FedEx Tracking Status
FedEx "Delivery Exception" — Common Reasons & Fixes
Typical duration
Resolves within 1-3 business days via retry or pickup
Normal range
Successfully redelivered within 3 attempts
When to worry
Unable to pick up and sender can't wait — contact FedEx to extend the hold period
What It Means
"Delivery Exception" is a generic FedEx status meaning something prevented delivery. The most common causes: no signature available when required, inaccessible address (locked gate, no access to building), weather event, incorrect address, or a delivery attempt where no one was available to receive a package requiring signature.
FedEx typically attempts delivery up to 3 times on consecutive business days before either holding the package at a nearby FedEx location for pickup or returning it to the sender. Most exceptions resolve by the next business day with a successful retry.
What To Do Next
- 1Check the tracking page for the specific exception reason (e.g. 'Customer Not Available', 'Address Not Found').
- 2If address-related: contact the sender to correct the address before redelivery is attempted.
- 3Sign up for FedEx Delivery Manager to authorize signature release or choose a pickup location.
- 4Visit a nearby FedEx location to pick up the package if it's being held — bring ID and the tracking number.
- 5Contact FedEx at 1-800-463-3339 if the exception persists or the stated reason is wrong.
Frequently asked questions
Related Tracking Statuses
Need to Create a New Shipping Label?
Free label maker for USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL. No account required.
Create a Label Free →