Thursday, September 12, 2024

Overview

This page’s job is simple on paper: help customers estimate shipping cost and delivery options based on details like origin, destination, ship date, packaging, weight, and dimensions—and do it fast.

Role: Senior UI/UX Designer
Scope: Page UX, form flow, information hierarchy, responsive behavior, accessibility, interaction states

The Problem

Even motivated users can hit friction on a rate calculator—because the task is detail-heavy and time-sensitive.

  • Too many inputs feel “expensive” up front. Users often don’t have every detail ready (dimensions, declared value, etc.).

  • Unclear sequencing. When fields aren’t grouped by how people think (“Where is it going?” → “What is it?” → “When?”), users hesitate or abandon.

  • Decision overload at results time. Rates and delivery times can produce multiple options; without strong hierarchy, it becomes a comparison problem instead of a decision.

  • Mobile input pain. Zip codes, dates, and package measurements are easy to mistype on mobile, and error handling can feel punishing.

The Solution

I redesigned the experience around progressive disclosure and decision-ready results—so users can get a quote quickly, then refine only if needed.

1) Intent-first structure (scanable in 3 seconds)

The form is organized into plain-language sections that match user intent:

  • From / To (origin + destination)

  • Package (weight first, dimensions optional until needed)

  • Timing (ship date + delivery options)
    This aligns directly to the core inputs FedEx requires for accurate estimates.

2) “Minimum viable quote” first, refinements second

To reduce drop-off, the primary path collects only what’s needed to show an estimate:

  • Origin + destination ZIPs

  • Packaging type

  • Weight
    Then we progressively reveal: dimensions, value/insurance, and special handling—only when relevant.

3) Results designed for decisions, not reading

The results area emphasizes:

  • Best overall choice (balanced cost + speed)

  • Fastest and Lowest cost anchors

  • Clear delivery-time language and constraints
    This turns the output into a quick selection instead of a dense comparison table.

4) Error prevention that feels helpful

  • Inline validation (ZIP format, required fields)

  • Smart defaults (common packaging, remembered preferences for returning users)

  • Clear, human error messages and “fix it” links near the problem field

5) Mobile-first input ergonomics

  • Numeric keyboards for ZIP/weight

  • Date picker tuned for speed (next available ship date)

  • Sticky “Get rates” CTA once minimum inputs are complete

Outcome (What improved)

The redesigned page makes it easier for first-time and returning shippers to:

  • understand what’s required,

  • get an estimate with fewer steps, and

  • choose a service level confidently.


Category:

UI/UX

Client:

FedEx

Duration:

2 years

Location:

Memphis, TN (Remote)

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© 2026 MATTHEW FORD
(UI/UX + ART DIRECTION)
DIGITAL DESIGN
© 2026 MATTHEW FORD
DIGITAL DESIGN
© 2026 MATTHEW FORD
DIGITAL DESIGN