🎆 1. Independence Day: FedEx & UPS Suspend Standard Services

FedEx and UPS both paused most standard delivery services on July 4 in observance of the U.S. Independence Day holiday.

• FedEx closed all services, including Ground, Express, Freight, and Home Delivery, with only Custom Critical available for urgent shipments.

• UPS mirrored the closure, except for some UPS Store locations that may have limited hours.

Takeaway: If you’re a business, make sure to account for courier holidays in your shipping timelines to avoid delays.

📦 2. FedEx Secures Long-Term Amazon Deal for Rural Deliveries

In a major move earlier this year, FedEx signed a multi-year contract with Amazon to handle bulky package deliveries, especially to rural and underserved areas.

“We believe rural and heavy shipments are long-term profitable segments,” said FedEx executives.

This deal gives FedEx a larger share of Amazon's shipping volume, especially as Amazon shifts some responsibilities away from UPS.

📉 3. UPS Loses Volume as Amazon Realigns Shipping Strategy

While FedEx gains ground, UPS is reportedly losing volume from Amazon, particularly for oversized and rural deliveries. Amazon is seeking cost-effective, flexible logistics partners, and FedEx is stepping in.

🔍 4. What It Means for Businesses & Consumers

With these recent changes, here's what to expect:

• Shipping delays around holidays like July 4 are common, so plan ahead.

• Amazon Prime customers may see more FedEx drivers at their doors, especially in rural ZIP codes.

• Business shippers working with Amazon or FedEx should evaluate cost structures for oversized deliveries.