What is FedEx Ground Economy (FedEx Smartpost) For Businesses?

Virginia Miller

May 18, 2024

In this article

FedEx Ground Economy (FedEx Smartpost) is an excellent option for businesses that want to save on shipping costs. With this service, your packages will be delivered by the U.S. Postal Service, which can help you save on shipping expenses. Here's what you need to know about FedEx Ground Economy (FedEx Smartpost) and how it can benefit your business.

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How FedEx Smartpost Works to Save You Money

FedEx Smartpost is a shipping service that allows businesses to ship packages affordably by utilizing both FedEx and USPS for delivery. It removes the most expensive leg of delivery, the "last mile", by having USPS deliver from FedEx regional facilities to the recipient's door. This article explains what FedEx Smartpost is, its pros and cons, how it works, and how it can benefit your business.

What is FedEx Smartpost?

With FedEx Smartpost, FedEx handles the long distance portion of delivery, while USPS handles the last mile delivery. This allows for significant cost savings compared to standard FedEx Home delivery.

FedEx Smartpost Pros

Lower shipping costs by up to 20%
No residential surcharge
Regular FedEx pickup
Delivers to all USPS addresses including P.O. boxes
Easy integration with shipping software

FedEx Smartpost Cons

Slower delivery time by 2-5 days
No free boxes from USPS
Higher costs for Alaska and Hawaii
Potentially confusing tracking

How Long Does FedEx Smartpost Take?

FedEx Smartpost delivery typically takes 2-7 business days. It may take 2-5 days longer than FedEx Home Delivery since USPS handles the last leg. Plan for at least an extra day to account for this hand off to USPS.

Home Delivery vs Smartpost

The main difference is that with Home Delivery, FedEx handles the entire delivery, while with Smartpost, USPS handles the last mile delivery. Home Delivery is faster but Smartpost is more affordable.

How Can FedEx Smartpost Benefit Your Business?

The cost savings of FedEx Smartpost can greatly benefit your ecommerce business. It allows you to offer free or discounted shipping to attract more sales. The reliable delivery times also provide a good customer experience. Consider Smartpost for cost effective residential shipping.

To learn more about leveraging FedEx Smartpost to save on shipping costs, contact Simpl Fulfillment. We are experts in ecommerce order fulfillment and shipping.

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Recommended: What is FedEx Priority Overnight?

FAQs

What are the main benefits of FedEx Smartpost?

The main benefits are lower shipping costs of up to 20%, no residential surcharge, regular FedEx pickup, delivery to all USPS addresses, and easy integration with shipping software.

How much slower is Smartpost than FedEx Home Delivery?

FedEx Smartpost delivery typically takes 2-5 business days longer than FedEx Home Delivery. This is because USPS handles the last mile delivery.

Can I ship to P.O. boxes with FedEx Smartpost?

Yes, FedEx Smartpost delivers to all USPS addresses, including P.O. boxes.

What are the downsides of FedEx Smartpost?

The main downsides are the slower delivery time, not getting free USPS boxes, higher costs for Alaska/Hawaii shipping, and potentially confusing split tracking.

How does the tracking work with Smartpost?

FedEx tracks the package during transit and hands off to USPS for last mile delivery. You will receive tracking updates from both FedEx and USPS.

Can I schedule a regular FedEx pickup with Smartpost?

Yes, you can have FedEx do regular package pickups from your location just like with any other FedEx service.

Who handles customer service issues with Smartpost shipments?

FedEx handles customer service while they have possession of the package. Once handed to USPS, customer service is handled by USPS.

How can Smartpost save money for my business?

The cost savings allow you to offer free or discounted shipping to attract more sales. It provides reliable delivery times and good customer experience at lower costs.

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