Taobao Guide to Combining Orders for Lower Shipping

Shopping on Taobao? You're not alone. Millions of savvy shoppers flock to China's biggest online marketplace every day to snag everything from trendy fashion to tech gadgets at unbeatable prices. But here's the real tea: shipping costs can quickly turn your bargain into a budget-buster—unless you know the secret trick: combining orders.

Why Combine Orders on Taobao?

Let’s break it down. If you buy three items from different sellers, each might charge a separate shipping fee—say, ¥15 per item. That’s ¥45 in shipping for small goods that could easily fit in one box. Ouch. But if you combine them? Often just one flat rate. Smart, right?

The magic happens when you use a consolidation warehouse. These third-party services collect all your Taobao purchases in China and ship them together internationally. Less packaging, fewer fees, more savings.

Step-by-Step: How to Combine Orders Like a Pro

1. Shop as usual on Taobao—add items to cart, check out.
2. Instead of shipping directly, send all items to your forwarding service address in China (e.g., in Guangzhou or Shanghai).
3. Wait for all packages to arrive at the warehouse (usually 3–7 days).
4. Request consolidation: merge packages, remove excess packaging, take photos.
5. Choose international shipping method and pay one combined fee.

Real Savings: By the Numbers

Check out this example of how combining orders cuts costs:

That’s a 38% reduction in shipping costs—and lighter environmental impact too!

Top Tips for Maximum Savings

• Use a reliable forwarder: Try services like Superbuy, Pandabuy, or Basetao. They offer free warehousing, repackaging, and even purchase assistance.
• Wait for everything to arrive: Most warehouses hold items for 30–60 days free of charge.
• Remove unnecessary boxes: Save weight and space by having your forwarder unpack and repackage items.
• Choose ePacket or YunExpress: Affordable, trackable options for global shipping.

Watch Out For…

Not all items can be combined. Fragile goods, liquids, or batteries may require special handling or can’t be repackaged. Always check restrictions before ordering.

Also, timing matters. If you’re impatient, you might pay extra for rush shipping. Plan ahead—start shopping early if you’ve got a deadline.

The Bottom Line

Combining orders isn’t just a money-saver—it’s a game-changer for smart Taobao shoppers. With a little planning and the right tools, you can slash shipping fees, reduce waste, and still get your favorite Chinese goodies fast and affordably.

So next time you’re about to hit 'buy now,' ask yourself: Can I wait and combine this? Chances are, the answer is yes—and your wallet will thank you.