Today, I’ll answer the question: is AliExpress legit and safe to buy from?
AliExpress is a massive online marketplace primarily located in China and owned by Alibaba Group.
The platform is widely used because of its 100+ million products, most of which have unusually low prices…
But is it safe to buy from AliExpress sellers? Or is AliExpress a scam?
Is AliExpress a trustworthy and reliable supplier for dropshipping?
Does AliExpress have a buyer protection program?
Let’s find out in this review of AliExpress in 2023!
Is AliExpress Legit?
AliExpress is an online marketplace owned by Alibaba Group, a publicly traded company worth over $300 billion.
AliExpress’s website receives almost 500 million visitors each month, all from various countries across the globe.
I’ve also used AliExpress as a dropshipping supplier for my e-commerce business and placed thousands of orders. However, there are much better alternatives…
So, is AliExpress legit…? Yes, AliExpress is a legit website. But is AliExpress safe? Let’s find out…
Is AliExpress Safe?
Although AliExpress can seem sketchy, it’s safe to order from (for the most part).
AliExpress sellers have feedback and ratings, so you can be sure you’re ordering from a reliable supplier.
Alipay, a service with over 1.3 billion users, securely processes your payment details when placing an order.
According to Trust Pilot, AliExpress reviews have a 2.7-star rating. This is pretty rough, but it’s mostly because of really low quality and ridiculously long shipping times.
If you buy from AliExpress and receive poor-quality products or never get your item, you can file a claim and get a refund.
So, is AliExpress safe… Yes, AliExpress is safe to buy from.
What is AliExpress?
AliExpress is one of the largest online marketplaces in the world, with a wide variety of products available from millions of sellers.
The platform offers everything from electronics, clothing, home goods, jewelry, beauty products, pet supplies, and more at prices that are often much lower than what you would find at a traditional retail store. This makes it a popular choice for consumers and eCommerce business owners looking to purchase goods in bulk or for resale.
Some of the key features of AliExpress include:
A wide selection of products from millions of sellers.
Competitive prices are often lower than what you find at a traditional retail store.
A full refund or partial refund policy, as the case may be.
A buyer protection program that ensures customers have a safe and secure shopping experience.
Multiple payment options include credit cards, bank transfers, and payment services like PayPal.
Free shipping on many products and the ability to track your order from the moment it is placed until it is delivered to your door.
It’s worth noting that AliExpress is a marketplace, which means that the products you find on the platform are sold by third-party sellers, not by AliExpress itself. While most sellers on AliExpress are legitimate, some may be less trustworthy.
Therefore, checking the seller’s rating and reviews before making a purchase (more on this soon) is essential. Additionally, shipping times and costs can vary depending on the seller and the product, so it’s essential to read the product description and shipping details carefully before making a purchase.
How Does AliExpress Work?
AliExpress is an online marketplace where millions of sellers can list their products for purchase. The platform is similar to other e-commerce sites like Amazon or eBay, where consumers can browse various products, read product descriptions and reviews, and make purchases.
Here’s a general overview of the process of buying from AliExpress:
Search or browse for a product: You can search for a specific product using the search bar or browse through various categories to find what you’re looking for.
Choose a seller: Once you’ve found a product you’re interested in, you’ll see different sellers selling the same product. You can compare prices, shipping times, and reviews from other buyers to help you decide.
Add the item to your cart and checkout: Once you’ve selected a seller and a product, you can add it to your cart and proceed to checkout. You’ll be asked to enter your shipping address and choose a payment method.
Pay for the item: After you’ve entered your information and reviewed your order, you can pay for the item. AliExpress accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, bank transfers, and online payment services like PayPal.
Wait for your item to be shipped: Once you’ve made your payment, the seller will begin processing your order. You’ll be able to track your order’s shipping status from your AliExpress account.
It’s worth noting that shipping times can vary depending on the seller and the product, so it’s essential to check the product description and shipping details before you buy from AliExpress.
Additionally, AliExpress is a marketplace where the products you find on the platform are sold by third-party sellers, not by AliExpress itself. It’s essential to check the seller’s rating and reviews before making a purchase.
