FedEx Shuts Down Same-Day Delivery: What to Expect

A FedEx spokesperson has confirmed the company’s decision to shut down its SameDay City delivery service. This change is leaving many businesses scrambling to look for another delivery solution. The end of this service is a major setback for shippers who rely on FedEx for same-day deliveries. 

If your business is currently partnered with FedEx for this service, we’ve gathered a comprehensive blueprint for your next steps! But first, let’s look at the most up-to-date information regarding this change. 

The Shutdown of FedEx Same Day City Delivery Service 

FedEx is retiring its SameDay City delivery service on March 31st, ending a decade of operation. The company is prioritizing “other growth opportunities” and will eliminate all positions supporting the service. 

SameDay City offered door-to-door delivery of critical supplies to businesses and residences within hours in over 30 US cities. It served the healthcare and automotive industries, among many others. 

“FedEx Office remains committed to giving small and medium business owners, large commercial customers, and consumers convenient access to expert printing and packing, as well as shipping and returns provided by FedEx Ground and FedEx Express.”

FedEx spokesperson

Further, FedEx is making cuts across its operations due to declining volumes and poor economic conditions. The company announced a reduction of 10% of its officers and directors to become more efficient and agile.

8 Steps For Shippers That Are Transitioning From Using FedEx Same Day Delivery Services

In line with the end of SameDay City Courier FedEx service, businesses must consider other delivery options. Undoubtedly, this is an inconvenience for businesses that rely on the service for their operations. However, this change could allow companies to review and improve their logistics processes. 

Here, we take a closer look at your next steps to ensure a seamless transition from using the FedEx Same Day pickup service to a new service.

1. Assess Your Pending Deliveries

The first step is to assess any pending deliveries you still have with FedEx. This means checking how many deliveries you have left, the delivery dates, and what items are being delivered. 

When assessing your pending deliveries, don’t forget to consider the following:

1. Delivery dates: Check the dates your deliveries are scheduled for and see if you need to make any changes. If the deliveries are set for after March 31st, you’ll need to find another delivery option.
2. Delivery items: Take a look at what items are being delivered. Is there anything time-sensitive or critical to your business operations? If so, you’ll need to find a way to deliver these items as soon as possible.
3. Delivery quantity: How many deliveries do you still have with FedEx? If you have plenty of deliveries left, you’ll need to find a new courier to handle the volume.

Once you assess your pending deliveries, you’ll know how to ensure your deliveries arrive on time without any hiccups. 

2. Ensure Your Deliveries Are Being Handled Properly

After assessing your pending deliveries with FedEx, ensure everything related to delivery operations is handled properly. 

Here’s what you should do:

1. Review your current delivery agreements: Check your current agreements with FedEx to ensure that all your pending deliveries will still be fulfilled.
2. Confirm delivery dates and times: Double-check the delivery dates and times for your pending deliveries to avoid delays.
3. Monitor delivery progress: Keep an eye on all your pending deliveries so you can address any issues quickly. Use FedEx’s tracking tool.
4. Make sure the delivery addresses are correct: Make sure all the delivery addresses for your pending deliveries are correct.
5. Communicate with FedEx: If you have concerns about handling your deliveries, communicate directly with FedEx. 

3. Have a Transition Plan in Place

Now, it’s time to start thinking about transitioning from FedEx to a new logistics provider. You need to have a plan to ensure a smooth transition and minimize disruptions.

Here are a few things to consider when making a transition plan:

1. Identify your needs: Determine what delivery services you require. Do you need same-day delivery, next-day delivery, or international delivery? You will narrow down your options more easily.
2. Research providers: Do your due diligence and research different logistics providers. Don’t forget to compare prices, delivery times, and services offered. Choosing a provider you feel confident can handle your deliveries is essential.
3. Make a budget: Make sure you have a budget for the transition and any ongoing costs associated with a new logistics provider. Choosing a provider with more services may result in higher prices. But it could also offer more benefits in the long run.
4. Negotiate contracts: After choosing a provider, it’s time to negotiate the terms of your agreement. Communicate your delivery needs and any special requirements you have clearly. This is a good time to discuss any potential discounts or promotions they might offer.
5. Test run: Before fully transitioning to your new logistics provider, do a test run to ensure everything runs smoothly. You can address any issues or make changes before fully committing to the new provider.

These steps will help make the transition from FedEx to a new logistics provider smooth. It’s never too early to make a plan, so don’t hesitate to start the process.

Here’s everything you need to know about FedEx rate increases in 2023. 

With rate increases, we dive deep into what a general rate increase is in shipping.  

4. Assess All Previous Integrations 

Many businesses forget to consider the integration aspect when hiring a new courier. Look at how the previous delivery service was integrated into the business’s operations. This includes APIs, e-commerce platforms, internal systems, and more. 

The transition will be a major headache if these integrations are not correctly handled. As a result, delays happen, and the customer experience takes a hit. 

One thing to consider is ensuring all data related to the previous delivery service is transferred correctly to the new provider. Like order information, delivery schedules, and any relevant data the business has accumulated over time. 

Evaluate the new provider’s integrations and see if they are compatible with your company’s current systems.

If your business relied on the FedEx Same Day City delivery service for quick delivery, your new provider shouldn’t offer longer delivery times. That said, inform your customers about the changes, so they know what to expect moving forward.

5. Start Evaluating Alternative Delivery Solutions

Evaluating alternatives and choosing a new logistics provider is critical to ensure your deliveries continue to run smoothly. With the shutdown of FedEx Same Day City delivery service, businesses are trying to find a suitable replacement fast.

