Guides

AliExpress: 9 rules for stress‑free buys

  1. Read photo reviews and filter by your country.
  2. Check seller age, feedback %, and dispute history.
  3. Prefer products with recent orders and Q&A activity.
  4. Use platform chat only; never pay off‑site.
  5. Confirm shipping window and buyer protection end date.
  6. Record unboxing; keep labels until you confirm quality.
  7. Open disputes early if tracking stalls near protection end.
  8. Avoid “too good to be true” branded items.
  9. Use coupons + coins + store promos in one stack.

Alibaba for beginners

Alibaba connects buyers to manufacturers and trading companies. Start small, validate quality, and protect payments.

Key concepts

  • MOQ — Minimum order quantity. Negotiate, but respect production realities.
  • Trade Assurance — Escrow with defined specs, milestones, and deadlines.
  • Incoterms — EXW, FOB, CIF define risk & cost splits. For beginners, FOB is practical.

First message template

Hello, I'm interested in [product].
Target spec: [key features].
Quantity: [X units].
Packaging: [plain/brand].
Please quote: unit price for [X], sample price, lead time, shipping terms (FOB [port]).

Shipping from China explained

Economy lines (Cainiao, SunYou) are cheap but slow; priority lines cost more but shave days off. Always check the promised delivery window and tracking events.

  • Economy: 10–30 days, limited tracking.
  • Priority: 7–12 days, end‑to‑end tracking.
  • Customs & VAT: many countries collect VAT at checkout; otherwise expect import fees on delivery.

No‑nonsense buyer checklist

  • Screenshot the listing, specs, and promised delivery window.
  • Verify power standards, sizes, and local compliance.
  • Use a one‑time or virtual card when possible.
  • Confirm return policy and dispute steps before ordering.
  • Track protection timelines in your calendar.