What a FedEx Freight pickup request does
A FedEx Freight pickup request tells FedEx to send a truck to your location to collect a shipment you have ready. You do not drive to a terminal — the driver comes to you, picks up your freight, and takes it to be transported. This works for shipments that are too large or heavy for standard FedEx services, typically anything over 150 pounds or items like pallets, machinery, or construction materials.
The pickup request itself is free to place. You pay for the actual freight shipping when you book, and the driver will collect payment or verify your account at pickup time. The request tells FedEx where you are, what you have, and when you want it picked up — usually within one to three business days of your request.
Key Takeaways
- You can request a FedEx Freight pickup by calling 1-800-463-3339, using the FedEx website, or asking your FedEx account representative if you ship regularly.
- Have your shipment details ready: weight, dimensions, number of pallets or pieces, destination zip code, and what the items are.
- Pickups usually happen within one to three business days, and the driver will call you 30 minutes before arriving.
- Your freight must be accessible to the truck — on a loading dock, in a garage, or in a location where a large vehicle can safely stop.
How to place a pickup request by phone
Call FedEx Freight at 1-800-463-3339 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern time). Have the following information ready before you call: your name and company name, phone number, the address where the pickup will happen, the date and time window you prefer, and details about what you are shipping.
When you describe your shipment, be specific about weight and dimensions. If you have pallets, say how many. If you have loose items, describe them — for example, "three boxes of machine parts, approximately 400 pounds total" is more useful than "some equipment." The FedEx representative will confirm the pickup date and time, give you a reference number, and tell you the estimated freight cost.
Using the FedEx website to request a pickup
Go to fedex.com and look for the "Freight" section. You can create a shipment and request a pickup as part of that process. You will need a FedEx account; if you do not have one, you can create one for free on the site. Enter your pickup location, the destination, and details about your shipment.
The website will show you estimated costs and available pickup dates. Once you confirm, FedEx will send you a confirmation email with your reference number. This method works well if you prefer to handle everything online and want to see pricing before committing to a call.
What information you need to have ready
Before you contact FedEx, gather these details about your shipment: the total weight in pounds, the dimensions of the largest piece or pallet (length, width, height), the number of pallets or pieces, what the items are (this helps FedEx determine handling requirements), and the destination zip code or full address. You will also need your pickup address and your preferred date and time window.
If you are shipping hazardous materials — chemicals, batteries, flammable items — tell FedEx when ready. These shipments have extra requirements and may not be picked up on the same schedule as standard freight. If you are unsure whether your items count as hazardous, describe them to the FedEx representative and they will advise you.
Preparing your shipment for pickup
Make sure your freight is packed securely and labeled clearly with the destination address. If items are on pallets, they should be wrapped or banded so they do not shift during transport. The shipment needs to be in a location where the FedEx truck can safely access it — a loading dock is ideal, but a garage, warehouse, or driveway works if there is room for a large vehicle to stop.
Have someone available at the pickup location during your scheduled time window. The driver will call you about 30 minutes before arrival. If you are not there or the freight is not accessible, the driver will leave a notice and you will need to reschedule the pickup.
What happens after you request a pickup
FedEx will assign a pickup date and time window, usually within one to three business days. You will receive a confirmation with a reference number and the estimated cost. The driver will contact you the day before or the morning of the pickup to confirm they are coming, and again about 30 minutes before arrival.
When the driver arrives, they will inspect the shipment, verify the weight and dimensions, and collect any payment due (or verify your account if you have a FedEx Freight account). They will give you a receipt and a tracking number so you can monitor the shipment as it moves through the FedEx network.
If you ship freight regularly
If you place pickup requests more than a few times a year, ask FedEx about setting up a business account. With an account, you can request pickups online, receive volume discounts, and have a dedicated account representative who can answer questions and help with scheduling. Call 1-800-463-3339 and ask about opening a FedEx Freight account.
Some businesses also arrange standing pickups — a regular schedule where FedEx comes on the same day each week or month. This can simplify planning if your shipping volume is predictable. Your account representative can discuss whether this option makes sense for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a FedEx Freight pickup cost?
The pickup itself is free. You pay for the freight shipping based on weight, distance, and service level. Costs vary widely depending on what you are shipping and where it is going. The FedEx representative will give you an estimate when you place the request, or you can see pricing on the website before you commit.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule a pickup?
Call FedEx Freight at 1-800-463-3339 with your reference number as soon as possible. If you cancel before the driver is dispatched, there is usually no charge. If the driver is already on the way or arrives and you are not ready, you may be charged a pickup fee. Rescheduling to a different date is usually free if done in advance.
Can FedEx pick up from a residential address?
FedEx Freight typically picks up from businesses, warehouses, and loading docks rather than homes. If you need a pickup from a residential address, call 1-800-463-3339 and explain your situation — they may be able to accommodate you, but it depends on the size of the shipment and whether a truck can safely access your location.
What if my shipment is too heavy or large for the scheduled pickup?
Tell FedEx when ready when you place the request, or as soon as you know the actual weight and dimensions. FedEx may need to send a larger truck or schedule a different type of pickup. Providing accurate information upfront prevents delays and extra charges on the day of pickup.
How do I track my shipment after pickup?
The driver will give you a tracking number when they pick up your freight. You can enter this number on fedex.com to see where your shipment is and when it will arrive at the destination. You can also call 1-800-463-3339 with the tracking number if you have questions about your shipment in transit.