What is FedEx OnSite in 2024? Your In-Depth Guide
As our lives get busier, quick and convenient access to services becomes invaluable. Thankfully, FedEx recognizes this need and has developed an innovative solution – FedEx OnSite. But what exactly is FedEx OnSite and how does it work?
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll explore everything you need to know about FedEx OnSite locations in 2024.
The Evolution of FedEx OnSite
FedEx first launched OnSite services back in 2011 by partnering with Office Depot locations. This allowed customers to drop off and pick up packages while running errands.
Since then, FedEx has aggressively expanded the program by linking up with trusted retail chains:
2015 – OnSite launches in Walgreens stores, giving access to over 8,000 new locations seemingly overnight.
2016 – OnSite expands to over 2,000 Dollar General stores, further extending its retail footprint.
2017 – FedEx integrates OnSite into Albertsons, Kroger, Shaw’s and Star Market grocery stores.
And the growth continues. As of 2023, FedEx now boasts over 9,000 OnSite locations across the US. That‘s more than double the number of Walmart and Starbucks stores combined!
How OnSite Compares to Other FedEx Locations
FedEx operates several types of shipping locations. How does OnSite stack up?
FedEx OnSite
- Over 9,000 retail-based locations
- Offers package pickup, dropoff, holds, and redirects
- No packaging supplies or full shipping services
FedEx Office
- About 1,900 locations nationwide
- Full shipping services like packaging, printing, and mailbox rentals
FedEx Ship Centers
- Approximately 500 shipping centers
- Extra services like custom packaging and freight shipping
OnSite provides easy access to basic shipping needs without going too far out of your way. But for more advanced services, a FedEx Office or Ship Center is better equipped.
How Do FedEx OnSite Locations Work?
The OnSite process is simple. Just follow these steps:
Enter the retail store and look for the FedEx signage. This indicates OnSite services.
Head to the designated FedEx area, usually near the front entrance. If unsure, ask an employee.
At the FedEx counter, you can drop off pre-labeled packages, pick up packages sent to the store address, or request package holds and redirects.
To redirect a package, enroll in FedEx Delivery Manager. Change the delivery to your chosen OnSite location.
Get an email or text when your package is ready for pickup at the store. Then retrieve it at your convenience!
It‘s that easy. OnSite handles your basic shipping tasks so you can focus on checking items off your to-do list.
What Shipping Services Are Offered?
OnSite locations support:
- Dropoffs – Pre-labeled packages from any carrier
- Pickups – Packages addressed to the store location
- Returns – Items with pre-printed return labels
- Redirects – Send packages to the store for later pickup
However, full shipping services like packing supplies, printing labels, freight, etc. are not provided.
What Items Are Restricted or Not Allowed?
Since OnSite has limited staffing and resources compared to other FedEx locations, certain items cannot be accepted:
- Hazardous materials
- Unsecured or improperly packed shipments
- New shipments needing packaging
Essentially, you must bring "ready-to-ship" packages that require no additional preparation onsite.
Can I Return Packages at OnSite?
Yes, OnSite gladly accepts package returns if the item has a pre-printed return label. Some locations can also print the return label onsite if you have a QR code or barcode.
Just hand the coded return to the staff and they‘ll scan and print the label for you. Easy peasy!
Does OnSite Provide Packaging Supplies?
Unfortunately, most OnSite locations do not stock basic shipping supplies like boxes, envelopes, or tape.
You‘ll need to bring pre-packaged shipments. If packaging help is needed, visit a nearby FedEx Office instead.
Are There Extra Fees to Use FedEx OnSite?
Nope! There are no additional costs, membership requirements or other hidden fees.
You‘ll simply pay normal FedEx shipping rates based on the service you selected. OnSite just gives you quick, no-detour access.
The Pros and Cons of FedEx OnSite
Based on my analysis, here are the key advantages and disadvantages of using FedEx OnSite locations:
Pros
- Convenient access to FedEx without going out of your way
- Package pickup while running errands saves an extra trip
- Hold packages safely until you can pick them up
- Redirect deliveries to your schedule
Cons
- Limited services compared to FedEx Office or Ship Centers
- No packaging supplies provided
- Staff may have less shipping expertise than other locations
- Peak hours could have longer wait times
Overall, the convenience factor of OnSite makes it a great option for quick shipping tasks. But for more complex needs, seek out other FedEx locations.
The Bottom Line
| Service | OnSite | Not OnSite |
|---|---|---|
| Dropoff Pre-Labeled Packages | ✅ | ❌ |
| Pickup Packages | ✅ | ❌ |
| Holds Up to 5 Days | ✅ | ❌ |
| Redirects | ✅ | ❌ |
| Returns w/ Labels | ✅ | ❌ |
| Full Shipping Services | ❌ | ✅ |
| Packaging Supplies | ❌ | ✅ |
With over 9,000 trusted retail locations and growing, FedEx OnSite offers busy consumers a convenient way to ship and manage packages on their own schedule. No more anxiously rushing to drop off items before cutoff times!
So next time you need to ship a return, redirect a delivery, or grab an order, look for the FedEx OnSite sign at stores you already frequent. OnSite lets you seamlessly integrate shipping into your everyday errands.
