FedEx tracking status

FedEx “Incorrect address”: what it means

The short answer

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FedEx could not deliver because the address on the label is wrong or incomplete, for example a missing apartment number or a wrong ZIP code. FedEx may try to fix it, and if nobody corrects it, the package can go back to the shipper.

When to act: If tracking shows no new delivery date by the next business day, file a complaint with your full correct address and we send it to FedEx.

What to do now

Compare the address in your order confirmation with your real address, including the apartment number and ZIP code.
Check FedEx Delivery Manager. If the shipper allows changes, you may be able to hold the package at a FedEx location for pickup.
Watch the tracking for a new delivery date. That means FedEx has a deliverable address and will try again.
Save screenshots of your order confirmation and the tracking line. If the address you gave was right, they show the mistake was not yours.
Still not sorted? File your complaint here. We write it with you and send it to FedEx, so you do not have to chase it yourself.

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What does “Incorrect address” mean?

This is a delivery exception reason: the driver or the sorting system found that the address cannot be delivered as written. FedEx lists incorrect recipient addresses, wrong postal codes and missing details such as an apartment number or a buzzer code among the causes of operational delays.

FedEx may hold the package at the local station while it looks for the right address, and it may contact the party most likely able to provide it. Once the address is fixed, tracking shows a new delivery date. If nobody corrects it, the package can end up going back to the shipper.

Why does FedEx show it?

A missing apartment, suite or unit number
A wrong house number or street name
A ZIP code that does not match the street and city
An old address saved in your account at the store
A missing business or building name for a business address
A typo made at checkout

How long does it last?

FedEx usually holds the package for a short time while the address is checked. Once it has a deliverable address, it tries again, often on the next business day. If the address cannot be fixed, the package is returned to the shipper.

Other FedEx statuses

Delivery exceptionKeep an eye on it
Shipment exceptionKeep an eye on it
Clearance delayKeep an eye on it
DelayKeep an eye on it
Delivered but not receivedTake action
PendingKeep an eye on it
Future delivery requestedKeep an eye on it
Delivery updatedKeep an eye on it
On the wayNormal

All FedEx statuses →

Who is responsible for a late or missing package from FedEx?

If you bought it online from a business, the seller is usually responsible until the package is delivered to you. The seller chose FedEx, paid for the shipping and is FedEx's customer, so a late, lost or damaged order is in most cases for the seller to put right, with a replacement or a refund.

If you sent the package yourself, your contract is with FedEx, under the terms in the FedEx Service Guide. FedEx's standard liability is $100 per package, included in the shipping rate, unless you declared a higher value and paid extra for it when you created the label.

Questions about “Incorrect address”

What happens if FedEx has the wrong address?

FedEx holds the package and may try to find the correct address, for example by asking the shipper. If the address is fixed, it delivers, often within a day or two. If not, the package goes back to the shipper.

Can I change the address on a FedEx package myself?

Sometimes. FedEx Delivery Manager lets recipients change delivery for eligible packages, but some shippers block changes once a package is in transit and some options cost extra. The shipper can also ask FedEx to correct the address.

What does 'Address corrected' mean on FedEx?

If you see it, FedEx found and fixed the address, usually after an incorrect address exception, and the package should continue toward delivery with a new estimated date. FedEx does not explain this line on its help pages, so go by the new date.

My address is correct. Why does FedEx say incorrect address?

The label may differ from what you typed, for example a missing unit number or a different ZIP code, or the driver could not match the building. If the address on your order is right, the mistake is not yours: file a complaint on Complain.biz and we send it to FedEx.

Based on

FedEx: Tracking and managing your deliveries
FedEx Canada: Operational delay
FedEx Delivery Manager and Hold for Pickup FAQs
FedEx: What if my customer's package is lost, damaged or missing items?
FedEx Service Guide
FedEx: Declared value and limits of liability