Have you ever tracked a FedEx package only to see it travel hundreds of miles in the wrong direction? You’re not alone. Many customers have experienced the frustration of watching their packages go farther away from the destination before (hopefully) looping back around. In this article, we’ll explore the main reasons behind this peculiar FedEx phenomenon and provide tips on what to do if your package goes off track.
What Causes Packages to Detour Farther Away?
There are a few key factors that can cause FedEx packages to meander before reaching their final stop:
FedEx’s Hub and Spoke System
Like most major carriers, FedEx routes packages through a network of hubs and spokes. Packages travel from their origin facility to a main hub, then to a hub near the destination before getting loaded on a truck for final delivery. This allows FedEx to consolidate and move packages efficiently, but it means your package may go hours out of the way as it hops between hubs.
Incorrect Sorting at Hubs
As packages speed through sorting machinery at hubs, mis-sorts can occur. A package with a Portland address may accidentally end up on the conveyor belt headed for Philadelphia. Once the error is caught, the package gets rerouted to the proper hub, causing an unexpected detour.
Sticky Shipping Labels
If two packages get stuck together in transit, they may get carried to the wrong hub based on the top label. When the error gets discovered, the bottom package has to be sent back on track to its intended destination.
Human Error
With millions of packages shipping every day, occasional human errors are inevitable. Packages may get placed in the wrong bin, loaded onto the wrong truck, or routed to the incorrect hub. Thankfully, these mistakes are usually caught before delivery.
What to Do If Your Package Goes Farther Away
Don’t panic if you notice your FedEx package backtracking or traveling hundreds of miles out of the way. Here are some tips for dealing with a delayed or detoured delivery:
- Track the package closely to get updates on expected delivery. Most still arrive on time despite odd routes.
- Contact FedEx customer service if concerned. They can investigate issues and reroute as needed.
- Consider picking up the package at a FedEx Office if it gets stuck at a faraway hub for days.
- Request a refund if the package is lost or damaged. FedEx’s money-back guarantee covers failed deliveries.
- Check the address and tracking number carefully to ensure no errors on your end.
- Be patient! FedEx delivers millions of packages daily. Yours may just be taking a scenic route before arrival.
Key Takeaways
While seeing your package traverse the country aimlessly can be disheartening, rest assured there are logical reasons behind FedEx’s meandering tracks. With a vast transportation network moving enormous volumes of parcels each day, occasional backtracking and delays are inevitable. As long as you’ve entered the delivery details accurately, your package should successfully complete its roundabout journey in due time!
