LJ
Lloyd J Rittiner jr
Aug 12, 2026
I normally prefer to write letters recognizing good service rather than criticizing poor service. Unfortunately, my recent experience with Federal Express warrants a formal complaint.
I ordered an anniversary gift for my wife from a merchant in Manhattan, New York. The merchant arranged for the item to be shipped overnight by Federal Express in a plain brown box. On August 10, 2026, I received an email confirming that Federal Express had picked up the package and that delivery was scheduled for August 11, 2026, between 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Because the package contained an expensive item and required a signature, my wife agreed to remain home throughout the day to receive it.
At approximately 4:00 p.m., I called my wife to ask whether the package had arrived. She told me that no one had rang the doorbell or attempted to contact her during the day. I then contacted the merchant and was informed that Federal Express records showed the package had been delivered at approximately 15:58 p.m. and, more concerning, that my name had been entered as the person who signed for the delivery.
This was impossible. I was not at home when the package was delivered, and I did not sign for it or authorize anyone to sign my name.
I called my wife again and asked her to check outside. She found the package left near the front of the house. Fortunately, it was still there.
My home is protected by two different types of security cameras, including exterior cameras. After returning home, I reviewed the recorded video. The recording clearly shows the Federal Express driver delivering the package and leaving it outside. The driver did not bring the package to the door, he left the package on the left side of the entrance way, nor did he ring the doorbell, or obtain my signature. I have preserved the video recording in cloud storage.
The most troubling aspect of this incident is not simply that the driver failed to ring the doorbell. A delivery record was created representing that I had signed for a package when I had not. That is a serious matter.
The package contained a valuable anniversary gift. Had it been stolen after being left unattended, the Federal Express delivery record would have indicated that I personally accepted and signed for an item that I never received. This could have created a significant and completely unnecessary dispute between me, the merchant, and Federal Express.
I am retired now, but during 50 years of working in Washington, D.C., I used Federal Express many times and found the company dependable and professional. That history is one reason this incident was particularly disappointing.
I respectfully request that Federal Express review this delivery, including the representation that I signed for the package, and take whatever corrective action is appropriate. A signature requirement should provide both the sender and recipient with security and accountability. It serves little purpose if a package can simply be left unattended and the recipient's name entered as though a genuine signature had been obtained.
I would also appreciate a written response explaining the results of your review and what steps will be taken to prevent a similar occurrence in the future.
Sincerely,
Lloyd J. Rittiner, Jr.