I understand your frustration it took me a bit to find the right person. I'll get you going in the right direction.
You do NOT need to talk to an account rep before sending your test package, in fact...they have changed their business structure somewhat in that new normal accounts do not get account reps. Per Fedex, our accounts will be given a designated rep only AFTER the waiver process has been completed. Don't bother leaving a message for a rep to call you beforehand anymore, its a waste of time and honestly a frustrating wild goose chase.
Here's what you need to do to get started.
Make sure you've established your Fedex account, once you have your account number you can proceed.
Download the
Fedex Packaging Test Application from
this page.
When completing the shipping information, mark it as "Bill to Recipient". Because Fedex requires this process for shipping live reptiles they do not require the customer to pay for shipping. I even got my first shipping charges reimbursed after getting wrong information the first time around from several people. If they give you any grief at the shipping location, have them call Fedex Packaging Services to confirm (1.800.633.7019). I was not provided an account number to bill to, it was not an issue.
Packaging tips...Make sure you secure everything in the box. If you use bags, knot it securely or use zip ties or tape as a secondary reinforcement. They are requiring secondary security on enclosures now. If you are using deli cups, use tape to secure the deli cup lid, the snap tight lids are not enough on their own. Use an H-pattern on both the top and bottom of the shipping box to secure it (across the seam and the side edges). If you do this, you shouldn't have any issues.
I have a pdf
from Fedex called "
Live Harmless Reptile Packaging Guidelines". However, Fedex will not give me permission to republish it here for their own legal reasons. If you want a copy of it, PM me with your e-mail address and I"ll gladly e-mail it to you. I'm still trying to get approval from their legal department to post it here though.
Once they get the test package it takes about 7-10 days to get your results via e-mail. They provide a detailed report including pictures of your packaging results and any issues or suggested improvements with the notification. Again, if you would like to see a sample of the report, PM me. I'm expecting the results on my recent retest in the next day or two. But, I have my failed report from a couple of weeks ago for missing the tape on the deli cup (ugh!).
Hope this helps, feel free to contact me with any questions/issues/etc. I'll help however I can.
Eric
