How Do I Use a FedEx Drop Box? (A Complete Guide)

One of the easiest and most convenient ways to ship with FedEx is by using their drop box service. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using a FedEx drop box, from locating the nearest one to properly packaging your shipment. So, let’s dive right into it!
How Do I Use a FedEx Drop Box?
Using a FedEx drop box is an easy and convenient way to ship your packages. Here’s how to use a FedEx drop box:
- Locate a FedEx Drop Box: Visit the FedEx website or use their mobile app to find the nearest drop box location. Simply enter your zip code or city, and the website or app will show you the closest options.
- Package your item: Make sure your package is securely packaged and labeled with the recipient’s address and your return address. If you need a shipping label, you can print it at home or at a FedEx location.
- Choose the right drop box: Select the right drop box size for your package. FedEx offers different box sizes, so choose the one that fits your package best. If you have a larger package, you can also use the FedEx Express Saver, FedEx 2Day, or FedEx Standard Overnight boxes.
- Drop off your package: Once you’ve chosen the right drop box, simply drop off your package inside. Make sure the package is in the correct slot, fully inside the box, and that the drop box door is securely closed.
- Track your package: After dropping off your package, use the tracking number on your shipping label to track the status of your package. You can do this online or through the FedEx app. This will keep you updated on the delivery status of your package.
How Do I Find a FedEx Drop Box?
So, now that you know how easy it is to use a FedEx drop box, let’s talk about locating one.
To find the nearest FedEx drop box, you have a few options. One way is to visit the FedEx website and click on the “Locations” tab. From there, you can enter your zip code or city to see a map of the closest drop box locations.
Another option is to use the FedEx mobile app. Simply open the app and enter your location; the app will identify all nearby drop box locations.
Finally, FedEx drop boxes are often located in stores, such as Walgreens, Dollar General, post offices, and FedEx centers. So, if you’re near any of these locations, chances are there’s a nearby drop box.
Can I Drop Packages in FedEx Drop Boxes?
Yes! As long as the package meets the size requirements and is within the weight limit, you can drop packages off at FedEx drop boxes. Just ensure it’s packaged correctly, labeled properly, and that the drop box door is securely closed after dropping off your package.
FedEx Drop Boxes are designed to handle packages up to 20″ x 12″ x 6″ in size and up to 20 lbs in weight. If your package is larger or heavier than this, you may need to use a different FedEx shipping option.
Can I Use FedEx Drop Boxes with Other Services?
Yes! You can use FedEx drop boxes to ship FedEx Express and FedEx Ground packages, as well as FedEx Ground Economy packages.
However, you can’t use FedEx drop boxes to ship SameDay and International Next Flight packages. For these shipments, you’ll need to use a different shipping option.
Are FedEx Drop Open 24/7?
Most FedEx Drop Boxes are available for use 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including weekends and holidays.
However, some FedEx Drop Boxes located inside buildings or gated areas may have limited accessibility outside of regular business hours. In these cases, the Drop Box may only be accessible during the operating hours of the building or gated area.
What Time Are Packages Picked up from FedEx Drop Boxes?
In general, packages dropped off at a FedEx Drop Box before the last pickup time of the day will be collected and processed on the same day. This is usually around 5:00 p.m. local time, but times may vary by location.
If you drop off a package after the last pickup time of the day, it will usually be collected and processed on the next business day.
Which Items Can’t I Ship in FedEx Drop Boxes?
While FedEx Drop Boxes are a convenient and efficient way to ship your packages, there are certain items that are not allowed to be deposited in them. These include:
- Hazardous materials: Any items that are classified as hazardous materials or dangerous goods, including explosives, flammable materials, compressed gases, and toxic substances, are not permitted in FedEx Drop Boxes.
- Illegal items: It is illegal to ship certain items, including illegal drugs, firearms, and counterfeit products. These items are not allowed in FedEx Drop Boxes.
- Live animals: FedEx Drop Boxes are not suitable for shipping live animals, and they should not be deposited in them.
- Cash: FedEx Drop Boxes are not designed to accept cash or other forms of currency. It’s recommended to use alternative shipping options when sending valuable items.
- Fragile items: If you are shipping fragile or delicate items, it’s recommended to use appropriate packaging and to use alternative shipping options that provide additional protection for your package.
Where Do Packages Go Once They’re Picked Up from FedEx Drop Boxes?
Once packages have been picked up from a FedEx Drop Box, they are taken to the nearest FedEx sorting facility. From there, your package will be processed and shipped according to your specified shipping options.
The packages are then loaded onto FedEx planes, trucks, or vans for transport to their respective destinations. Throughout the shipping process, packages are scanned and tracked to ensure they arrive at the correct location and on time.
To track the progress of your package, use the tracking number on your shipping label to view updates on the delivery status of your package. You can also track packages via the FedEx mobile app or website.
Are There Shipping Supplies at FedEx Drop Boxes?
FedEx Drop Boxes do not typically have shipping supplies such as boxes, packing materials, or shipping labels available for customers to use.
That said, some FedEx Drop Box locations may have a limited supply of envelopes or boxes available for purchase, but this is not a guarantee.
Therefore, it’s always best to come prepared with the appropriate shipping supplies to ensure your package is properly protected and labeled for shipping.
Conclusion
Using a FedEx Drop Box to send your packages is an easy and convenient way to get them where they need to go. As long as you follow the guidelines outlined in this guide, your package should be on its way to its destination in no time. Just remember always to bring your own shipping supplies and to make sure that your package is within the size and weight limits. With a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to shipping with ease!