Previously, we learned that the last mile or final delivery of packages, regardless of actual distance, is truly where costs add up. Coincidentally, that last-mile varies from a few blocks to 100’s of miles, this is where UPS SurePost and FedEx SmartPost can help. SmartPost is the cost-saving option of ground shipping because it reduces FedEx’s workload by utilizing USPS. It also takes longer to deliver, and while it offers unified tracking, customers still find it confusing.
What is FedEx SmartPost?
FedEx SmartPost is a shipping service that utilizes FedEx’s Ground with final delivery by the U.S. Postal Service. With SmartPost, FedEx delivers packages to the post office closest to the final destination. Then, USPS delivers them to customers, usually the next day.
How does FedEx SmartPost work?
FedEx SmartPost is ideal for shipping low-weight residential packages directly to your customers’ doors. Specifically, package sizes should be a maximum of 70 lbs or 130″ in length plus girth. Fuel surcharges and dimensional weight does apply to FedEx SmartPost packages.
How long does it take for SmartPost to deliver?
Typically, SmartPost takes 2–7 business days based on the distance to your destination (longer time in transit outside the contiguous 48 states). The service days are Monday through Saturday.
The following are not available for FedEx SmartPost:
- Collect on delivery
- Money-back guarantee – Refund Retriever will not be able to get you refunds.
- Declared value
- Signature Proof of Delivery
- Evening or appointment delivery
- Hazardous materials service
Fees and Other Shipping Information
Delivery Area Surcharge
A delivery area surcharge will apply to FedEx SmartPost shipments destined to select U.S. ZIP codes.
| Contiguous U.S | $1.95 per package |
| Contiguous U.S. Extended | $2.45 per package |
| Alaska | $2.45 per package |
| Hawaii | $2.45 per package |
Non-Machinable: $3.20 per package
A non-machinable charge will be applied to any FedEx SmartPost package with one of the following charcteristics.
- Any item with one dimension measuring more than 27 inches.
- Any item with any two dimensions each measuring more than 17 inches.
- Items weighing over 35 lbs.
- Any item packaged in a cylindrical shipping tube.
Package Relabel: $0.70 per package
A per-package surcharge will be assessed on packages that do not conform to specifications that require over label or hand key.
Third Party Billing Surcharge: 2.5% of charges
A surcharge will apply to shipments that are billed to a third party. The surcharge applies when an account unrelated to the shipper, as solely determined by FedEx, is billed as a third party for the shipment. It will be charged to the third-party payer. See the FedEx Service Guide for the definition of a Bill Third Party shipment.
This fee is 2.5% of transportation charges, surcharges, and additional fees. Remember, this does not include duties, taxes, and ancillary clearance service fees.
SmartPost Contract Rates
Remember, shippers are able to negotiate better discounts for SmartPost like any other ground or express service. Be sure to address your base and earned discount levels to match the characteristics of your shipping spend. Contact us at Refund Retriever to have your current shipping spend analyzed to get the best shipping rates possible.
