment, as well as other factors such as weather and holidays.
If you use this service, you will get your Saturday delivery at no extra cost. While FedEx sometimes delivers on Saturday and Sunday, SmartPost does not include Sunday delivery.
What Are the Restrictions to Keep in Mind When Using It?
When using FedEx SmartPost, there are a few restrictions to keep in mind. First of all, packages must be no more than 70 lbs and no greater than 130 inches in length and girth. Additionally, packages must be properly packaged and labeled with a valid street address or PO box.
Finally, some delivery exceptions apply to FedEx SmartPost, and these include not picking up parcels or packages that come from outside the United States. Moreover, FedEx SmartPost does not offer the next services:
Appointment deliveries
Signature proof of delivery
Evening deliveries
Hazardous materials delivery service
Money-back guarantee
Collect on delivery
Which Carrier Can Deliver to a PO Box?
While FedEx does not deliver to PO boxes, other carriers do. USPS offers a variety of services for delivering to PO boxes and is the most cost-effective choice for delivering to a PO box. UPS and DHL Express are also available but tend to be more expensive than USPS.
Final Take
Overall, FedEx does not generally deliver to PO boxes, but there are some cases where they may be able to do so. To ensure that your packages have the best chance of arriving safely and on time, it is important to consider all available delivery options. USPS is typically the best choice for delivering to a PO box due to its cost-effectiveness, service areas, and shipping times. FedEx
SmartPost may also be an option, but the price may be higher, and delivery times could vary greatly. Be sure to familiarize yourself with all applicable restrictions and exceptions when using this service.
Now that you know the difference between FedEx and USPS when it comes to delivering packages to a PO box, you can make the most informed decision when it comes to choosing the best option for your shipping needs.
