One of the risks of ordering online is that, when you receive your order, the item you get may not match what you ordered. This happens on all e-commerce platforms, and AliExpress is no exception. Fortunately, however, it is possible to return the product—but only under certain conditions. Find out how to return an AliExpress item.
Understanding AliExpress's Return Policy
To handle product returns, the company has established a return policy that is easy to find at the bottom of its website. Simply put, you have two options, depending on the type of order you placed.
You can return your package for free if the seller has specified this. In fact, when you place your order, it is stated that the item is eligible for a free return in case of a problem. You’ll see the phrase “Free Returns.” It’s best to make sure you choose products that offer this benefit, so you aren’t caught off guard later on. Otherwise, things can get complicated…
Return shipping is not free
It’s worth noting that it’s often the inexpensive products that don’t offer free returns. In that case, you’re responsible for the shipping costs, and they can be so high that it’s better to just give up. However, don’t let that discourage you—it’s not over yet. You just need to take a different approach. Instead of returning the package at an exorbitant cost, ask the seller to refund. There are three ways to do this:
Request a full refund without returning the item
You are fully within your rights to file this complaint if the item you ordered arrives damaged or is completely different from what was advertised.
Request a partial refund without returning the item
Sometimes the package isn't exactly what you ordered, but you can still use it. Returning it would be very expensive, so a partial refund is reasonable.
Returns with a full refund
If your order has indeed arrived but you no longer want it for whatever reason, you can return it to the supplier and request a refund.
Returning an item that does not qualify for “free returns”
If returns aren't free, that means you'll have to pay the shipping costs. In that case, go to the website and search for the product:
- Click on the “Open a Dispute ” tab and request a full refund and return of the product.
- Return the item in its original packaging and seal it properly.
- For returns, sellers provide an address, so be sure to note your seller's address.
- We recommend that you return the item by certified mail. That way, you'll have proof that the package was received in China.
Please note that Aliexpress provides a form for returns. Once you have shipped the package, notify the seller of the shipping carrier and the tracking number listed on the form.
Tips for a Smooth Return
For whatever reason, if you’ve had to return an item you ordered, you certainly don’t want there to be any problems with the return. All it takes is a few simple precautions to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Compare several shipping companies
Generally, customers have 15 days to return a package if there’s a problem. If the return is free, the shipping company handling the return will depend on the seller. However, if you’re responsible for the return shipping costs, you might want to do a little research. Check with various shipping companies to find the one that best fits your budget. Once the package has been returned, AliExpress will process your refund within 3 to 20 days. The refund will be issued via the same payment method you used for the purchase.
Insurance, especially for valuables
It's best to insure your shipment, and this is especially recommended for valuable items. If you don't and the package gets lost along the way, you'll lose your money.
No registered package, but a registered letter
If the item you wish to return weighs less than 2 kg, it’s best to request that the package be sent by certified mail. That way, you could save nearly half on your shipping costs.
Returning an item with "free returns"
In this situation, you can return the package you received without providing any explanation, and the shipping costs will be covered by the supplier. To do so, follow these steps:
- On the platform where you purchased the item, search for the product and select “Return Merchandise.”
- A list will appear asking you to select the reason for returning the item. You can choose whichever reason you like; the return will be accepted in any case.
- Once AliExpress approves the dispute, all you have to do is select “Get a free return tracking number.” You’ll then receive a shipping label. Approval may take a day or two.
- Once you've downloaded and printed the label, you can repack the package in its original box and send it back safely.
- Don't forget to attach the " Free Return " label you printed to the package. You have 15 days to return the item from the time the return label was sent to you.
- The " " free return label is voided if the return isn't made within the specified time frame, so it's best to send it back as soon as you receive it to avoid losing your refund.
In addition, the refund process can take up to 15 days on AliExpress. To track your package, simply go to the order tracking section on the platform. Once it says “Package returned to sender,” you can start expecting your refund. Note that it is now possible to pay for purchases on AliExpress using PayPal . By doing so, you can request a refund for the order directly from PayPal through your own PayPal account.
Returning an AliExpress Item: A Summary
AliExpress is an online marketplace that makes products from China available worldwide. However, problems sometimes arise, requiring a return. To address this, the company has implemented an effective return policy, offering returns that may be free or require a fee, depending on the situation, and providing refunds when necessary.
