FedEx processes over 5 million deliveries every month across the globe. As you can imagine, customers come across different messages and tracking updates, including “Shipment Exception Cannot Locate Recipient.”
Don’t panic if you receive a “Shipment Exception Cannot Locate Recipient” notice from FedEx. The article below covers everything you need to know and your available options.
Table of Contents
“Shipment Exception Cannot Locate Recipient” Meanning
FedEx states that exceptions indicate unexpected circumstances that prevent the delivery of a package. Some exceptions can include holidays, unavailable recipients, and missing documentation. The “Shipment Exception Cannot Locate Recipient” FedEx message happens when there are issues with the recipient.
The official FedEx website defines the “Exception” status as unexpected events that delay the delivery of a package. Some exceptions can include:
- Customs issues
- Holidays
- Employee strikes
- Harsh weather conditions
- The recipient isn’t available to receive the package
- Missing documents
- Security conditions
The “Shipment Exception” status is a catch-all label used to indicate holds on deliveries for unexpected reasons.
Avoid FedEx “Exception” Delays
You can encounter the “Shipment Exception” tracking alert for several different reasons covered above. FedEx recommends keeping the following in mind to avoid “exception” delays:
- Consider holidays, employee strikes, and weather conditions when shipping your order.
- Ensure the recipient is available to receive the package at drop-off.
- Ensure all the shipping documents and information is accurate
Keep in mind that certain exceptions, like customs delays, may be out of your control and the only option is to wait or contact FedEx customer support.
Why Can’t FedEx Locate the Recipient?
The FedEx “Shipment Exception Cannot Locate Recipient” does not mean there was an attempted delivery, and the recipient isn’t available. Instead, “cannot locate recipient” means the recipient’s address wasn’t valid or accurate.
This situation can be frustrating if the address information is accurate or packages have been shipped previously without issue. In these cases, there may be other reasons for the “cannot locate recipient” alert. Some situations that trigger the “cannot locate recipient” alert include:
- The delivery address is missing the apartment number
- The parcel was lost, and FedEx is attempting to find it
- There aren’t enough deliveries in the area to justify drop-off
- FedEx driver’s delaying the delivery
Keep in mind that these situations may be speculation on the recipient’s part. FedEx doesn’t always update customers on order updates and delivery circumstances, causing more confusion. Thankfully, there are still steps you can take to resolve this issue.
FedEx “Shipment Exception Cannot Locate Recipient” Solutions
Don’t panic if you receive a “Shipment Exception Cannot Locate Recipient” alert from FedEx. There are several troubleshooting methods you can use to resolve your issue, and we cover them below.
Contact FedEx Customer Support
The first troubleshooting method is to call FedEx Customer Support and speak with a representative. A FedEx representative will listen to the issue, provide additional information, and work to solve the problem. Ensure you have accurate address information and delivery details to help the process run smoothly.
Use a Different Delivery Address
You can arrange for your package to be dropped off at a different address if you encounter the “Shipment Exception Cannot Locate Recipient” tracking alert. You can select alternative FedEx pickup locations like Walgreens or other available retailers. You may also want to consider a trusted loved one’s address if necessary.
To arrange for a Walgreens pick-up, start by visiting the FedEx Tracking Page and enter your tracking number in the field provided. Afterward, click “Manage Deliver” and choose “Hold at Location.” Be sure to select your closest Walgreens. You’ll receive a notification from FedEx after the package arrives and is ready for pickup.
Pick up the Order Directly
Another method is to pick up the package in person or arrange for the recipient to do the same. In many cases, the package is held at a local FedEx location and is waiting to be delivered once the “cannot locate recipient” alert is resolved.
You can use the online FedEx Location tool to find facilities near you. Simply enter your address in the field provided to show a list of FedEx stores in your area. Afterward, you can call your local FedEx location, inform them of your issue, and organize a pickup time to resolve the problem entirely.
Contact FedEx Customer Support
As mentioned earlier, you may need to contact FedEx Customer Support if you come across the “Shipment Exception Cannot Locate Recipient” tracking alert. Thankfully, there are several options and resources available.
Virtual Agent
You can use the online FedEx Virtual Agent if you encounter the “Shipment Exception Cannot Locate Recipient” notice or require additional assistance. Visit the FedEx Customer Support page and use the chat box at the top of the page to ask a question. The virtual agent will respond with helpful information and resources you can use to solve the issue.
Phone
You can find FedEx Customer Support phone numbers online based on region and issue type. Simply visit the FedEx Customer Support Center page and select your delivery type and region to find available phone numbers. Here are a few numbers to get you started:
- S. Customer Service: 1.800.Go.FedEx or 1.800.463.3339
- S. International Customer Service: 1.800.247.4747
- S. Billing Inquiries: 1.800.622.1147
FedEx states that exceptions indicate unexpected circumstances that prevent the delivery of a package. The FedEx “Shipment Exception Cannot Locate Recipient” tracking alert typically happens when there are address issues with the recipient.
To resolve this issue, contact FedEx Customer Support to speak with a representative. Alternatively, you can pick up the package in person or arrange a different drop-off location, such as Walgreens.