Why is AliExpress So Cheap?
AliExpress is known for offering a wide range of products at competitive prices, and there are several reasons why products on the platform are often cheaper than those found at traditional retail stores. They include:
Direct from Manufacturers: AliExpress acts as a middleman between manufacturers and consumers, allowing manufacturers to sell their products directly to consumers at a lower price. By cutting out intermediaries, manufacturers can offer their products at a cheaper price.
Lower overhead costs: On AliExpress, sellers generally have lower overhead costs than traditional retail stores since they don’t have to pay for physical storefronts, utilities, and staff. This allows them to offer products at a lower price to consumers.
The large volume of products: AliExpress has a vast selection of products, and sellers can often offer lower prices by selling a high volume of items. This allows them to take advantage of economies of scale, which can lead to lower consumer prices.
Competition: With many sellers on the platform, competition is high, which can lead to lower prices to attract buyers.
Location: Many of the products on AliExpress are manufactured in China, which has lower labor and production costs than other countries. This also allows sellers to offer products at a lower price. Additionally, many sellers are based in China, and they can take advantage of the lower costs of living and operating a business in that country to offer lower prices.
It is essential to know that while many sellers can offer products at a lower price, some may use low prices as a way to attract customers and then make up for it in shipping costs. Hence, it’s essential to read the product descriptions and shipping details carefully before finalizing your purchase.
Additionally, while most sellers on AliExpress are legitimate, some may be less trustworthy, so it’s important to check the seller’s rating and reviews before making a purchase.
How to Buy from AliExpress Safely and Avoid Scams
When shopping on AliExpress, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure a safe and secure experience and avoid scams. To avoid AliExpress scams, follow these steps:
Research the seller: Check the seller’s rating and reviews to get an idea of their reputation and the quality of their products. Stay away from sellers with poor ratings, a bad reputation, or negative feedback. Always make sure you read seller reviews.
Read the details of the product and the shipping method: Make sure you understand the details of the product and the shipping costs before making a purchase. Be cautious of sellers who don’t provide detailed information or charge high shipping fees.
Utilize the buyer protection program: AliExpress offers a buyer protection program that covers purchases in case the item is not received or does not match the description.
Use a secure payment method: Use a secure payment method such as a credit card, bank transfer, or online payment service like PayPal to protect your personal and financial information.
Be aware of shipping time: Be mindful of the estimated delivery time to avoid disappointment.
Keep records: Keep records of all orders and seller correspondence; this can be useful in case you need to open a dispute.
How AliExpress Buyer Protection Program Works
The AliExpress Buyer Protection Program is a set of policies and procedures designed to protect customers from fraud and ensure they receive the products they ordered promptly.
When a customer purchases AliExpress, the platform holds the payment until the customer confirms receipt of the product. If the customer does not receive the product or if the product received is significantly different from the product described in the listing, the customer can open a dispute and request a refund or a resolution with the seller. These features make AliExpress safe to buy from…
The AliExpress buyer protection period begins when the order is placed and lasts for several days after the order is shipped. The exact duration of the buyer protection period varies depending on the product and the shipping method.
Customers can also dispute if the product is defective, damaged, or not as described. In such cases, the customer can request a full or partial refund or a resolution with the seller. The customer and the seller will be able to communicate through the AliExpress platform, and the platform will help facilitate the resolution process.
Customers can also dispute if the product is not shipped or if the shipping time is longer than promised. In such cases, the customer can request a full or partial refund or a resolution with the seller.
Overall, the AliExpress Buyer Protection Program is designed to provide customers with a safe and secure shopping experience by protecting their rights and interests and helping them resolve issues related to their purchases.
AliExpress vs. Alibaba
AliExpress and Alibaba are both online marketplaces, but they are designed for different types of customers and have different business models.
Alibaba is primarily a B2B (business-to-business) platform that connects Chinese manufacturers with individual customers worldwide and e-commerce businesses. On Alibaba, customers can purchase products in bulk directly from manufacturers at wholesale prices. Like AliExpress, some Alibaba suppliers have a bad reputation for not having the best quality products and should be inspected thoroughly before purchase.
