AliExpress Standard Shipping is one of the most popular delivery methods on the platform. Let's break down how it works, how it differs from other options, and how to track it correctly.
What is AliExpress Standard Shipping
AliExpress Standard Shipping is a logistics service from Cainiao, Alibaba's own carrier. Parcels pass through Cainiao warehouses in China and are then handed over to local postal operators in the destination country.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Delivery time | 12–30 days |
| Cost | Free or from $0.5 |
| Tracking | Full end-to-end |
| Max weight | 5 kg |
| Tracking format | LSAAXXXXXXXXCN / UPAAXXXXXXXXCN |
How tracking looks
AliExpress Standard Shipping tracking is one of the best among budget options — you can see every stage from the seller's warehouse to your door.
- 'Seller shipped' — seller handed parcel over
- 'Cainiao warehouse processing' — being processed at Cainiao warehouse
- 'Departed from warehouse' — shipped from China
- 'Arrived at destination country' — arrived in your country
- 'Handed over to local delivery' — passed to local post
- 'Out for delivery' / 'Delivered'
Tip: AliExpress Standard tracking numbers often work on both the Cainiao website and your local postal service. Check both.
Why it can take a long time
- Cainiao warehouse overload — especially during sale seasons (11.11, Black Friday)
- Long customs inspection in your country
- High parcel volume at the local post office
- Delayed address submission — seller is waiting to consolidate orders
AliExpress Standard vs other methods
| Method | Time | Price | Tracking |
|---|---|---|---|
| AliExpress Standard | 12–30 d. | Free | ★★★★★ |
| China Post Registered | 20–45 d. | $0–1 | ★★★☆☆ |
| ePacket | 12–25 d. | $2–5 | ★★★★☆ |
| Cainiao Premium | 7–15 d. | $8–20 | ★★★★★ |
| DHL Express | 3–7 d. | $20–50 | ★★★★★ |
Tips
- Don't panic if your parcel is stuck at 'In transit' for 5–10 days — this is normal
- If there's no movement after 40 days — message the seller, don't wait for 60
- Save your parcel in Trackora with a nickname — easy to find among other orders
- For expensive items, choose Cainiao Premium — it provides better loss protection
Note: Buyer protection on AliExpress is usually 75–90 days from the order date. Keep track of this deadline and open a dispute in advance if the parcel doesn't arrive.