FedEx tracking messages explained

Each one in plain English, with how long it usually lasts and when it's time to do something.

Before pickup

Picked up: Usually hours to 1 day before the next scan.
In FedEx possession: Usually under 24 hours.
Left FedEx origin facility: Next scan within 1-2 days. FedEx says gaps of more than 24 hours are not unusual on long trips.
Arrived at FedEx hub: Usually hours to 1 day.
Departed FedEx hub: Next scan within 1-2 days. Gaps of more than 24 hours are normal on long trips.
In transit: 24-72 hours without a scan is common on long Ground trips.
On the way: Hours to several days, depending on service.
At local FedEx facility: Usually out for delivery the same or next business day. It may wait until the scheduled delivery date.
At destination sort facility: Usually 1 day.

Delivery exception: Usually 1-2 business days.
Customer not available or business closed: Usually the next business day for another attempt.
Shipment exception: Often 1-3 days.
Delay: Commonly 1-3 days.
Operational delay: Often 1-3 days.
Local delay: Usually 1 day.
Weather delay: Often 1-3 days after conditions improve.
Running late: Often 1-3 days.
Pending: Commonly 1-3 days.
Delivery updated: Varies. Check the new date.
Clearance delay: Often 1-5 business days. Longer if documents are needed.

Package not due for delivery: Until the scheduled delivery date, often 1-2 days.
Delivery is held, unable to collect payment: It stays until payment is made.
Hold at location: Until it shows Ready for pickup.
Ready for pickup: It waits for pickup for a limited time.