Short answer: Sometimes one package has to go out as several shipments. We always split a package that contains more than 2 products with a built-in battery, and we generally recommend splitting a package that weighs more than 70 lb, so an overweight surcharge doesn't apply. Each shipment is sent separately, and FedEx may add a surcharge to shipments that were split.
When we split a package
| Reason | What happens |
|---|---|
| More than 2 products with a built-in battery | Required. A single package can contain up to 2 of them, so we split it into separate shipments. |
| Package over 70 lb | Recommended. Splitting it can avoid the courier's overweight surcharge. |
| Package over 150 lb | Required. 150 lb is the maximum for one shipment. |
Devices with built-in batteries
Laptops, phones, cameras and other devices with a lithium-ion battery inside ship under UN3481. A single package can contain up to 2 of these products. If your package has more, we split it into separate shipments, with no more than 2 in each.
This applies to consolidated packages too, so if you consolidate several devices, expect the result to go out in more than one shipment. See "Restricted and prohibited items: what we can ship and what happens if a package is flagged".
Heavy packages
Couriers charge an overweight surcharge on especially heavy packages. Above 70 lb, splitting the package into smaller shipments usually avoids that charge, so we generally recommend it. Whether it saves money depends on the courier and the destination, so compare the options at checkout.
The maximum for any single shipment is 150 lb. See "Weight and size limits for shipments".
What splitting means for your cost
- Each shipment is sent on its own, so each one has its own shipping cost.
- FedEx may add a surcharge to shipments that were split from one package. If you ship a split package with FedEx, compare its total with the other couriers.
- Import duties and taxes still apply. Splitting on purpose to stay under a duty-free threshold isn't allowed in most countries. See "How import duties and taxes are calculated".
Common questions
I bought 3 laptops. Can they go in one box? No. A single package can contain up to 2 products with a built-in battery, so 3 laptops go out as at least two shipments.
My package weighs 80 lb. Do I have to split it? No, but we generally recommend it. Above 70 lb, splitting it can avoid an overweight surcharge.
Why did FedEx cost more after my package was split? FedEx may apply a surcharge to shipments that were split from one package. Other couriers may be cheaper for the same shipments.
How do I ask for my package to be split? Contact our support team before you pay for the shipment, and tell us which package you want split.
Still need help?
Our support team is available on weekdays from 09:00 to 17:00 ET at [email protected].