FedEx Expands “International Service” Network

FedEx Express is nearly doubling its “International Service” network by adding destinations in Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Japan, Luxembourg and Mexico. The parcel giant now offers time-definite, customs-cleared, door-to-door service to 19 countries. Through the service, shippers can receive shipments within one to three days, depending on the origin and destination, FedEx said. “The ‘International First’ expansion highlights the FedEx commitment to serve as a global connector — staying ahead of our customers’ needs by strengthening the network that links them to businesses and economies large and small,” said Raj Subramaniam, senior vice president of FedEx global marketing and customer experience. FedEx has seen sluggish growth in traditional air freight transport, while the priority air service and ocean shipping markets have fared much better. Shippers’ shift toward slower and cheaper transportation services pulled down FedEx Express’s fourth quarter operating margins from 6.5 percent to 4.1 percent on a year-over-year basis.