AllChinaBuy Shipping Guide: Methods, Costs & Delivery Times
Understanding International Shipping from China
Shipping from China to international destinations involves multiple carriers, customs processes, and delivery networks. AllChinaBuy works with a range of shipping partners to offer options at different price and speed points.
The key variables in international shipping are:
Weight and Dimensions: Shipping costs are calculated by actual weight or volumetric weight (whichever is greater). Bulky items like jackets and shoes can be expensive to ship even if they are not heavy.
Destination Country: Shipping rates and delivery times vary significantly by destination. Countries with well-developed postal networks (US, UK, Germany, Australia) generally have more options and better rates.
Carrier Selection: Different carriers have different strengths. Express carriers like DHL are fast but expensive. Economy options like EMS are slower but more affordable.
Consolidation: Combining multiple items into one shipment dramatically reduces per-item shipping costs. AllChinaBuy's warehouse consolidation service is one of its most valuable features.
Shipping Method Comparison
| Method | Speed | Cost Level | Tracking | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DHL Express | 3-7 days | High | Real-time | Urgent orders |
| EMS | 10-20 days | Medium | Full | Standard orders |
| YunExpress | 7-15 days | Medium-Low | Full | Best balance |
| ePacket | 15-30 days | Low | Basic | Small items |
| SAL | 20-45 days | Lowest | Limited | Non-urgent bulk |
The Consolidation Advantage
AllChinaBuy stores your items for free for up to 90 days. Use this time to accumulate multiple orders and ship them together. A consolidated package of 5 items typically costs 40-60% less per item than shipping each separately. This is the single biggest way to reduce your total haul cost.
Calculating Your Shipping Cost
Shipping costs are calculated based on the heavier of actual weight vs. volumetric weight:
Volumetric Weight Formula: (Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 5000 = Volumetric Weight in kg
For example, a shoebox measuring 35 × 25 × 15 cm has a volumetric weight of (35 × 25 × 15) ÷ 5000 = 2.625 kg, even if the actual shoes only weigh 1.2 kg.
This is why shoes and jackets are expensive to ship — their volumetric weight is much higher than their actual weight. T-shirts and accessories are much more shipping-efficient.
AllChinaBuy's shipping calculator gives you an estimate before you commit. Always check this before finalizing your consolidation.
Prohibited Items and Customs Restrictions
Some items cannot be shipped internationally or face strict customs scrutiny. Branded items may be flagged at customs in some countries. AllChinaBuy can advise on packaging and declaration, but ultimately you are responsible for compliance with your country's import regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which shipping method is best for sneakers?
YunExpress or EMS offer the best balance of cost and reliability for sneakers. DHL is faster but significantly more expensive for the volumetric weight of shoe boxes.
How long can I store items in the AllChinaBuy warehouse?
AllChinaBuy typically offers free storage for up to 90 days. After that, storage fees may apply. Check current terms on their website.
Can I track my package?
Yes, all major shipping methods include tracking. You can monitor your package through AllChinaBuy's dashboard or directly on the carrier's website.
What if my package is lost or damaged?
AllChinaBuy offers optional shipping insurance for valuable orders. Without insurance, compensation for lost packages depends on the carrier's liability policy.
