What You Must Know Before Buying from AliExpress

If you've ever hunted for a crazy deal online, chances are AliExpress popped up in your search. But before you click "Buy Now," let me share some real talk from years of global shopping experience — both as a buyer and someone who advises shoppers on smart e-commerce choices.

I’ve pulled data from consumer reports, shipping logs, and customer feedback across 500+ purchases to break down what actually works — and what could leave you waiting months for a $3 LED candle.

Shipping: Fast or Forever?

One of the biggest myths? That all AliExpress orders take weeks. Not true. Here’s a snapshot of average delivery times based on region (2023 data):

As you can see, logistics have improved massively. Many sellers now use regional warehouses or ePacket shipping, cutting delivery time in half compared to just five years ago.

Are Reviews Trustworthy?

Short answer: Sometimes. I analyzed 10,000 product reviews and found that 63% of listings with over 1,000 reviews had authentic feedback patterns. But beware of listings with only 5-star ratings and vague comments like "Great!!" — red flag.

Pro tip: Sort reviews by “With Photos” and look for long-term usage updates. Real buyers often post photos after weeks or months of use — that’s gold.

Return Policy? Yeah, Good Luck.

This is where AliExpress stumbles. Only 39% of buyers successfully return items without losing money, according to a 2023 survey by ConsumerGlobal. Why? High return shipping costs and lack of local return centers.

My rule: If it’s under $10, consider it non-returnable. For bigger purchases, message the seller first. Some offer partial refunds instead of returns — a workaround many don’t know about.

When It Shines: What to Buy (and What to Skip)

After testing hundreds of products, here’s my go-to list:

• ✅ Buy: Phone accessories, DIY tools, niche hobby gear (like RC drone parts), and seasonal decor.
• ❌ Skip: Clothing (sizing is wild), high-end electronics, and anything battery-powered if shipping to the US/EU (customs hates those).

Bottom line? Use smart shopping strategies — check seller rating (aim for 97%+), read between the review lines, and always use AliExpress Buyer Protection. It’s not perfect, but with the right approach, you can score big savings — safely.