Shipping plays a critical role in the success of eCommerce businesses. Customers expect reliable, affordable options, and finding the right balance between cost and efficiency is essential for small-to-medium-sized businesses. FedEx Ground Economy is a cost effective shipping service designed for non-urgent, lightweight shipments. In this guide, we’ll explore how this service works, its benefits, and how you can integrate it into your business operations.
What Is FedEx Ground Economy?
FedEx Ground Economy is a cost-efficient shipping service tailored for eCommerce businesses. Previously known as 'FedEx SmartPost', it handles lightweight, low-value shipments domestically in the U.S., providing residential delivery across all 50 states.
Although FedEx Ground Economy excludes features like address corrections or declared value, it delivers significant cost savings and reliability for routine shipments.
What Is The Weight And Size Limit For FedEx Ground Economy?
Packages can weigh up to 70 pounds and measure up to 130 inches in combined length and girth. The service is particularly beneficial for businesses shipping high volumes of small, non-urgent goods. Choosing the right FedEx box depends on the weight and dimensions of your parcel.Â
Package Specifications and Restrictions
Packages sent through FedEx Ground Economy must meet the following requirements:
- Weight: Up to 70 pounds
- Size: Maximum combined length and girth of 130 inches
- Best for: Lightweight packages between 1–10 pounds
Excluded services include hazardous materials shipments, declared value coverage, and guaranteed delivery dates. The following options are not available, making the service ideal for businesses shipping straightforward, low-risk items.
Can You Track FedEx Ground Economy?
Yes, you can track FedEx ground Economy. Tracking and Monitoring Shipments is possible for FedEx Ground Economy as it includes robust tracking options that improve transparency for businesses and customers. Delivery times for services like FedEx Ground Economy are influenced by the shipping distance, with longer distances potentially leading to longer delivery times.
- Real-Time Updates: Know where your packages are at all times.
- Customer Notifications: Provide automatic updates on shipment status.
- Advanced Features: FedEx Advanced Tracking lets businesses manage multiple shipments efficiently.
Tracking builds trust with customers, reduces inquiries, and enhances the overall shopping experience.
How Many Days Does FedEx Ground Economy Take?
FedEx Ground Economy packages are typically delivered within 2–7 business days, depending on the distance between the sender and the recipient. Delivery days include Monday through Sunday, providing flexibility for businesses that need to ship during the weekend.
Setting clear expectations with your customers about delivery times helps maintain satisfaction and avoids misunderstandings. For example, include estimated delivery dates at checkout to ensure transparency.
Comparing FedEx Ground Economy With Other Ground Shipping Options
Here’s a comparison table highlighting the differences between FedEx, UPS, and USPS. To illustrate how delivery times and rates can vary, we’ll use an example of a box weighing 8.8 lbs shipped from Rochester, New York, to Chicago, Illinois. The rates provided are approximate and offer a clearer understanding of your options.
| Feature |
FedEx Ground Economy |
UPS Ground Saver |
USPS Ground Advantage |
| Rates |
$11.72 |
$11.64 |
$8.42 |
| Delivery Time |
2 - 5 working days |
3 working days |
2 - 5 working days |
| Size Limitations |
Up to 70 lbs (32kg) |
Up to 70 lbs (32kg) |
Up to 70 lbs (32kg) |
| Shipment Tracking |
Excellent |
Regular |
Regular |
FedEx Ground Economy is ideal for lightweight, non-urgent shipments, while other services cater to faster or heavier deliveries.
How Much Does FedEx Ground Economy Cost?
Here’s a table breaking down the indicative FedEx Ground Economy rate in comparison to other FedEx services:
Shipping From: Rochester, New York
Shipping To: Chicago, Illinois
Box Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 10 in
Box Weight: 8.8 lbs
| Service |
Delivery Time |
Price |
| FedEx Ground® Economy |
2 - 5 working days |
$11.72 |
| FedEx Ground® |
1 - 3 working days |
$17.22 |
| FedEx Express Saver® |
2 - 3 working days |
$18.89 |
| FedEx 2Day® |
2 working days |
$23.08 |
| FedEx 2Day® A.M. |
2 working days |
$36.18 |
| FedEx Standard Overnight® |
1 working day |
$54.27 |
| FedEx Priority Overnight® |
1 working day |
$55.48 |
What Are The Cheapest FedEx Ground Economy Rates?Â
FedEx Ground Economy offers discounted rates that help businesses save money on routine shipments. Key factors influencing these discounts include:
- Volume-Based Savings: Shipping higher volumes often leads to lower per-package costs.
- Pre-Negotiated Rates: Platforms like Easyship provide access to exclusive FedEx discounts.
- Surcharge Exemptions: Residential and fuel surcharges are often waived.
Leveraging these discounts can significantly reduce operating expenses for small-to-medium-sized businesses.
To compare different courier rates and services, check out Easyship’s shipping rate calculator. It’s free!
FAQs
How long does FedEx Ground Economy delivery take?
Delivery typically takes 2–7 business days, depending on distance and location.
Does FedEx Ground Economy deliver on Saturday or Sunday?
Yes, deliveries are made Monday through Sunday.
What are the size and weight limits for FedEx Ground Economy?
Packages can weigh up to 70 pounds and measure 130 inches in combined length and girth.
Will my shipment have delivery tracking?
Yes, tracking is included, providing real-time updates for businesses and customers.
Does FedEx Ground Economy include shipping insurance?
No, declared value coverage is not available for this service.
Is there a time delivery guarantee?
No, FedEx Ground Economy does not offer guaranteed delivery dates.
How can I access discounted rates?
Sign up for a platform like Easyship, which offers pre-negotiated FedEx discounts.
Where can I drop off packages?
Packages can be dropped off at FedEx locations, drop boxes, and partner retail stores.
What are common retail items shipped with FedEx Ground Economy?
Lightweight and non-urgent items like clothing, books, and electronics accessories are commonly shipped.