Printer-Friendly FedEx Trade Networks - General FAQs

To find a quick answer to one of the Frequently Asked Questions listed below, click on that question.

General Questions

I'm interested in starting a relationship with your company, what do I need to do?: Please contact Customer Service at 1.800.249.2953.
What commodities can you handle?: Our dedicated employees handle products for many industries including, but not limited to, agriculture, aerospace, apparel, automotive, aviation, chemicals, cosmetics, computer equipment and peripherals, consumer electronics, footwear, food & beverage, forestry products, metals, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. For inquiries regarding a specific commodity, please contact Customer Service at 1.800.249.2953.
Do you handle Hazardous Materials?: It depends on the type of service required. For inquiries regarding a specific service or commodity, please contact Customer Service at 1.800.249.2953.
Do you offer customs brokerage outside the U.S. and Canada?: FedEx Trade Networks offers comprehensive customs brokerage services in North America only. However, we can work with reciprocal service providers in major world trade markets to provide brokerage services outside of the U.S. and Canada. For inquiries regarding a specific service or location, please contact Customer Service at 1.800.249.2953.
How can I attempt to minimize Customs delays?: FedEx Trade Networks regularly works with customers to help minimize Customs delays and transit times. Establishing an account with FedEx Trade Networks in advance of moving freight and providing all necessary documentation will help you streamline processes and potentially avoid unnecessary delays. For more information on how FedEx Trade Networks can help you minimize delays at Customs, contact Customer Service at 1.800.249.2953.
What is a Commercial Invoice?: A Commercial Invoice is a document that contains information required by the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations. This information must be provided to Customs on the entry, entry summary, or withdrawal documentation.
What information is required in a Commercial Invoice?: Typically, the Commercial Invoice is issued by the seller to the buyer and should contain all of the required content identified in CFR 141.86 through 141.89. These regulations are available through Global Trade Data under the Reference section tab. While all of the requirements are important, two of the most common problem areas are missing country of origin data and inadequate invoice descriptions. Invoice descriptions should be precise and detailed, and general descriptions are not normally acceptable. Please review of a CFR 141.86 through 141.89 for more detail regarding the requirements.
Why do I need a Commercial Invoice if the transportation was arranged by the consignee?: The Commercial Invoice is a Customs requirement, not a transportation requirement. When someone is engaged in international trade, Customs requires a Commercial Invoice.
What do you charge for Customs clearance?: Customs clearance charges are based on a number of factors, including entry volume and complexity. To request a rate quote, contact Customer Service at 1.800.249.2953.
Where can I get a rate quote for transportation services?: To request a rate quote, contact Customer Service at 1.800.249.2953.
If I use FedEx Trade Networks' transportation services, can I still use my own customs broker?: Yes, FedEx Trade Networks can work with your designated customs broker. However, using FedEx Trade Networks to provide transportation and customs brokerage services can offer increased efficiencies by helping expedite the movement of your shipments. FedEx Trade Networks can provide ocean, air, or ground transportation, as well as customs brokerage, and FedEx Trade Networks can monitor your cargo every step of the way.
If I use FedEx Trade Networks as my broker, do I have to use FedEx Trade Networks' transportation?: No. FedEx Trade Networks offers full-service customs brokerage regardless of the transportation provider you use. However, using FedEx Trade Networks to provide transportation and customs brokerage services can offer increased efficiencies by helping expedite the movement of your shipments. FedEx Trade Networks can provide ocean, air, or ground transportation, as well as customs brokerage, and FedEx Trade Networks can monitor your cargo every step of the way.
What is the max weight can one piece be that will move on the aircraft?: Maximum weight is based on the weight load of a given aircraft and can vary based on the aircraft lift capabilities.
What is oversize cargo (max in height) for air transportation?: Oversize cargo is defined as cargo with dimensions exceeding 121" L x 84" W x 64" H, which is also the configuration of a lower deck door on a plane.
What is your claims process?: FedEx Trade Networks has an established claims process. For specific question regarding claims, please contact Customer Service at 1.800.249.2953.
What paperwork do I need to send with the shipment?: It depends on the type service being used. To request information regarding a specific service, contact Customer Service at 1.800.249.2953.