Overview
Unraveling AliExpress shipping
AliExpress, a renowned online shopping platform owned by the Alibaba Group, offers a plethora of shipping options. These options range from sea freight to air freight, depending on factors like the size and volume of your goods, geographical location, and the seller.
Among various methods, AliExpress Standard Shipping and Premium Shipping are noteworthy. Choosing between them affects cost, delivery window, and how much tracking visibility you get from order to door.
Standard
Understanding AliExpress Standard Shipping
AliExpress Standard Shipping is a logistics company owned by the Alibaba Group. This method is not strictly a delivery service but functions more as an agent, handling most of the logistics and control issues related to packages.
AliExpress Standard Shipping collaborates with numerous postal and courier carriers, including China Post, Singapore Post, Posti Finland, Correos, and other global services.
Features of AliExpress Standard Shipping
- ✓Cost-effectiveThough not the least expensive delivery method, it often proves worthwhile to pay a little extra due to the value it provides.
- ✓Tracking includedBoth transaction and tracking information is stored on AliExpress, allowing sellers and consumers to easily check the order status—popular among dropshippers.
- ✓Reputable & secureAliExpress Standard Shipping's safety is top-notch, ensuring security for your purchases.
- ✓Estimated delivery timeTypically 15–45 days. Luxury tier shipments on AliExpress can speed delivery up to 7–15 days.
Timing
AliExpress shipping time—what to expect
The shipping time on AliExpress can vary greatly. On average, an AliExpress item's delivery time is around 15 to 30 days. However, exceptions do exist. Orders placed during the holidays or when products are out of stock may result in extended shipping times.
Factors affecting AliExpress shipping time
Chinese New Year or Golden Week
These national holidays in China can last up to two weeks. Many factories and warehouses are closed, leading to shipment delays.
Type of shipment
The shipment type greatly impacts waiting time. Sea shipments take longer than air shipments.
Seller delays
If the product is out of stock when you place your order, the seller may need extra time to prepare the item.
Customs
Customs inspections can also cause shipment delays. These inspections can take days or even months.
Delivery
How long does AliExpress take to ship?
Processing time
The time required by the seller to prepare your order for shipping, usually one to five days. It can sometimes take longer for customized items.
Sorting & linehaul time
After the seller ships your order, the package takes time to reach the shipping company and be sorted—an estimated five to ten days.
Total shipping time
The total shipping time comprises the delivery time plus the processing time. Budgeting both is essential when planning inventory or dropship delivery promises.
Tracking
AliExpress Standard Shipping tracking—the process
AliExpress allows users to easily keep track of orders using package tracking. To get a tracking code, select a shipping method that includes an online tracking system.
How to check your order status
Log into your AliExpress profile, go to "My AliExpress" and then "My Orders." Click the Order Number and select Track Package—the tracking number will appear on the screen.
How tracking updates work
The system generates a unique tracking number once an item is processed. You can check the status of your shipment using this number and receive updates via email as the package progresses through the shipping process.
Speed
Faster shipping on AliExpress—the options
Delays
Why does AliExpress take so long to ship?
Multiple factors can cause delays in shipping. The main reason is that AliExpress sellers have thousands of warehouses across China. They ship products directly from these warehouses, often to an international destination, which can result in long shipping times.
Managing long shipping times
- ✓Check the processing timeBefore ordering any product, check the delivery processing time to manage expectations and plan accordingly.
- ✓Dropship from the selling countryIf you sell to customers in a specific country, finding a dropshipper who can ship from that country avoids potential customs delays.
- ✓Contact the sellerIf you're uncertain about your package's status, the seller might be able to provide more information.
- ✓Check the seller's feedback ratingA high rating suggests a reputable seller who will ship your order on time.
- ✓Choose AliExpress Premium ShippingFor a faster delivery, consider opting for AliExpress Premium Shipping.
In conclusion
Shipping times on AliExpress depend on the shipping method used, the size of the item, its purchasing location, and the seller's reputation. Although it's common for orders to take less than two weeks to arrive, if you need your order sooner, consider using a private carrier or contacting the seller to expedite shipping.
Related: China Post shipping & tracking guide · Taobao shipping to the USA · Express shipping from China
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How does AliExpress Standard Shipping work?
What are the advantages of using AliExpress Standard Shipping?
How long does AliExpress Standard Shipping take to deliver?
How does AliExpress Free Shipping work?
What sets AliExpress Premium Shipping apart from AliExpress Standard Shipping?
Why us
Need your AliExpress orders faster? Use a real freight partner
AliExpress Standard and Premium shipping both route through postal and parcel networks, which means weight caps, week-long sorting gaps, and no destination customs pre-payment. When your personal orders become commercial volumes—two dozen units, dropshipping at scale, or Amazon FBA restocks—an independent China freight partner takes over.
- ✓Guaranteed air schedulesExpress and commercial air from China in 3–7 days instead of a 15–45 day postal window.
- ✓China warehouse consolidationCombine AliExpress, Taobao, and 1688 supplier orders into one reinforced box before export.
- ✓DDP customs clearanceDestination duties and taxes pre-paid—no customs holds, no days lost to surprise inspections.
- ✓FBA & commercial door deliveryDirect Amazon FBA intake and commercial or residential delivery with a named account manager.
Quotation within 24 hours for faster alternatives to AliExpress Standard Shipping.
Get a free custom freight quote within 24 hours →