Table of Contents
- Introduction to Taobao
- How to Shop on Taobao in the USA
- How to Ship from Taobao to the US
- Restrictions on Items Shipped from Taobao to USA
- FAQs about Shipping from Taobao
- Final Thoughts
Taobao is one of the biggest online shopping platforms in China, but many international buyers, especially in the US, often wonder: "Does Taobao ship to the USA?" or "How to buy from Taobao in the US?"
Yes! Taobao does ship to the USA. You can use Taobao's international shipping service or a third-party freight forwarder to get your orders delivered to your US address. Shipping costs, delivery times, and restrictions may vary depending on the method you choose, so it's worth comparing options to find the best fit for your needs.
Introduction to Taobao
What Is Taobao?
Taobao is often referred to as the "Chinese version of AliExpress." It's a go-to shopping platform for many international buyers looking for affordable Chinese goods. With millions of sellers and a massive range of products, Taobao offers everything from clothing and electronics to home goods and specialty Chinese items.
Why Choose to Shop from Taobao?
Taobao offers competitive prices, a huge selection of products, and access to unique Chinese specialties, like premium tea, traditional Chinese medicine, and custom-made furniture. Plus, if you're looking for trendy fashion items, Taobao is one of the best places to shop.
How to Shop on Taobao in the USA
Can You Order From Taobao in America?
Yes, you can! However, many US-based shoppers face challenges such as account creation, language barriers, payment issues, and Taobao shipping to the US. But don't worry, we've got you covered with step-by-step guidance.
How to Register for a Taobao Account in the US?
- Use your US phone number to register (note: some users may not receive the verification code, so using an Alipay login is a great alternative).
- Download and register for an Alipay account, then use Alipay's quick login to access Taobao.
I have to say, once you link Alipay to your Taobao account, Xiaohongshu, Xianyu, and 1688, everything works together seamlessly, making your shopping experience much more convenient and integrated.
Besides using a mobile number, you can also log in to Taobao with Google, Apple, Facebook, or Alipay.
How to browse products on Taobao?
After logging in, you can switch Taobao to English, but note that the selection is more limited than the Chinese version. Alternatively, you can use Google Translate to help navigate the site.
- Go to "My Taobao" - "Settings".
- Select "Country/Region,Language,Currency".
- "Language" - "English
How to Buy Goods from Taobao?
- Set up your country, language, and currency in settings.
- "My Taobao" - "Settings"
- "Country, Language, Currency"
- "Country" - "Global"
- "Currency" - "USD US Dollar"
- Add your US shipping address in “Settings” → “Shipping Address”.
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For a 3rd-party forwarder warehouse (eg, JYS): Shenzhen City, Guangdong Province 18129855839 Postal Code: 518129
- For Your US Address: Select “USA” (USA), then fill in your street, city, state, phone number, and postal code.
❌ The Taobao app's international shipping section includes logistics options from third-party forwarders.✅ Third-party forwarder warehouses do not have international shipping options on the Taobao app. -
- Link your credit/debit card or use Apple Pay/Google Pay.
- Use a new Credit/Debit Card to enter your card details or pay with Apple Pay/Google Pay.
- Use a new Credit/Debit Card to enter your card details or pay with Apple Pay/Google Pay.
How to Ship from Taobao to the US
Does Taobao Support Shipping to the US?
Yes! Taobao does offer international shipping to the USA through its official global shipping service. However, not all products are eligible for direct international shipping. Some items may require the help of a third-party forwarder to reach your address.
Ways to Ship from Taobao to the US
1. Taobao International Shipping
Taobao provides an official international shipping service, which includes two main options:
- Direct Shipping: This includes air freight and sea freight , allowing you to ship eligible products straight to your US address.
-
Consolidated Shipping: This option lets you ship multiple items to a Taobao warehouse in China, where they are combined into one package and then sent to the US. This method includes economy air freight（集运空运经济） , standard air freight（集运空运标准） , and sea freight（集运海洋） .
If you're in a remote area or Taobao hasn't enabled international shipping for your region, your only shipping option is direct shipping.
Pros of Taobao International Shipping:
- Convenient and easy to use, as you can select the shipping option directly during checkout.
- Real-time tracking is available, allowing you to monitor your package's journey.