One way to go about this is to make a list of potential new providers. Start scheduling calls with them to learn more about their services. Ask for quotes, compare prices, and get a feel for their customer service.

When evaluating alternatives, consider the available delivery options and how they meet your business needs. Some providers offer only next-day delivery, while others have a wider range of options. Additionally, look at the geographical coverage provided by each provider.

It’s also important to ask about the delivery tracking process and the level of transparency each provider offers. Your goal is to choose a provider that offers a seamless transition with the same reliability, speed, and service quality as FedEx. 

6. Choose a Nationwide Courier with Delivery Consolidation Capabilities

Now, it’s time to decide on the best courier for your business. To summarize the steps above, factors like cost, delivery time, coverage area, customer service, technology, and integrations offered by each courier, are all important to consider.

Find a courier that fits your needs and budget. By taking your time and thoroughly evaluating your options, you’ll know you are making the right decision. Remember, this is a big change!

Check out this breakdown of last-mile delivery costs and how to reduce them.

7. Maintain an Excellent Customer Experience 

​​Once you have chosen a new courier, the next step is to ensure they offer an even better customer experience than the Same Day delivery FedEx services within cities. You want your customers to be happy with the change and continue to receive high-quality delivery services.

To do this, take note of the following points:

• Track record of on-time deliveries: Does your new courier have a proven track record of delivering packages on time and in good condition? You will not compromise the reputation of your business by partnering with an unreliable courier.
• Availability of real-time delivery tracking: Customers today expect to track their packages in real time. This gives your customers peace of mind and helps you keep track of deliveries at all times.
• Customer service: You want to work with a courier that has a responsive and helpful 24/7 customer service team. If any issues arise, customers know they will get the help they need, no matter the time of day.
• Flexible delivery options: Does your new courier offer a range of flexible delivery options customizable to your business needs? Whether it’s same-day, next-day, or even weekend deliveries, the courier you choose must accommodate your needs.

Moreover, your customers will appreciate the change and continue to trust you for their delivery needs.

8. Start Onboarding Your New Courier Partner 

The final step is to onboard your new delivery partner. This step is crucial, as it marks the transition from the planning and preparation stages to the actual delivery operations. Onboarding a new courier involves several steps to ensure a seamless transition and delivery process.

One of the best practices in setting up a new courier quickly is giving them all the necessary information, like your business details, delivery addresses, and other relevant information. So your new courier can deliver your packages to the right place, at the right time, and with the right information.

Next, you’ll want to review and establish the processes, procedures, and guidelines your new courier will follow. This includes pickup and delivery times, packing and labeling requirements, and the delivery process. As we mentioned before, make sure your new courier has a robust tracking system in place.

Our technology makes it easy to follow your deliveries in real-time, from pickup to drop-off, on a live map, with accurate ETAs. You get instant delivery confirmations based on your needs. Plus, our couriers can verify package delivery via photo, signature, email, text, or any courier action you prefer.

In addition, be sure to monitor your new courier’s performance and gather feedback from your customers. That is how you’ll improve your delivery process for maximum efficiency and customer satisfaction.

In conclusion, onboarding a new courier requires careful planning, communication, and monitoring. But, with the right steps and preparation, it will be seamless, efficient, and deliver an even better customer experience.

Learn more about how to minimize delivery rate increases.

Top 4 Courier Service Alternatives to SameDay FedEx

Here are our top picks for courier service alternatives to FedEx and UPS:

1. Dropoff 

Dropoff is an innovative last-mile logistics provider that offers same-day delivery. We focus on convenience, reliability, and customer service while providing businesses with an easy-to-use platform to streamline their deliveries. Our services offer easy web and mobile ordering, flexible delivery options, real-time tracking, and transparent pricing. 

If you’re looking for reliable last-mile shipping companies like FedEx, look no further than Dropoff.

2. UPS

UPS is a leading international delivery company that offers same-day city delivery services. With its operations across 220+ countries, UPS makes billions of deliveries yearly and strongly focuses on improving its services for businesses of all sizes. With over $97 billion in revenue, UPS is a great FedEx alternative for your delivery needs.

3. DHL

DHL is a global leader in the courier industry, providing delivery services in over 220 countries with over 1.5 billion deliveries annually. With services like Express, Post and Packet, Freight, Global Forwarding, eCommerce, and Supply Chain, DHL offers more solutions than FedEx, which only provides Express, Ground, Freight, and IT-based logistics services. 

Despite FedEx being the leading courier in North America, DHL may be a great alternative to FedEx and UPS.

4. XPO Logistics 

XPO Logistics is another great alternative to FedEx, offering comprehensive logistics solutions for businesses of all sizes. It comes with XPO Connect, a platform that matches shippers with available transportation. This company serves over 50,000 customers in 32 countries, and its broad range of services, including trucking and brokerage, make it a reliable option for businesses. 

Want more options? Here are the top 8 last-mile companies and startups in the US.

How Dropoff Can Help with Same-Day Delivery

Following FedEx’s announcement to end Same Day FedEx City delivery service, shippers are now searching for a reliable alternative. Dropoff can help fill this gap with our last-mile delivery solutions. 

We offer a customized same-day delivery solution suited to your nationwide business needs. Our user-friendly software lets you place and track orders in real-time, giving complete transparency throughout the delivery process.

Additionally, our trackable digital chain of custody provides added security and peace of mind. Our couriers will verify package delivery through any method of your choice, including photo, signature, email, text, or any other courier action.

Our customizable options and easy-to-use software make us a top choice for businesses needing fast, reliable deliveries nationwide.

Get in touch with a Dropoff expert today and tell us more about your unique logistical needs. 

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FAQs on FedEx SameDay City Delivery Service