Is Express a Real Shipping Company? How to Verify and What to Do

You've probably seen a parcel label that says "Express" and wondered whether it's a legitimate carrier or just a dummy name used by a scammer. Knowing the truth matters: if the company is real, you can trust it for your deliveries; if not, you could lose money or personal data. This article walks you through the facts about Express, shows you how to verify any shipping company, and gives practical steps to protect yourself.

Key Takeaways

• Express is a registered logistics firm in the United States, but its brand presence is limited compared to industry giants.
• Legitimacy can be confirmed by checking DOT/MC numbers, online reviews, and the company’s website security.
• Common red flags include vague pricing, no tracking system, and requests for payment via unconventional methods.
• If Express meets verification criteria, you can use its services safely; otherwise, choose a proven carrier like UPS, FedEx, DHL, or USPS.
• Always protect shipments with proper insurance and use a reliable tracking number.

Express is a domestic shipping carrier founded in 2018, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and operating under MC‑809872 with the U.S. Department of Transportation. The firm markets itself as a "fast, affordable, and tech‑enabled" delivery option for e‑commerce merchants. While it holds proper licensing, its market share is under 1% of total U.S. parcel volume, which explains why many consumers haven't heard of it.

How to Verify Any Shipping Company

1. Check DOT/MC registration. Visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website and enter the company’s MC or USDOT number. A valid entry confirms the carrier is authorized to transport goods.
2. Inspect the website. Look for HTTPS, a clear privacy policy, contact details (phone, email, physical address), and a professional design. Fake carriers often have misspelled words and generic stock images.
3. Search for reviews. Use platforms like Trustpilot, Better Business Bureau, and industry forums. Real carriers have a mix of positive and negative feedback; a brand with no mentions is suspicious.
4. Test the tracking system. Enter a sample tracking number on the carrier’s portal. A working tracker shows status updates in real time.
5. Verify insurance options. Legitimate shippers offer shipping insurance and clearly state coverage limits. Absence of insurance is a red flag.

What Express Actually Offers

Express focuses on three core services:

• Same‑day delivery within major metropolitan areas (Chicago, Detroit, St. Louis).
• Standard ground shipping for packages up to 150lb across the continental U.S.
• API integration for e‑commerce platforms, allowing merchants to generate labels and track shipments automatically.

The company claims an average delivery window of 24‑48hours for ground shipments and 2‑4hours for same‑day jobs. However, independent reviews note occasional delays during peak holiday seasons.

Red Flags That Hint at a Shipping Scam

Even with a registered carrier, some scammers impersonate real brands. Watch out for these warning signs:

• Requests for payment via gift cards, Bitcoin, or wire transfers.
• Lack of a verifiable tracking number until after the transaction is complete.
• Unusually low rates that undercut every major carrier by 50% or more.
• Emails from generic domains like @gmail.com or @yahoo.com rather than a corporate @express.com address.
• Absence of a physical address or a phone number that cannot be reached.

Express vs. the Big Four Carriers

What to Do If Express Checks Out

If your verification steps confirm that Express is a licensed carrier, you can safely use its services. Follow these best practices:

1. Register an account on the official Express portal and enable two‑factor authentication.
2. Generate a tracking number for each shipment and keep a copy in your order management system.
3. Purchase shipping insurance for high‑value items (recommended coverage: 100% of item value).
4. Set up email or SMS notifications so you and your customer receive real‑time delivery updates.
5. Schedule a post‑delivery audit to compare promised vs. actual delivery times, helping you decide if Express meets your service level agreements.

What to Do If You Spot a Scam

Should any of the red flags appear, take immediate action:

• Stop payment and contact your bank or payment processor to request a chargeback.
• Report the fraudulent activity to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the FMCSA.
• Notify the legitimate carrier if you suspect they’re being impersonated.
• Leave a factual review on consumer‑protection sites to warn others.

Frequently Asked Questions