If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why did my FedEx package stop moving?”, you’re not alone. Thousands of customers experience delays every year, where packages appear to stall in transit with no updates for days. While this can feel frustrating, it doesn’t always mean your shipment is lost.
In fact, most delays are caused by common, temporary issues such as weather conditions, customs clearance checks, or transfer delays between facilities. By understanding how FedEx’s tracking system works and what might be holding up your package, you’ll be better prepared to handle the situation calmly and proactively.
How FedEx Tracking Works
The Scanning Process Explained
Each FedEx package goes through multiple checkpoints where it’s scanned. These scans provide the updates you see online, such as “In Transit”, “At FedEx Location”, or “Out for Delivery.”
Why Tracking Updates May Pause
If your FedEx package hasn’t moved, it could simply mean it’s between scanning facilities. Packages can travel long distances by truck, plane, or ship, and during that time, they may not generate updates until the next scan is recorded.
Common Reasons Why a FedEx Package Stops Moving
Weather-Related Disruptions
Severe storms, hurricanes, floods, or snow can ground flights and delay trucks. Safety takes priority, so bad weather often means shipments are temporarily held.
Customs Clearance Delays
If you’re shipping internationally, customs can slow things down. Missing paperwork, duty assessments, or inspections can cause your FedEx package to stop moving for several days.
High Shipping Volumes During Peak Seasons
Holidays like Christmas, Black Friday, or Chinese New Year result in massive spikes in shipments. Sorting facilities may become overwhelmed, leading to longer processing times.
Transfer and Hub Delays
FedEx packages often move through multiple hubs. A delay at one hub—due to staffing shortages, mechanical breakdowns, or rerouting—can create a temporary pause in movement.
Mechanical or Technical Issues
Sometimes planes, trucks, or sorting equipment malfunction. In such cases, FedEx must hold packages until equipment is repaired or replacements are arranged.
Is It Normal for a FedEx Package to Not Move for Days?
Why Hasn’t My FedEx Package Moved in 3 Days?
Three days without movement can be frustrating but is often normal. If the package is crossing international borders or moving through multiple hubs, scans may take longer.
Why Has My FedEx Package Not Moved in a Week?
A week without updates usually signals a bigger issue, such as customs clearance, weather disruptions, or rerouting. In such cases, contacting FedEx Customer Service is recommended to check if additional information is available.
What To Do If Your FedEx Package Stops Moving
Contacting FedEx Customer Service
The fastest way to get answers is to call FedEx directly. Provide your tracking number and ask if they can see updates not yet visible on the public tracking system.
Using Third-Party Tracking Apps
Tools like 17Track, Parcel Monitor, and AfterShip track multiple carriers worldwide. They sometimes show more frequent updates than the FedEx site.
Checking for FedEx Service Alerts
FedEx regularly posts service alerts on its official website and social media accounts. If delays are widespread, they’ll usually update customers with estimated recovery times.
How to Prevent Future Delivery Delays
Scheduling Shipments in Advance
If you know you’ll be shipping during the holiday season, plan ahead and send packages earlier. This reduces the chance of your shipment getting stuck in a backlog.
Choosing Alternative Shipping Routes
When available, select express shipping services that use faster and more direct transport routes. This lowers the risk of your package pausing for long stretches.
Logistics Alternatives: GoNest Shipping Solutions
How GoNest Logistics Helps Avoid Disruptions
While FedEx is a trusted global carrier, businesses sometimes need backup options. GoNest Logistics offers international shipping with competitive pricing and reliable transit times, making it a solid alternative during FedEx delays.
GoNest UK Shipping Prices and Options
- By air: £8.70 per shipment + £3.56 for each additional 0.5 kg
- By sea: £43.98 (up to 15 kg) + £3.26 per additional kg
You can explore detailed shipping prices for multiple countries directly on the GoNest website.
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FAQs on FedEx Packages That Stop Moving
How long does FedEx hold packages in transit?
FedEx may hold packages for several days if weather, customs, or clearance issues occur. Most delays resolve within 2–7 days.
Can FedEx packages get lost while in transit?
It’s rare, but it can happen. If your package hasn’t updated for over 10 business days, contact FedEx to open an investigation.
What’s the best way to avoid shipping delays?
Ship early, double-check paperwork for international shipments, and use alternative providers like GoNest Logistics during peak demand seasons.
