a day ago
FedEx unveils new AI features to simplify global shipping docs
FedEx has introduced two new artificial intelligence-powered features to assist customers in preparing international shipping documents across the Asia-Pacific region.
The features, Customs AI and the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) Code Lookup Feature, are designed to support businesses and individuals in accurately classifying goods, estimating duties and taxes, and reducing customs delays when shipping abroad. Both solutions are integrated into the FedEx Ship Manager platform at
AI tools for customs compliance
The HTS Code Lookup Feature is intended to assist users with U.S.-bound shipments by helping them select the most appropriate customs codes for their items. Customers input item descriptions into the system, which responds with suggestions for the correct HTS code options, a confidence score for each suggestion, and direct links to the official U.S. tariff schedule for verification.
Customs AI, meanwhile, employs generative AI technology as a real-time chatbot assistant. This feature is currently available to customers in Australia, Guam, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the Philippines. The chatbot prompts users to provide detailed item descriptions, analyses these descriptions dynamically, and recommends the appropriate HTS codes, which can then be applied to documentation with a single click.
Both tools are updated to remain compliant with evolving trade regulations, aiming to provide transparency and support regulatory adherence in global shipping processes.
Addressing shipping documentation challenges
FedEx states that inaccurate or incomplete shipping documentation remains a significant issue in international trade, often resulting in delays, additional fees, or penalties for importers and exporters. The company says these challenges are being directly addressed through the new features, which not only simplify documentation but also support more accurate duty and tax calculations by improving the precision of customs code classifications. Salil Chari, Senior Vice President of Marketing & Customer Experience for Asia-Pacific at FedEx, commented, "At FedEx, we are driven by our commitment to delivering flexibility, efficiency, and intelligence for our customers. By leveraging advanced digital insights and intuitive tools, we're empowering businesses with the agility to adapt, the efficiency to streamline operations, and the intelligence to make better decisions. These innovations not only simplify global trade but also enable our customers to grow their businesses with confidence in an ever-evolving marketplace."
Intended benefits
FedEx highlights several benefits that these solutions are expected to deliver to customers shipping internationally. By dynamically tailoring questions and guiding users through comprehensive documentation, the Customs AI chatbot aims to ensure the provision of complete and accurate data, which is essential for customs brokers and can help to speed up the clearance process for U.S.-bound shipments.
The company also states that accurate HTS code selection will produce more precise duty and tax estimations, supporting better financial planning for cross-border transactions. The risk of customs delays and additional penalties is also expected to decrease as a result of full and correct documentation when goods are shipped.
Additional features such as direct links to official tariff schedules and system updates for regulatory compliance are incorporated to provide customers with a more transparent and manageable process for verifying customs information.
Supporting trade and education
The launch of these AI-powered tools forms part of a broader approach that FedEx has taken to assist businesses in adapting to changing trade regulation landscapes. In addition to the technology enhancements, FedEx also facilitates webinars focusing on customs compliance and global shipping best practices to help customers remain informed of the latest requirements and recommendations.
Customers also have access to other FedEx digital import solutions, including the FedEx Import Tool and the Collaborative Shipping Tool, supporting efforts to streamline international supply chain management and customs clearance activities.
FedEx states that by providing these integrated solutions, it aims to combine immediate practical assistance with ongoing education and support customers in maintaining compliance as global trade regulations evolve.
