FedEx has introduced a new delivery option designed to provide an additional layer of security for high-value and sensitive shipments.
Called FedEx Authenticated Delivery, the service uses QR code authentication to ensure that packages are handed only to an authorized recipient, helping reduce the risk of fraud and theft. FedEx announced the new offering in a Sept. 16 news release.
Under the new process, the recipient at the delivery address must present a QR code to the FedEx driver. The driver then scans and validates the code before releasing the shipment.
The carrier said the service is particularly suited to shipments for which additional security is critical, including luxury goods, electronics, healthcare products, aerospace shipments, collectibles and other high-value items.
A new approach to protecting higher-value shipments
FedEx Authenticated Delivery is also part of the carrier’s broader effort to attract more high-value packages to its network as it looks for additional opportunities to improve profitability.
Package theft remains an ongoing challenge for shippers and delivery providers. The need for stronger shipment security can be particularly significant in industries such as healthcare, where the delivery of critical products can have direct consequences for patient outcomes.
“The future of delivery isn’t just moving packages quickly. It’s about building greater trust throughout the delivery process,” said Neil Gibson, FedEx SVP of global customer experience, in the company’s release.
The new service is available with select eligible FedEx expedited services for certain residential and commercial shipments in the United States and Canada.
For FedEx First Overnight, Priority Overnight, Standard Overnight, 2Day, 2Day A.M. and Express Saver, the additional service costs $20 per package, according to FedEx’s 2026 service guide.
For international package services, with the exception of FedEx International Ground, the charge is $20 per shipment.
Restrictions designed to preserve shipment security
The additional security measures also come with restrictions.
Shipments using Authenticated Delivery are not eligible for address corrections, hold at location or redirect to hold services. According to FedEx, those limitations help preserve the security of the package throughout the delivery process.
Recipients can nevertheless request a temporary hold through FedEx’s vacation hold service.
If a delivery cannot be completed, FedEx may make up to three delivery attempts. After the third unsuccessful attempt, the shipment will be returned to the sender, according to FedEx’s delivery options information.
UPS is also expanding secure delivery capabilities
FedEx is not the only major carrier adding tools designed to improve delivery security.
Rival UPS has expanded its secure-delivery capabilities in recent years through its DeliveryDefense tool. The system considers factors including loss frequency and the number of delivery attempts to predict the likelihood of a successful delivery at a particular address.
For shipments considered to be at greater risk, shippers can use the system to reroute packages to alternative drop-off locations.
With Authenticated Delivery, FedEx is adding another verification step directly at the point of delivery, targeting shipments for which confirming the recipient’s identity is especially important.
