Lucky LongThe short answer is yes—Taobao does ship to the US, but the process involves specific methods, logistics options, and considerations. Below is a detailed breakdown, to help US shoppers understand how Taobao shipping works, including steps, costs, and tips:
1. How Taobao Ships to the US
Taobao itself doesn’t directly handle international shipping to the US—instead, it relies on two main methods: official logistics partners and third-party freight forwarders.
Cainiao Super Economy for Global（Alibaba’s official logistics）
Integrated into Taobao’s checkout process: When placing an order, select “Cainiao Global” as the shipping method.
Cainiao coordinates with local US carriers (e.g., USPS) for final delivery.
Suitable for light, low-value items (e.g., accessories, small gadgets).
Third-Party Freight Forwarders
You first ship Taobao orders to a forwarder’s warehouse in China (the forwarder provides a Chinese address).
The forwarder consolidates your items, handles customs clearance, and ships them to the US via carriers like DHL, FedEx, or sea freight.
Suitable for bulk orders, large items (e.g., furniture, electronics), or when you want faster shipping.
2. Step-by-Step Guide for US Shoppers
Option 1: Using Cainiao Global
1. Switch Taobao to English: Open Taobao App/website → Go to “My Taobao” → “Settings” → “Language & Region” → Select “English”. (“我的淘宝”→“设置”→“语言与地区”→选择 “English”)
2. Search for “Global Shipping Eligible” Items: Look for the “Global” tag on product pages (indicates the seller supports Cainiao international shipping).
3. Checkout & Select Shipping: Add items to cart → Proceed to checkout → Enter your US address (in English) → Choose “Cainiao Super Economy for Global” → Pay for the order (including shipping fee).
4. Track Your Package: Go to “My Taobao” → “My Orders” → Click the order to view the Cainiao tracking number. Use it on Cainiao’s website to track delivery to the US.
Option 2: Using a Freight Forwarder
1. Choose a Reliable Forwarder: Popular options for US shoppers include 4PX, ShipBob, or Taobao’s recommended forwarders (listed in “International Shipping” guides).
2. Get the Forwarder’s Chinese Address: The forwarder will provide a unique Chinese warehouse address (include your personal ID code to link your packages).
3. Shop on Taobao with the Chinese Address: When checking out on Taobao, enter the forwarder’s Chinese address as the “shipping address” (fill in Chinese as required).
4. Notify the Forwarder & Pay for Shipping: Once the forwarder receives your Taobao packages, they’ll notify you via email. You can then choose a US shipping method (e.g., DHL for speed, sea freight for cost) and pay the international shipping fee.
3. Key Considerations for US Shipping
Shipping Costs:
Cainiao Super Economy: Typically $2-$15 for small items (delivery time: 2-4 weeks).
Freight Forwarders: Costs vary by weight/size (e.g., $30-$100 for a 5kg package via DHL, 1-3 days; $10-$30 via sea freight, 4-8 weeks).
Customs Duties & Taxes:
US Customs may charge duties on items over $800 (the de minimis threshold). For example, electronics may have a 2.6% duty rate, clothing 16.9%.
Cainiao or forwarders will usually assist with customs declaration, but you’re responsible for paying any applicable duties/taxes.
Prohibited Items:
Taobao and US Customs ban items like lithium batteries (in some cases), weapons, counterfeit goods, and fresh food. Check the US Customs website before shopping.
Seller Eligibility:
Not all Taobao sellers support international shipping. Always check for the “Global” tag (for Cainiao) or confirm with sellers if they ship to forwarders’ Chinese addresses.
4. Alternative: Taobao Global (Easier for US Users)
If you want a simpler experience, download the Taobao Global App (available on App Store/Google Play). It’s designed for international users:
Pre-translated English pages.
Direct US shipping options (no need for forwarders).
Accepted payment methods: International credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), PayPal.
