Is AliExpress Legit? How To Shop Deals Safely

By: Mary Elizabeth Hammond

When browsing the products on AliExpress, it’s hard not to wonder if the prices are too good to be true. This bargain marketplace offers just about every product you can think of—from electronics to clothing and everything in between—at crazy low prices. You may have scoured AliExpress reviews wondering if they can be trusted. Is AliExpress safe for discount shoppers? Groupon Coupons did some digging to find out. 

Savings tip: Check out our collection of AliExpress coupons to save on your next order. 

What is AliExpress?

AliExpress is a discount retailer owned by the Alibaba Group that connects small businesses from China and elsewhere with shoppers all over the world. You can shop for clothing, electronics, jewelry, appliances, toys, beauty products, home improvement, and decor all at a major discount. 

How Does AliExpress Work?

A majority of sellers on AliExpress are based in China and use Chinese manufacturers—hence the low prices. With most products coming from China, you can expect longer shipping times (sometimes more than a month). 

AliExpress will require you to sign up for a free account to buy anything. To sign up, click “Account” in the top right corner of the AliExpress home page and a pop-up window will show up prompting you to sign up with an email or via Google, Facebook, Apple, or Twitter. 

Find a full explainer of how AliExpress works in our AliExpress user guide here. 

Bottom Line: Is AliExpress Legit?

As far as we can tell, yes. But while the corporation and website are legit, you may still encounter dodgy sellers and counterfeit products. The good news is that AliExpress does offer some Buyer Protection and a Money-Back Guarantee to give you a little more peace of mind. 

AliExpress Money Back Guarantee

AliExpress promises you’ll get your money back if you received an item that is not as described or is not delivered within 60 days. You can expect a full refund up to 15 days after the claim has been processed. 

How to Request a Refund

1. Sign in to your My AliExpress account
2. Select “Transaction/Order” on the item that you’d like a refund for
3. Click “Open Dispute” and fill out the info on your item and grievance there

AliExpress Buyer Protection

The AliExpress offers Buyer Protection that ensures:

• A secure online payment platform
• A full refund if you don’t receive your item within 60 days (It should be noted that refunds are not given if your order didn’t arrive on time due to factors not within the buyers’ control—i.e. natural disasters, you refuse customs clearance, etc.)
• A full refund if the item was not as described or is counterfeit