Cons of Taobao International Shipping:
- Additional taxes and duties apply; VAT and import fees must be paid upfront.
- Some items are restricted and may be rejected at the Taobao warehouse.
- Limited post-shipping customer support for international buyers.
2. Using a Third-Party Freight Forwarder
For items that cannot be shipped via Taobao's official logistics, or if you're looking for a more flexible shipping solution, third-party freight forwarders are a great alternative. These companies provide consolidation and repackaging services, and many offer cost-effective shipping options, including air and sea freight.
Pros of Third-Party Freight Forwarding:
- More flexible shipping options, allowing you to ship restricted items.
- Personalized customer service, including repackaging and storage options.
- Some freight forwarders offer tax-inclusive shipping, saving you from unexpected customs fees.
Cons of Third-Party Freight Forwarding:
- The quality and reliability of freight forwarders vary, so research is required.
- Using a freight forwarder adds extra steps to the shipping process.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship from Taobao to the US?
The cost of Taobao shipping to the US depends on the shipping method, weight, and dimensions of the package. Below are some estimated costs:
- Taobao International Shipping: Air shipping typically costs $11-$13 per kg, while sea shipping is usually cheaper but takes longer.
- Freight Forwarding: Prices vary by provider, but some offer bulk discounts or tax-inclusive pricing.
How Long Does Taobao Shipping Take to the US?
Shipping time varies depending on the method you choose. Whether you opt for Taobao International Shipping or a third-party forwarder, delivery times are similiar. Air shipping typically takes 7-15 days, while sea shipping can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days.
Contact us to get a quote nowRestrictions on Items Shipped from Taobao to USA
When you want to have items shipped to your USA address, it's important to know that Taobao International Shipping has more restrictions than third-party forwarders.
Some products can be purchased on Taobao, but when they are shipped to the Taobao warehouse, the warehouse may refuse to accept them.
In such cases, you will need to contact the seller for a refund, which can be quite troublesome.
To help avoid this, I've listed some sensitive items that Taobao warehouses may refuse to accept.
| Category | Products | Shipping Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Items | Phones, Laptops | Non - lithium batteries are okay. Air shipping only, likely to be rejected. |
| Liquids, Creams, Powders | Sunscreen, Toothpaste, Cosmetics | Limit to 500ml, no alcohol. Powders may be risky. Air shipping only, likely to be rejected. |
| Luxury Goods | Watches, Jewelry, Designer Bags | Air shipping only, likely to be rejected. |
| Magnetic Items | Speakers, Headphones | Strong magnets cannot be shipped. Air shipping only, likely to be rejected. |
| CDs & DVDs | Records, Films, Tapes | Subject to inspection. Air shipping only, likely to be rejected. |
| Prohibited Goods | Live Animals | Not allowed by both Taobao and third - party forwarders. |
| Prohibited Goods | Frozen Items | Not allowed by both Taobao and third - party forwarders. |
| Prohibited Goods | Flammable Items | Not allowed by both Taobao and third - party forwarders. |
| Prohibited Goods | Alcohol-based Liquids | Not allowed by both Taobao and third - party forwarders. |
| Prohibited Goods | White Powder | Not allowed by both Taobao and third - party forwarders. |
| Additional Info | Sensitive Goods | Third - party forwarders can handle sensitive goods at reasonable prices. |
FAQs about Shipping from Taobao
Does Taobao ship to America?
Yes, Taobao supports shipping to the US, either through direct shipping or third-party freight forwarders.
How to buy from Taobao in the US?
You need to register an account, set up a payment method, and choose a shipping option that suits your needs.
Can I pay on Taobao with a US credit card?
Yes, Taobao accepts international credit cards. However, using Alipay for payments is often more convenient.
Are there customs fees when shipping from Taobao to the US?
Yes, depending on the total value and type of goods, customs duties may apply when importing from China.
Is Taobao cheaper than AliExpress?
Generally, yes! Taobao has lower prices, but it requires knowledge of Chinese and a reliable shipping method.
Final Thoughts
Shopping on Taobao from the US is possible and can be quite rewarding! With the right approach, you can access a vast range of affordable products and ship them to your doorstep seamlessly. Now that you know how Taobao shipping to the US works, why not start shopping today?
