Does USPS Take FedEx Packages in 2024? Everything You Need To Know

When it comes to sending parcels and packages in the US, both the United States Postal Service (USPS) and FedEx are major players. In 2022, USPS handled over 129 billion mail pieces while FedEx shipped 3.8 billion packages globally. With this massive volume, you may be wondering if you can conveniently use either carrier for your shipments. Can you, for example, drop off a FedEx package at a USPS office?

As a shipping logistics expert with over 10 years of experience, I‘m here to provide insights into the USPS and FedEx relationship. Below I break down what happens when you try to ship FedEx via USPS, legal mailbox access, and expert advice on choosing the best delivery service for your needs.

Here‘s the Short Answer

USPS does not formally accept packages intended for FedEx delivery. However, thanks to a long-standing contract, USPS transports FedEx packages on planes domestically and internationally. On the ground, the partnership has changed – FedEx now handles all home delivery itself, discontinuing the SmartPost service where USPS performed final mile drop-off.

You can technically use old FedEx boxes for USPS shipments, but this is not recommended as it often causes delays and confusion. Additionally, it remains illegal for FedEx drivers to place packages inside your mailbox, which is reserved for USPS only.

How Exactly Do USPS and FedEx Work Together in 2024?

USPS and FedEx have cooperated significantly since 2001 to handle the enormous volume of mail and parcels that must flow across the country and around the globe.

Here are the key components of the current USPS-FedEx relationship:

• Air Transportation Contract: USPS pays FedEx to transport USPS packages by air domestically and internationally. This was renewed in 2017 through September 2024.

• FedEx SmartPost Discontinued: Previously, FedEx used USPS for final mile delivery of small/low priority packages through SmartPost. As of 2021, this service was terminated, and FedEx now handles delivery end-to-end through their Ground network.

• No USPS Handling of FedEx Ground Packages: Unlike with SmartPost, local USPS post offices do not accept or handle any FedEx Ground packages. FedEx drivers deliver these packages directly.

• Mailbox Access: By federal law, only USPS can place items in your mailbox. FedEx must leave packages on your porch or another safe location.

Can You Ship a FedEx Package at a USPS Office?

Based on the above partnership, USPS does not handle FedEx Ground packages meant for FedEx delivery. If you bring a FedEx Ground parcel to a local post office, they legally cannot accept it.

Your options are:

• Find an authorized FedEx collection box or drop-off location for FedEx Ground shipments
• Rebox the item in USPS packaging and ship through USPS instead. Remove all FedEx branding.

Of course, scheduling a FedEx pickup from your home or office is another convenient choice for FedEx Ground shipping.

Is Reusing FedEx Boxes for USPS Shipments OK?

While USPS won‘t accept an intact FedEx package, you can reuse an old FedEx box for USPS delivery, with a few caveats:

• Remove or completely cover any FedEx logos, barcodes, and labels
• Know that USPS may refuse it if branded, so have USPS packaging on hand
• Expect delays – up to several days – compared to normal USPS boxes
• Place the FedEx box inside a USPS Priority Mail box if necessary

I don‘t recommend relying solely on reusing FedEx boxes for USPS shipping, since the delays and confusion can frustrate customers. Have standard USPS boxes, envelopes, and packaging on hand for a smoother process.

FedEx vs. USPS Shipping: Making the Best Choice

When it comes to choosing between FedEx and USPS, here are key factors to consider as a shipper:

FedEx

• Faster delivery times for urgent packages
• Later pickup cut-off times
• Stronger tracking and delivery notifications
• More delivery options like evening and weekend
• Higher costs overall

USPS

• Lower cost, especially for lightweight packages
• Better prices for regular/standard delivery
• Ability to ship from blue collection boxes
• Large P.O. box network
• Slower delivery times

Here‘s a comparison of popular FedEx and USPS shipping options:

The Mailbox Law – Keeping Things Legal

There is understandably confusion around whether FedEx can legally place a package inside your mailbox. However, the federal law on mailbox access is clear:

• Only authorized USPS delivery personnel can insert items into mailboxes.

• By law, FedEx and other carriers must deliver to your doorstep or other secure location on your property.

• Placing items in the mailbox is a finable offense, even if trying to help the customer!

So if you see a FedEx package in your mailbox, it was likely delivered there illegally, against carrier policy. For true compliance, proper equipment like hand trucks allows carriers to deliver bulky packages directly to your door.

The Takeaway: No FedEx Delivery Via USPS, But Strong Partners Behind the Scenes

While USPS does not directly handle FedEx packages, the two organizations continue working closely to transport billions of mail pieces and parcels around the globe each year.

FedEx‘s vast air network complements USPS‘s expansive local infrastructure, together enabling the speedy and affordable movement of goods worldwide.

So rest assured that regardless of which carrier you choose for shipping, your package will likely end up on a combined FedEx and USPS route at some point along its journey.