Congratulations on getting your new American Express card! We understand that waiting for a new card can be exciting, especially when you're eager to start enjoying its benefits. So, let's dive into exactly how long you can expect your American Express card to arrive and what steps you can take to track its journey to your mailbox.
Step 1: Understanding Standard Shipping Times
First things first, let's manage expectations. While the world moves at lightning speed, credit card delivery generally follows a more measured pace to ensure security and proper handling.
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| How Long Do American Express Cards Take To Ship |
How Long Does It Usually Take?
For most new American Express cards and replacement cards, the standard shipping time is 7 to 10 business days. This timeframe accounts for processing your request, printing the card, and standard postal delivery. Remember, "business days" typically exclude weekends and public holidays. So, if you apply on a Friday, don't start counting the weekend as part of your 7-10 days!
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New Cards: When you're approved for a brand new American Express card, it typically takes this amount of time from the approval date.
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Replacement Cards: If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, American Express will issue a replacement. The shipping time for replacement cards also generally falls within this 7-10 business day window for standard delivery.
Step 2: Exploring Expedited Shipping Options
Are you in a rush? Perhaps you have an upcoming trip or a large purchase planned and need your card sooner. American Express often offers expedited shipping options, though these might come with certain conditions or costs.
When Can You Get It Faster?
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Replacement Cards: For replacement cards, American Express explicitly states that you can often choose from multiple delivery options, and depending on the method, you might receive your card within a few days or even next day. This is a significant advantage if you're without a card due to loss or damage.
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New Cards: While less commonly advertised for initial card issuance, it's always worth inquiring about expedited shipping for a new card during the application process or immediately after approval. Policies can vary by card product and your relationship with Amex.
How to Request Expedited Shipping:
QuickTip: Read again with fresh eyes.
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During Application/Approval: If you're applying for a new card, check the application form or contact customer service immediately after approval to see if an expedited shipping option is available and what the associated cost, if any, would be.
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For Replacement Cards: When requesting a replacement online or over the phone, you'll typically be presented with delivery options. Be sure to select the expedited option if available and desired.
Step 3: Tracking Your Card's Journey ️
Once your card has shipped, you'll naturally want to know where it is! American Express provides tools to help you track your card's delivery status.
Amex Online Account: Your Tracking Hub
The most reliable way to track your American Express card shipment is through your online account.
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Log In: Go to the American Express website () and log in to your account.
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Navigate to Account Services: Look for a section like "Account Services" or "Card Management."
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Find "Replace a Card" or "Card Delivery Status": Even if it's a new card, sometimes the tracking for new cards is found under similar headings, or there might be a dedicated "Card Delivery Status" link. For replacement cards, you'll definitely find it under "Replace a Card."
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View Status: On this page, you should be able to see the date your card was requested, track its shipping status with regular updates, and even see when and where it was delivered once it arrives.
What if Online Tracking Isn't Available or Clear?
If you can't find tracking information online, or if the information isn't clear, don't hesitate to:
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Contact American Express Customer Service: Call the customer service number on the back of any existing Amex card you have, or find the general customer service number on the American Express website. They can provide you with a tracking number or a more detailed update. Be prepared to verify your identity.
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Use the Amex App: The American Express mobile app also offers robust account management features, including the ability to check your card's status.
Step 4: What to Do If Your Card Is Delayed ⏰
Sometimes, despite all best efforts, a card can get delayed. This can be frustrating, but there are steps you can take.
Tip: A slow, careful read can save re-reading later.
Identifying a Delay
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Beyond Standard Timeframe: If your card hasn't arrived within the 7-10 business days for standard shipping (or the promised expedited timeframe), it's considered delayed.
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No Tracking Updates: If your online tracking hasn't updated for several days, this could also indicate a delay.
Actions to Take
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Check Tracking Again: Double-check your online account or the Amex app for any new updates.
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Contact American Express: This is your primary course of action.
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Explain the Situation: Clearly state that your card has not arrived within the expected timeframe.
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Verify Address: Confirm the shipping address on file to ensure there were no errors.
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Inquire About Reissuance: If the card appears lost in transit, American Express may offer to re-issue the card. In some cases, they might even offer expedited shipping for the reissued card at no extra cost due to the inconvenience.
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Check with Your Local Post Office: While less common for credit cards due to their secure delivery, it doesn't hurt to inquire with your local postal service with any tracking information you have, especially if the tracking shows it arrived but you didn't receive it.
Step 5: Upon Receiving Your Card
Once your American Express card finally arrives, there are a few crucial steps to take.
Activation is Key!
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Don't Forget to Activate: Your card will not work until you activate it. Instructions for activation are typically included with the card. You can usually activate it online through your Amex account or by calling the activation number provided.
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Sign the Card: For your security, immediately sign the back of your card in the designated signature panel.
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Update Recurring Payments: If this is a replacement card, remember to update any automatic or recurring payments (like streaming services, utilities, or subscriptions) with your new card number and expiration date. This ensures uninterrupted service and avoids declined transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Check My American Express Application Status?
You can check your American Express application status online through their application tracker tool, typically found on the Amex website. You'll usually need your registered mobile number or a 14-digit application reference number.
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
How to Expedite My American Express Card Delivery?
For replacement cards, you can often select an expedited delivery option when requesting the replacement online or over the phone. For new cards, inquire about expedited shipping during or immediately after the application process by contacting Amex customer service.
How to Track a Replacement American Express Card?
Log in to your American Express online account, navigate to "Account Services" or "Card Management," and then select "Replace a Card" or a similar option to view the delivery status of your replacement card.
How to Contact American Express About a Delayed Card?
Call American Express customer service. The number is usually on the back of any existing Amex card, or you can find it on the "Contact Us" section of the American Express website.
How to Activate a New American Express Card?
You can activate your new American Express card online by logging into your Amex account and following the activation prompts, or by calling the activation number provided with your card.
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
How to Update My Billing Address for My American Express Card?
You can update your billing address by logging into your American Express online account and navigating to your profile or personal details section, or by contacting customer service directly.
How to Get a Temporary American Express Card Number While Waiting for Delivery?
In some cases, especially for new card approvals or certain premium cards, American Express may offer an instant card number or temporary access to your account digitally for immediate online purchases while you await the physical card. Check your approval email or online account for this option.
How to Report a Lost or Stolen American Express Card?
Immediately report a lost or stolen American Express card by logging into your online account and selecting the "Lost or Stolen Card" option, or by calling American Express customer service. They will cancel the old card and arrange for a new one.
How to Manage Automatic Payments After Receiving a New Amex Card?
After receiving a new card, especially a replacement, you'll need to manually update your card details (card number, expiration date, security code) with each merchant or service provider that has recurring payments linked to your old card.
How to Find the American Express Customer Service Number?
The American Express customer service number is typically printed on the back of your card. You can also find it on the "Contact Us" page of the official American Express website for your region.
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