The good does not outweigh the bad
Pros
FedEx Ground shifts are short which makes it easy to schedule appointments and spend time with family and friends. Package Handlers work shifts that are usually four hours long depending on how many trucks need unloaded/loaded. Part time Package Handlers are also given the option to work more than one shift if they would like, allowing them up to 30 hours a week. FedEx offers package handlers the option to go full time (work two shifts) after the new employee probation period. FedEx also prides itself on working safe and promoting from within with 95% of all management having worked as a package handler. Time off requests are usually always approved as long as there is a good reason for it. Even if they've been turned in after the request cut off date. Raises are given out regularly: Once at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months, and then yearly.
Cons
It's all about the numbers at FedEx. Package handlers are expected to unload at a base rate of ~1000 boxes per hour plus whatever the manager of the day expects. If you meet their expectations, great! If not, you'll more than likely be threatened to get sent home "if you don't want to do your job". Management has very little patience when it comes to their employees unless you're their favorites. If they like you, you could get away with murder. If they don't like you, there is nothing that can be done to please them and you'll be given the worst trucks in the building to work on. Managers can often be found huddling in the middle of the banks chatting, laughing, and discussing their plans for the evening; outside smoking; or sitting somewhere out of view playing on their phones. There is no climate control in the building except for some fans with the power of a light spring breeze. Be prepared to be dehydrated beyond belief since management looks down on those who take five for a drink. The shift times are never consistent. One day the shift might end at 5:30, the next day it ends at 4:15, the next it's 6:20. It all depends on how many loads there are and how fast the unloaders/loaders can get the job done. While they claim safety is their biggest focus, be prepared to lift 70+ pounds by yourself because stopping to ask for help will just bring your numbers down and get you in trouble; you'll also be questioned why you're not working, be told to work around the heavy boxes, and then be told there's no one to help so just get it done. It's best to just suck it up and do it yourself anyway. Shift start times are always being changed last minute or weekend shifts are added on Fridays without notice. Those who don't get the message are written up for not coming in. Low rate of pay for the work being performed.