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How to Shop on AliExpress: A Beginner's Guide

Tap through each step to walk through buying on AliExpress for the first time.

  1. Sign up and install the app

    Register with your email or a social login, and install the mobile app, which is generally easier to use for browsing and tracking orders than the desktop site.

  2. Check seller ratings and reviews before buying

    Look at the seller's star rating, total number of completed orders, and β€” most importantly β€” photos that real buyers have posted in their reviews, to judge whether the listing matches reality.

  3. Choose your options and compare shipping methods

    Pick color, size, and quantity, then compare free versus paid shipping options for estimated delivery time and cost.

  4. Pay with a card or supported digital wallet

    Complete payment using a registered card or a supported payment method.

  5. Enter your customs information if required

    If your country requires a personal customs clearance code or similar ID, enter it during checkout or address registration.

  6. Track your shipment with the logistics number

    Find the tracking number in your order history and follow the shipment's progress.

  7. Confirm receipt or open a dispute

    If the item arrives as described, confirm receipt within the review period; if there's a problem, contact the seller first, and open a formal dispute through AliExpress if it isn't resolved.

Low Prices Make Checking the Seller Even More Important

AliExpress hosts a huge number of independent sellers, so quality and shipping speed for the exact same-looking product can vary a lot from one seller to another. Spending a minute checking ratings and reviews before you buy meaningfully cuts your odds of a bad order.

For Safer Shopping, Check This Too

Because prices run low, AliExpress also attracts counterfeit listings and occasional scam sellers β€” it's worth reviewing general online shopping safety habits alongside this guide before you place your first order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does AliExpress shipping take so long?

Most items ship from the seller's location and go through international transit and customs clearance, so depending on the shipping method you choose, delivery can take anywhere from about a week to a month or more.

What should I do if the item doesn't match the photos?

Don't confirm receipt right away β€” contact the seller first within the review period. If it isn't resolved, you can file a formal dispute through AliExpress to request a refund.