On the other hand, AliExpress is a B2C (business-to-consumer) platform that offers a wide variety of products at low prices to individual customers worldwide. It’s owned by the Alibaba Group and is similar to other e-commerce sites like Amazon or eBay.
The platform offers a large selection of products from various sellers, including electronics, fashion, t-shirts, home goods, and more. It’s a popular choice for small businesses looking to purchase goods in bulk or for resale.
When buying products on Aliexpress, it’s important to note that the platform offers a buyer protection program that ensures customers have a safe and secure shopping experience. This program covers purchases if the item is not received or doesn’t match the description and also allows customers to request a full or partial refund if they are not satisfied with their purchase.
Additionally, Aliexpress offers a variety of shipping methods, including standard shipping, expedited shipping, and express shipping. Shipping times and costs can vary depending on the merchant and shipping method, so checking the product description and shipping details before making a purchase is essential.
In comparison, when buying products on Alibaba, the process is slightly different as it mainly focuses on wholesale purchases. However, checking the product description and shipping details is essential before purchasing and researching the supplier. Additionally, if there’s any problem with your purchase, you can make a refund request or reach out to the seller directly.
Another significant difference between AliExpress and Alibaba is their variety of products. AliExpress has a broader range of products catering to individual customers and small businesses.
AliExpress sells electronics, clothing, fashion accessories, and more. On the other hand, Alibaba mainly focuses on wholesale and bulk products, catering more to large businesses and manufacturers. They have a wide range of products but mainly focus on industrial products, raw materials, and machinery.
In summary, Alibaba is a B2B platform that connects Chinese manufacturers with businesses and individuals who want to purchase products in bulk at wholesale prices. AliExpress is a B2C platform that offers a wide variety of products at low prices to individual customers across the globe, with a buyer protection program.
Businesses mainly use Alibaba to purchase products in bulk (most times, there is a MOQ). AliExpress is more suitable for individuals who want to purchase products for personal use or for small eCommerce businesses that want to start their own dropshipping site without inventory.
Is AliExpress Legit and Safe? FAQ
What is AliExpress?
AliExpress is an online marketplace owned by Alibaba Group where individuals and businesses can shop at competitive prices. It offers various products from various merchants, including electronics, fashion, home goods, and more.
Is AliExpress safe?
Yes. It’s safe to buy from AliExpress because of its rating system, encrypted payment method, and refund policy.
What kind of buyer protection does AliExpress offer?
AliExpress buyer protection program that ensures customers have a safe and secure shopping experience. The program covers purchases if the item is not received or if it doesn’t match the description. Additionally, a buyer protection period gives you time to inspect and check the quality of the products before confirming receipt.
Can I use AliExpress for drop shipping?
Yes, many businesses use AliExpress to dropship products to their customers. You can purchase items individually and have them shipped directly to your customers. AliExpress also has its own product research tool, AliExpress Dropshipping Center. However, for more reliable and trustworthy suppliers, I recommend using the best dropshipping suppliers in Canada, the best dropshipping suppliers in Europe, the best dropshipping suppliers USA, or the best dropshipping suppliers in the UK.
How long does AliExpress take to ship an item?
AliExpress shipping times can vary depending on the merchant and the product. Some AliExpress sellers offer standard shipping that takes about 20-40 days, while others offer faster shipping methods that take about 7-15 days. Read the product description and shipping details carefully before making a purchase.
What should I do if I receive poor-quality merchandise from AliExpress?
If your product quality is compromised, you can contact the seller and request a full refund.
Can I track my order on AliExpress?
Yes, you can track your order on the AliExpress shipping app. Once the merchant ships the item, you’ll receive a tracking number that you can use to track the package.
What are the different shipping methods offered by AliExpress?
AliExpress offers a variety of shipping methods, including standard shipping, expedited shipping, and express shipping. Shipping times and costs can vary depending on the merchant and the shipping method. Check the product description and shipping details before purchasing to determine the estimated delivery time and shipping costs.
