Top 20 Sites Like AliExpress for Product Sourcing
When sellers source products for resale, many turn to AliExpress for its vast product selection and competitive prices. However, it’s not always the best fit, as some businesses need alternatives that provide faster shipping, better product quality, or other specific features. Fortunately, there are plenty of other platforms that may suit your needs more effectively.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best AliExpress alternatives and share tips for more efficient product sourcing.
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Why Consider Alternatives to AliExpress
While AliExpress is widely used, it also comes with several significant drawbacks that should be considered when sourcing products. Based on reviews and discussions from Reddit and Quora, here are the key issues with this option:
Delivery times: Ordering from China can result in delivery times of over two weeks, which is unacceptable for dropshipping.
Customs fees: Importing products from China may lead to unexpected customs fees, which can be unpleasant for both businesses and customers, who might even refuse delivery.
Product quality: Many products don't meet high-quality standards, leading to dissatisfaction and returns.
Customer support: Many users report that their customer service is virtually non-existent, which causes complicated returns and other order issues.
These factors make it worth considering alternatives. Below, we’ll explore other websites similar to AliExpress that may offer better options for your business.
20 Alternative Sites to AliExpress
Choosing an alternative to AliExpress depends largely on your business model and product type. Below is a list of platforms that offer low prices and support both single-item purchases and dropshipping. Below you’ll find 20 sites like AliExpress:
1. Shiatea
Shiatea is a reputable tea supplier based in India that supports single purchases, dropshipping, and wholesale orders. They hold all of the necessary certifications approved by the Indian government and offer a diverse selection of teas, including sample sets for testing. Orders over $10 qualify for free shipping, although customs fees may still apply.
2. Amazon
Amazon, a leading eCommerce platform, offers great sourcing opportunities during sales. You might also consider exploring Amazon return pallets or liquidation pallets, which are sold directly by Amazon. These can include new products at significantly reduced prices, available for purchase as entire pallets or individual items. However, always remember to check item conditions to ensure that they meet your quality standards.
3. DHgate
DHgate lets you purchase individual items directly from manufacturers at wholesale prices, making it an attractive option for those looking for affordable products. This platform offers a wide range of product types, from electronics to fashion. However, be cautious of extended delivery times and potential instances of counterfeit or replica items.
4. Taobao
Taobao is a popular Chinese e-commerce platform renowned for its unbeatable prices and vast selection of products. However, international buyers may struggle with this option due to language barriers and the complexities of shipping. While there is an international version, keep in mind that it's also mainly geared towards bulk purchases, which can limit options for smaller orders.
5. Temu
Known for its incredibly low prices and attractive shipping options, Temu offers fast delivery and eliminates customs fees on orders under $800. However, buyers should be aware of potential quality concerns and the risk of encountering replica items. For those interested in dropshipping with Temu, check out this detailed guide for helpful tips and advice.
6. SHEIN
When it comes to sourcing fashion products like clothing and accessories, Shein is a top contender. This platform boasts a wide selection of trendy styles, so you can meet your customers' demands and stay ahead in the fashion market. While its prices may be a bit higher compared to similar platforms, its worldwide locations help reduce shipping costs, customs fees, and delivery times.
7. Chinavasion
Chinavasion specializes in electronics and offers competitive prices, including a section with products under $9.99. With fast delivery and a solid refund policy, this is a reliable option for sourcing tech items, including car-related products. However, be aware that many items contain batteries, so if you plan to resell on platforms like Amazon, you'll need to provide the required certification.
8. LightInTheBox
LightInTheBox frequently offers discounts and promotions on a variety of already budget-friendly products. With available shipping to over 200 countries and an average delivery time of about two weeks, it’s a great option for international buyers. However, be cautious with their clothing sizes, as they may not always align with standard size charts.
9. StyleKorean
StyleKorean offers a wide range of affordable products, including cosmetics, food, and K-pop merchandise. Known for fast delivery and a reputation for authenticity, this is a trusted platform for sourcing trendy items. Many products are also featured on TikTok, making them easier to market and sell. Additionally, they offer international shipping, which can help to expand your potential customer base worldwide.
10. Hypercape
Hypercape is a Korean platform specializing in premium and luxury cosmetics. While its prices may not be the lowest, the platform offers a prepayment feature that can save you up to 16%, making it more affordable for resellers. Additionally, the platform supports dropshipping, with an app available for Shopify integration, allowing you to minimize your expenses and streamline your operations.
11. eBay
eBay is a popular marketplace for sourcing both new and used products at competitive prices. With auctions and direct purchases from brands and manufacturers, this platform offers flexible buying options. You can also find liquidation and wholesale deals, making it a great choice for resellers. However, be sure to check seller ratings and product conditions before purchasing.
12. SaleHoo
SaleHoo is often considered the New Zealand version of Alibaba, except it also supports dropshipping, making it an excellent platform for resellers. With access to a network of trusted suppliers, SaleHoo ensures product quality and reliable shipping options. Additionally, the platform provides valuable resources and training for new entrepreneurs looking to build a successful dropshipping business.
13. Newegg
Based in the USA, Newegg is one of the most trusted companies for sourcing electronics, and is known for offering discounts and bundle deals that provide extra value. While prices may be higher than those on Chinese websites, Newegg products come with all of the necessary certifications for resale and have a reputation for excellent quality with minimal issues reported.
