10 common mistakes to avoid before buying on Aliexpress

You’re about to shop on AliExpress and want to avoid the most common pitfalls? This guide helps you spot frequent mistakes so you can buy safely and get the best price.

From choosing the right seller to dealing with customs fees, we go over the missteps to avoid so your shopping experience remains smooth and stress-free.

1. Not checking reviews and the seller’s reputation

Customer reviews and the seller’s rating are reliable indicators. They let you assess the product’s quality and the seller’s seriousness: see more here.

• Read product reviews to check buyers’ feedback.
• Check overall reviews on recent orders visible on the seller’s profile.
• Be cautious with items that have very few orders; they can be risky.

2. Buying counterfeits

Branded products sold at abnormally low prices are often counterfeits. This can lead to quality issues and possible customs penalties.

• Check the seller’s certification.
• Read buyers’ comments to identify authentic products.
• Favor official stores and well-rated sellers.

3. Relying solely on product images

Promotional images can be misleading and might not reflect the actual product.

• Look at photos uploaded by buyers to see the real product.
• Compare multiple offers to spot any differences.
• Read the product description for details on materials and dimensions.

4. Ignoring the product description

Not reading the description can lead to unpleasant surprises when your order arrives.

• Check the listed dimensions and materials.
• Make sure the product matches your expectations.
• For clothing, always consult the seller’s size chart, as Asian sizes differ from European standards.

5. Choosing slow shipping by mistake

Some shipping methods can take several weeks, or even months.

• Select shipping from a European warehouse if possible.
• Choose a faster delivery option if you need the product quickly.
• Check the estimated delivery time before finalizing your order.

6. Not reading return conditions

Return policies vary from one seller to another and are not always in the buyer’s favor.

• Check return and refund conditions before buying.
• Make sure the seller accepts returns if there’s a problem.
• Choose sellers with a clear and detailed return policy.

7. Forgetting about customs fees

Some products may incur taxes upon arrival, especially orders over €150.

• Learn about your country’s customs regulations.
• Avoid very large orders to reduce the risk.
• Prefer sellers who offer shipping from within Europe.

AliExpress Customs Fees : The Explanatory Guide

8. Ignoring the “Questions & Answers” section

This section is often useful to get more information about the product.

• Check the questions answered by other buyers.
• Ask the seller if you have doubts about product features.
• Make sure electronic products are compatible with European standards (plugs, frequencies, etc.).

9. Not using the AliExpress app

The AliExpress app offers several advantages over the website.

• Access exclusive deals and additional discounts.
• Receive notifications to track your orders in real time.
• Enjoy better usability for reading reviews and comparing products.

10. Not comparing prices between sellers

The same product can be sold at very different prices depending on the seller.

• Compare multiple listings before placing your order.
• Check shipping costs, which can vary and affect the final price.
• Beware of extremely low prices, as they often indicate counterfeits or poor-quality products.

Conclusion

You now know the mistakes to avoid when shopping on AliExpress. By taking the time to check reviews, read the product description, and compare prices, you reduce unpleasant surprises.

Pay attention to customs fees, delivery times, and return policies to avoid any issues.

By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can shop on AliExpress with confidence and enjoy the best deals without worry.