How do I know if the products on AliExpress are of good quality?
AliExpress has a rating system for merchants, so you can check the seller’s rating and reviews before making a purchase. Additionally, AliExpress offers buyer protection which ensures a safe and secure shopping experience and covers purchases if the item is not received or doesn’t match the description.
What should I do if I have a problem with my AliExpress order?
If you receive poor-quality products, you can contact the seller and request a full refund. Additionally, you can use the AliExpress buyer protection program to ensure a safe and secure shopping experience. It covers purchases if the item is not received or doesn’t match the description.
Can I purchase items from local distributors on AliExpress?
Yes, definitely! AliExpress has a wide range of products from various merchants worldwide, including those from local distributors. So, you can easily purchase items from local distributors on the platform, not just Chinese manufacturers.
How long does AliExpress standard shipping take?
The shipping time may vary based on the merchant and the product you’re purchasing. But on average, standard shipping takes about 20-40 days. However, some sellers offer faster shipping methods that take about 7-15 days. So, check the product description and shipping details before making a purchase.
Can I purchase single-unit quantities from merchants on AliExpress?
Yes, this is the main purpose of AliExpress. AliExpress offers a wide range of products from various merchants, so you can purchase as many or as few items as you need. You can even purchase single-unit quantities from merchants on the platform.
Does AliExpress ensure quality control for products?
Yes, AliExpress takes quality control seriously. They have a rating system for merchants and a buyer protection program that covers purchases if the item is not received or doesn’t match the description. Additionally, many of the sellers on AliExpress are suppliers of Alibaba, which is known for its quality control. So you can be sure that you’re getting quality products.
Can I purchase consumer electronics from AliExpress?
Yes, you can purchase consumer electronics from AliExpress. The platform offers various merchants a wide range of products, including consumer electronics. So, you can find various electronic products on the platform. However, many of these items are poor-quality products, so it’s essential to read reviews first.
Does AliExpress deliver products to other countries?
Yes, AliExpress delivers products to other countries. The platform offers a wide range of products from various merchants worldwide, so you can purchase items and have them shipped to your country. The platform offers international shipping options, making it easy for international buyers to purchase items. Additionally, it’s important to note that some sellers may not ship to certain countries, so check the shipping details before making a purchase.
Does AliExpress use an escrow system for payments?
AliExpress uses an escrow system via Alipay for payments, ensuring a safe and secure transaction. The escrow system holds the payment until the buyer confirms receipt of the item. This feature is an added protection for the buyers on the platform.
How can I track my order on AliExpress?
Once the merchant ships the item, you’ll receive a tracking number that you can use to track the package on the AliExpress website. You can easily track your order on the platform and stay updated on the delivery status.
How can I avoid scams on AliExpress?
To avoid scams on AliExpress, research the seller, read the product and shipping details, utilize the buyer protection program, and pay attention to the prices. If a product seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Also, check the shipping details and ensure that the seller ships to your address. Also, when you receive the product, inspect it and check the quality before confirming receipt. If you have any doubts or issues with your purchase, you can open a dispute or request a refund. Following these guidelines, you can avoid scams and have a safe and secure shopping experience on AliExpress.
Does AliExpress guarantees delivery?
Yes, most of the products on AliExpress have a delivery window and guarantee. This means you can plan your purchases accordingly and ensure the product will be delivered within the given time frame. Additionally, many of the sellers on AliExpress are suppliers of Alibaba, so you can be sure that you’re getting quality products with a delivery guarantee.
Conclusion: Is AliExpress Legit and Safe?
After being in the dropshipping trenches for 6+ years, it’s clear that you can make a ton of money online…
And after this review, it’s obvious that AliExpress is a legit and safe platform to buy from. It offers a wide range of products at affordable prices and has a buyer protection program that ensures customers have a safe and secure shopping experience.
The platform’s rating system for merchants can help you identify the most reliable and trustworthy sellers.
However, if you’re looking for a supplier for your dropshipping store, I highly recommend a more trustworthy and reliable platform like Zendrop or CJDropshipping.
