More and more businesses and customers are using Chinese e-commerce platforms for all their needs and stocks. It used to be quite hard to do direct business with Chinese sellers. That is why many companies used to partner up with local sellers to make restocking easier. But now, with platforms like Alibaba, Joybuy, Banggood, and AliExpress being so popular and easy to use, more businesses have found their way to these platforms and are doing direct business with Chinese sellers. But what can you expect when you’re shipping from China? And what do you have to pay attention to?
Why shipping from China?
Shipping goods from China has become increasingly popular over the last couple of decades. Chinese shops have become more available to Western countries and through platforms like Alibaba and AliExpress, the products on offer can be purchased quickly and efficiently. But above all, doing business directly with China is usually a lot more cost-efficient. That is why drop-shipping businesses have become popular over the last few years. But even other types of businesses have found their way to Chinese shops and resellers. That might seem like a smart step to take for your business, but it is important to be aware of the shipping process when buying from China before you make a purchase.
Postal services
Most parcels in China are sent by China Post. Whenever you place an order, whether it is as a consumer or as a business, you get to select a certain delivery option. The parcels will get a specific tracking number and will go through the system. Outside of China, the parcel is handed over to a local postal service, like USPS, DHL, FedEx, or Royal Mail. They will make sure that the parcel is delivered to your address or business.
Different transport means
Items ordered in China will have to go a long way. Usually, these parcels are either sent by airmail or by shipping container. There are quite a few steps that must be taken before the parcel reaches its destination. Big platforms like Alibaba, AliExpress, and Joybuy are working hard to improve the shipping and delivery times. They are building a large global logistics network to better cater to the needs of Western countries. But how the parcel is shipped is still mostly in the hands of the resellers and shop owners on the e-commerce platforms.
How to keep track of your shipment?
Shipping from China takes longer than shipping from many other countries. This is partly because of the distance, and partly because of the many parties involved in shipping your items. That is why it is extra important to keep good track of your shipment. You can use My Package Tracking for Yun Express shipment tracking, for example, to know exactly where your container or parcel is. You simply enter your tracking number, and you will get an immediate update on your shipment.
How long does the shipment take?
When ordering from China, you need to take into consideration that it can take anywhere from several days to several months before you will receive your package. How long the shipment takes depends on the type of products you ordered, the transport means, custom clearance, and the seller that you bought it from. Usually, a shipment takes between 10 and 90 days to get to the destination. It is up to the reseller or shop owner to select and offer a certain type of shipping. If you want shipping to be done faster or more reliable, you can take it up with the reseller. Especially if you are a big buyer, there is usually a lot that can be done to improve shipping.