14. ThriftBooks
While paper books might seem outdated in the digital age, the global books market is projected to generate nearly $95 billion in revenue in 2025. If you're looking to source books, consider ThriftBooks, which offers both new and used books at competitive prices. You can find books in very good condition for as low as $4, with free shipping on orders over $15. Plus, ThriftBooks has a convenient app to make browsing and purchasing even easier.
15. Joom
Joom is a rapidly growing marketplace known for its wide range of products, including home decor, kitchen essentials, and more. This platform features over two million items in its catalog, so you can find products for as little as $1. There’s even an outlet section with lower prices. However, keep in mind that delivery times can be long, and customs fees may apply depending on your location.
16. You2Sell
You2Sell allows you to buy single products at wholesale prices with no minimum order quantity (MOQ). It integrates seamlessly with Amazon, eBay, and Shopify, making it a convenient option for dropshipping. You2Sell /specializes in clothing and apparel, and is known for offering a good balance between price and quality, according to customer reviews. Since the company is based in the U.K., customs fees may apply for international orders.
17. 1688
1688 is primarily known as a wholesale supplier, but many sellers offer a minimum order quantity (MOQ) of just 1-2 pieces, allowing you to buy single products at wholesale prices. The platform’s prices are extremely low, and while it mainly serves the local Chinese market, several logistics companies provide streamlined shipping options to enhance your shopping experience.
18. Lazada
Lazada is a Malaysian marketplace where you can find products for extremely low prices, such as children's water mattresses for as little as $0.20. It offers a 15-day free return policy and is available for international shopping. However, many products may not come with a warranty, and the quality can vary, so it's important to check seller ratings and reviews.
19. Shopee
Shopee is another popular Southeast Asian marketplace offering a wide range of products at competitive prices, from electronics to fashion and home goods. Known for its frequent sales and an engaging shopping experience, this platform stands out compared to Lazada by offering cheaper shipping prices. Additionally, Shopee's user-friendly interface makes it easy to shop and discover deals.
20. Nykaa
Nykaa is an Indian platform primarily focused on beauty products, with a growing selection of fashion items. It offers international brands at affordable prices, often with discounts. While the prices may be slightly higher than on Chinese platforms, Nykaa provides authenticity certificates for its products. Although Nykaa doesn’t ship internationally, it offers free shipping on orders over $3.50, with many Indian logistics companies assisting with international deliveries.
Each of the above-mentioned platforms has its own pros and cons that need careful consideration to ensure alignment with your business goals. Comparing characteristics like shipping times, return policies, and more can help you make the best choice. Now, let's take a look at other factors that can improve the sourcing process.
Tips for Sellers
Finding a platform better than AliExpress can benefit your business, but there are other key strategies that can further enhance your success. Here are the top four to consider:
Selecting the Right Products
While AliExpress offers low prices, sourcing just any cheap product won’t guarantee high profits. It’s also important to research products thoroughly to identify those that are worth your time and investment. While profitability parameters may vary depending on your business, a few key factors are universally important to ensure that you select the right products:
Sales: A product should generate over 200 sales/month to ensure demand.
Weight: Aim for products that weigh less than 5 lbs to minimize shipping costs.
Competition: If you're selling on an online marketplace, look for listings with fewer than 15 competitors to stand out.
Margin: Ensure a profit margin of at least 20% to cover expenses and allow room for growth.
Checking these parameters manually can be time-consuming, so it’s much more efficient to use analytical tools. For those selling on Amazon, the AMZScout toolkit is a great option. This user-friendly tool helps you generate profitable product ideas, calculate potential profits, gain AI insights on whether a product is a good fit for your store, and much more.
By incorporating these insights into your approach, you can make well-informed sourcing decisions, and ensure that your investments are worthwhile and aligned with customer demand for sustained business growth.
Sourcing from Specialized Websites
When possible, source your products from specialized websites. These platforms are dedicated to specific industries or niches, and offer a more tailored selection, higher quality, and potentially better prices than generic marketplaces.
For example, if you're selling tea, it’s wiser to source it from a specialized tea website that offers a broader selection, unique packaging options, and higher-quality products compared to a general eCommerce platform.
By focusing on niche websites, you’ll be able to differentiate your business and offer products that meet your target audience's expectations.
Verifying Platform Reliability
Before placing an order, especially when sourcing from platforms like AliExpress or other alternatives, thorough research is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises. Here’s how to verify a platform’s credibility:
Google: Type the website’s name followed by "scam" or "reviews" to see if there are any red flags.
Check reviews and ratings: Look for reviews and feedback from previous customers to gauge the quality and reliability of the platform or a supplier on the marketplace.
Explore forums: Platforms like Reddit and Quora often feature discussions where fellow sellers have shared their own sourcing experiences, helping you make informed decisions.
By doing this, you’ll keep your business safe from potential risks, and ensure that you’re working with trustworthy platforms.
Diversifying Sourcing Options
Relying on a single platform can expose your business to risks such as inventory shortages, shipping delays, or inconsistent product quality. To safeguard your business, consider diversifying your sourcing base. Working with multiple suppliers not only gives you backup options but also allows you to choose the best offer. Additionally, this will enable you to discover more products and services, as one platform might lack certain things that another offers.
In time, you'll gain a better understanding of which platform best suits your needs and other factors can make your sourcing more efficient. By continuously monitoring your performance, you'll be able to make data-driven decisions that will help improve your business.
Conclusion
When searching for an alternative to AliExpress, keep in mind that success isn’t just about the platform you choose—it also depends on selecting the right products. Consider using the AMZScout toolkit to help you identify high-demand items that can help you make money. This will allow you to lay a solid foundation for your business and maximize your chances of success.
