FedEx Integrates Virtual Earth

Federal Express has launched their new drop box locator service using Virtual Earth. Search for the nearest drop boxes and you'll get a resulting list of locations. Near the top of the result list is a "View Area Map" link which opens up a div containing a Virtual Earth map plotting each of the drop box locations and a legend. You can also check or uncheck different types of results such as "FedEx Staffed," "Self-Service," and "FedEx Authorized Ship Center." You can then update the results for the list and the map. Each location on the map contains a popup with the location name and address.

From the list of results you can also link off to a page with a map and driving directions. Pretty nice looking locator. I'll be expecting more robust functionality such as finding locations along a route or drag and refresh maps; and/or, detailed information in the popups such as hours of operation and a click to call phone number. All in time, I suppose.

CP