How long does it take for a FedEx tracking number to activate?

The FedEx Tracking Number: How Long Until It Works?

You’ve shipped a package with FedEx, you have your tracking number, but it’s not showing any updates yet. How long should you wait before hitting the panic button? The short answer is generally within 24 hours.

After your FedEx shipping label is generated and the package is processed by FedEx, it usually takes approximately one business day for the tracking number to become fully active and display updates within the FedEx tracking system. This timeframe allows FedEx to scan the package into their network and assign it to a specific route.

Keep in mind that this is an average timeframe. Several factors can slightly affect this:

• Time of day the label was created: Labels created late in the day might not be fully processed until the next business day.
• Shipping location and destination: Packages traveling longer distances or across international borders may take a little longer to update.
• High shipping volume: During peak seasons (like holidays), the system may experience a slight delay in processing.
• Package type and handling: Certain package types or special handling requirements might introduce a minor delay in the update process.

What to do if your tracking number isn’t working after 24 hours:

If it’s been more than one business day and your tracking number still isn’t showing any information, there are a few things you can do:

• Double-check the tracking number: Ensure you’ve entered the correct tracking number. Even a single incorrect digit can prevent the system from locating your package.
• Check the sender’s information: Verify with the sender that the package was actually dropped off at a FedEx location and that the tracking number is accurate.
• Contact FedEx Customer Support: If you’ve checked everything and still can’t track your package, contacting FedEx customer support is the best course of action. They can help you investigate the issue and locate your shipment.

In most cases, you can expect your FedEx tracking number to activate and begin providing updates within 24 hours. However, understanding the potential factors that can cause slight delays helps manage expectations and ensures a smoother experience. Don’t hesitate to reach out to FedEx if you encounter any problems.