FedEx entrusted with the delivery of T-Rex skeleton

A subsidiary of FedEx Corp., FedEx Custom Critical, has successfully carried out the safe transportation of a rare Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton. The fragile skeleton has travelled from the Museum of Rockies in Bozeman, Montana, to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, located in Washington, D.C.

The fossil, being 65 million years old, is due to be on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History for the next 50 years, as per the terms of its loan with the museum. The skeleton will be the new centrepiece of the dinosaur hall, where it is expected to receive approximately 7 million views annually. Measuring at 38 feet in length and weighing a hefty seven tonnes, the skeleton has been branded "The Nation's T-Rex."

The impressive skeleton travelled from Montana to Washington D.C. within a specially-branded FedEx Custom Critical truck. The trusted truck was driven by a husband and wife team, with the vehicle being equipped with the most recent and advanced technology. Such technology included a GPS system which was programmed with the preferred route. 

The specially designed FedEx truck which transported the
skeleton to the museum in Washington D.C.

The journey of the ancient fossil took a total of 4 days, during which time thorough monitoring was providing. A new proactive system was implemented to help with the successful journey of the skeleton. FedEx were able to oversee the shipment and monitor specifics, such as the temperature, humidity and light exposure whilst it was in transit.

CEO of FedEx Custom Critical, Virginia Albanese, has said: "FedEx Custom Critical has the experience and expertise in delivering some of the world's most precious cargo, and this unique shipment showcases our ability to once again create a perfectly tailored solution for our customer. We are thrilled to have collaborated with the Smithsonian to deliver such an important piece of history to our nation's capital."

The first ever bone of the T-Rex has found by rancher Kathy Wankel in 1988 in the Fort Peck Reservoir. Due to the finding, a specialist team carried out an intense investigation around the surrounding areas. The search resulted in the discovery of 80% of the dinosaur's skeleton, which is considered one of the most preserved and well kept specimens known.