At Cabrella, we recognize that the ins and outs of package delivery — especially when an unexpected issue arises — can be hard to understand. When it comes to FedEx, one of the most common hurdles encountered is a "shipment exception." 

This term might sound complex, but it's vital to know how your packages are handled when things don't go according to plan. From weather disruptions to address errors, these exceptions can significantly impact delivery time.

This article will demystify FedEx shipment exceptions, teaching you how to manage them effectively and ensure your shipping strategies are as resilient as possible.

What Does Delivery Exception Mean?

A FedEx shipment exception is a notification that indicates your package has hit a snag in its delivery route. Various factors might interrupt the smooth transit of your items. 

Here are some of the most common exceptions you might encounter when using FedEx:

Incorrect or Incomplete Address

One of the primary reasons for a shipment exception is a label with an incorrect or incomplete address. This could mean a missing apartment number, a wrong zip code, or a typo in the street name, all of which can halt delivery until corrected.

Missed Delivery Attempts

If FedEx attempts to deliver your package but cannot because no one is available to receive it, or if there are access issues like a locked gate, the package will be marked with a delivery exception.

Weather and Natural Disasters

Sometimes, factors beyond human control — like severe weather conditions or natural disasters — can disrupt transport routes and delay your shipment. This exception is particularly challenging because it can affect large areas and numerous shipments.

Customs Hold

Customs delays are a common issue for international shipments. If the paperwork is faulty or the package needs to be inspected, it can significantly delay delivery.

Barcode Unscannable

If the barcode on your package becomes smudged, torn, or otherwise damaged during handling, it may not be scannable. This situation can prevent the package from moving forward in the FedEx system until it’s manually addressed.

Label Fell Off

In rare cases, a shipping label might come off the package entirely. Without a label, the package cannot proceed in the delivery process, as there's no way to scan and route it appropriately.

How Does FedEx Communicate Shipment Exceptions?

When a shipment encounters an issue, staying informed is key. FedEx uses several methods to keep you updated on the status of your packages, especially when an exception occurs:

Tracking Updates

FedEx's primary way of notifying you of a shipment exception is through its tracking system. You can check the status of your package anytime online via the FedEx website or mobile app. Any exception will be clearly marked with detailed information about the nature of the issue and the current status of the package.

Email Alerts

If you’ve opted for email notifications, FedEx will send updates directly to your inbox. These alerts can give you a heads-up when an exception is recorded, allowing you to react swiftly.

Direct Contact

For more severe or complex issues, FedEx may contact you directly by phone to discuss the situation and any necessary steps you need to take to resolve the exception.

How Can You Resolve a FedEx Shipment Exception?

Once you know about a shipment exception, the next step is resolving it. Here’s how you can tackle some of the most common shipment exceptions:

Address Corrections

If the exception is due to an address error, you can usually update the address through the FedEx website or by contacting FedEx customer service. Prompt action can help minimize delays.

Arrange for Pickup

For issues like missed delivery attempts, consider arranging for pickup at a FedEx location. This option can be more convenient if you know you won't be available to accept delivery in the near future.

Provide Additional Documentation

In cases of customs holds, the fastest resolution is often to provide the necessary documentation or information that is missing. That might include invoices, permits, or other documents.

Repackage or Relabel

If the issue is due to a damaged or missing label, FedEx may require you to repackage the item and send it with a new label. For packages stuck due to damage or packaging issues, repackaging and resending with padding and sealing may be necessary.

How Does FedEx Handle Lost or Damaged Packages Due to Shipment Exceptions?

When dealing with the unfortunate scenario of a lost or damaged package, FedEx has procedures in place to minimize the impact and address customer concerns.

Filing a Claim

The first step in resolving issues with lost or damaged packages is to file a claim with FedEx. This process can be initiated online through the FedEx claims portal, where you’ll be asked to provide details about the package, the nature of the damage, and the circumstances of the loss.

Supporting Documentation

FedEx may request additional documentation to support your claim. This could include proof of value or purchase, photos of the damage, and any correspondence related to the exception. Having this information ready can speed up the process.

Claim Review and Resolution

Once a claim is filed, FedEx reviews the details submitted against its records of the shipment’s journey. Based on this review, FedEx determines the liability and compensation amount. Claims are typically resolved within five to seven business days, though more complex cases may take longer.

Reimbursement or Replacement

If the claim is approved, FedEx will either reimburse you for the declared value of the package contents or cover the cost of repairing the damaged items. The specific outcome depends on the nature of the shipment and the type of coverage chosen when the package was initially sent.

What Steps Can You Take To Avoid Future Shipment Exceptions?

While shipment exceptions can be disruptive, understanding their common causes empowers you to reduce their occurrence. Consider these strategies to streamline your shipping processes and reduce the likelihood of future issues. 

Additionally, integrating shipping insurance solutions like Cabrella can significantly enhance your ability to manage and mitigate logistics risks.

Verify Address Accuracy

One simple yet effective way to prevent shipment exceptions is to ensure that all addresses are accurate and complete before dispatch. Address verification tools that check the validity and completeness of an address against postal databases can drastically reduce the chances of misdeliveries and returns.

Opt for Appropriate Packaging

Proper packaging protects your goods during transit and ensures that labels remain intact and legible. Use durable materials and secure packing techniques to safeguard your items from damage and prevent labels from becoming obscured or detached.

Stay Updated on Customs

For international shipments, staying on top of the latest customs rules is crucial. Ensure all necessary documentation, such as customs forms and commercial invoices, is complete and attached. This helps avoid delays at border checks and expedites the clearance process.

Use Reliable Shipping Software

Leveraging advanced shipping software can significantly reduce the risk of shipment exceptions. The shipping services at Cabrella integrate seamlessly with major carriers, providing real-time tracking updates and proactive notifications. This allows you to anticipate potential issues and address them before they escalate.

Schedule Shipments Wisely

Plan your shipping schedule to avoid peak times and potential delays. Environmental factors and public holidays in both the origin and destination locations might affect transit times. This foresight can help manage expectations and improve delivery accuracy.

Partner With Cabrella

At Cabrella, we offer more than just shipping insurance; we provide a safety net against common challenges. With features like batch printing, integrated tracking, and proactive risk management, Cabrella equips you with the tools you need to ensure a smooth and efficient delivery process.

Ship With Confidence Using Cabrella

Overcoming FedEx shipment exceptions can be smooth with the right knowledge and tools. Understanding the types of exceptions, how they're communicated, and the steps to resolve them equips you to handle potential disruptions effectively. 

Partnering with Cabrella can further enhance your resilience as you streamline your shipping processes and anticipate potential issues. Our platform offers comprehensive solutions for tracking, insuring, and managing your shipments. 

Ready to simplify your logistics and secure your deliveries? Reach out to Cabrella and experience a new level of shipping efficiency and peace of mind.

Sources:

What Does the “Delivery Exception” Status Mean? | FedEx

Severe Weather Definitions | National Weather Service

Shipping Options | International Trade Administration

Barcodes and Their Applications | Dartmouth Mathematics