perhaps it depends on region, but when ordering from the web fedex is rarely offered as default or at all. when it is offered as alternative to ups, it is costlier for same delivery speeds. maybe cost depends on regional contracts. however, fedex is suggested more often over ups when things need to be overnighted or expedited. either way, I think the two are well balanced.
with deliveries, my experience is that unless signature is requested, they will leave it on your steps or porch whether you are home or not. sometimes they'll have the courtesy to ring your doorbell quickly if they think you're home (window lights) but still drop the package and dash off. if this was not the case, I would not be able to receive 3/4 of my deliveries without being home.