Navigating return policies on global e-commerce platforms can feel like walking through a maze. AliExpress is no exception. As cross-border shopping continues to surge, many buyers are left wondering: "What if the product arrives late, damaged, or just not what I expected?"

This guide breaks down the AliExpress return and refund policy in 2025 in clear, practical language. You'll learn what kinds of returns are allowed, how to initiate them, important deadlines, and tips to maximize your chances of success. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned shopper, this article is your one-stop reference to make returns less stressful.

Why This Matters (and Why You Should Care)

  • Cross-border complexity: Unlike domestic e-commerce, international returns can be costly and complicated.

  • Buyer protection risk: Knowing your rights and limitations is your best defense if things go wrong.

  • Policy changes: AliExpress has updated aspects of its return policy and "free return" offerings in recent years.

  • Better decision-making: Understanding returns helps you decide whether to risk buying from a distant seller or stick with local alternatives.

What Is AliExpress Buyer Protection?

Buyer Protection is the safety net AliExpress offers to consumers against issues like non-delivery, misrepresentation, or defective goods. It ensures you can apply for a refund (with or without a return) under certain conditions.

Key aspects:

  • If an item never arrives within the promised delivery window, you may request a full refund.

  • If the item is significantly different from what was advertised (wrong color, size, functionality), you can claim a refund or a "return & refund" option.

  • If you open a dispute and the seller doesn't resolve it, AliExpress steps in as an arbitrator.

However, Buyer Protection does not cover everything, and success depends heavily on acting within the correct timeframes and providing strong evidence.

Types of Refunds & Returns

1. Refund Only (No Return)

This is the simplest scenario: you keep the product, and AliExpress (or the seller) refunds you part or all of your payment. This often happens when:

  • The item never arrived.

  • It's broken beyond use or completely wrong.

  • Returning it would cost more than its value.

Because international return shipping is expensive, many sellers accept the "refund only" route rather than insist on getting the product back.

2. Return & Refund

This is the classic approach: you send back the item (in acceptable condition), and then you get refunded.

  • You must ship it back (often with tracking).

  • If the seller is part of AliExpress's Free Return program, shipping may be free (see next section).

  • After seller confirmation (or AliExpress mediation), you receive your money.

3. Free Return Program

AliExpress has introduced a Free Return option in select regions and under specific conditions.

What Free Return means:

  • You can return an eligible item for any reason (change of mind included) within a set window (e.g. 15 days from delivery).

  • The seller covers the return shipping cost or AliExpress arranges a local return address.

  • You must keep the item unused, with original packaging, tags, seals intact.

Eligibility constraints:

  • Only some items and sellers participate.

  • Some product types (e.g. perishable, customized goods) are excluded.

  • The free return label will be provided by AliExpress.

Example: In the US, "Free Return" is clearly marked on product pages; eligible items must be unused and returned within 15 days after delivery.

How the Return / Refund Process Works

1. Opening a Dispute

  1. Go to My Orders in your AliExpress account.

  2. Choose the relevant order and click "Open Dispute."

  3. Select either Refund Only or Return & Refund based on your issue.

  4. Upload supporting evidence: photos, videos, screenshots, tracking info, etc. The more clear and compelling your evidence, the stronger your claim.

When you open the dispute, AliExpress pauses the release of funds to the seller until resolution.

2. Evidence & Documentation

Strong evidence is crucial:

  • Photos from different angles (packaging, product condition, defects).

  • Unboxing videos (to show no tampering).

  • Screenshots of the listing versus the received item.

  • Tracking updates and timestamped delivery logs.

  • Communication with the seller.

AliExpress will scrutinize your evidence against the seller's response.

3. Seller Response & Escalation

After you file:

  • The seller has a set timeframe to respond, propose solutions, or reject your claim.

  • You can negotiate with the seller — sometimes they offer partial refunds or replacements.

  • If no agreement is reached, you can escalate to AliExpress for arbitration. AliExpress will review all submitted evidence and make a final ruling.

4. Refunds Timeline

Once a dispute is approved:

  • Refunds usually take 3–20 business days, depending on payment method, region, and bank processing.

  • If you canceled an order before shipping, a refund might occur faster.

  • If the seller sends a return address or label, processing might take additional days.

Important Time Limits and Deadlines

Adhering to deadlines is critical in the AliExpress return/refund system. Miss a timeline, and your request may be voided.

Type of Action Time Limit / Deadline Notes
Buyer Protection period Commonly 60–90 days from order (varies) Some regions mention 75 days buyer protection.
Return window ("Free Return") Usually within 15 days after delivery Only for eligible items and sellers.
Dispute opening Within "Buyer Protection" or specified period (often 15 days after order completion or delivery) Delay may invalidate your case.
Cancel before shipping Typically before seller ships After shipping, cancellation is not possible; must go through return.
Seller response time Varied — typically a few days If seller fails to respond in time, dispute may auto-escalate.

Tip: In many cases, you can request an extension of the Buyer Protection / dispute period via the order details page if your deadline is approaching.

What Items Are Not Eligible for Return

AliExpress excludes certain categories and conditions from returns or refund eligibility:

  • Custom-made or personalized items.

  • Perishable or consumable products (food, cosmetics after opening).

  • Health & hygiene items (e.g. undergarments) once the seal is broken.

  • Digital goods or services (e.g. downloadable files).

  • Items over a certain maximum declared value (in some cases).

  • Products not returned in original condition (missing packaging, tags, used to the point that resale value is compromised).

  • Items that are excluded by the seller's policy (if clearly stated in listing). Always check the product page.

If you're unsure whether a product is eligible, review the specific listing and seller's policies before purchase.

Common Challenges and Risks

1. High Return Shipping Costs

Shipping internationally (especially from your country to China) can be more expensive than the product itself. Some buyers report paying more in shipping fees than they get refunded.

2. Seller Refusal or Delay

Some sellers may ignore dispute deadlines, refuse to respond, or fight your claim even when evidence is strong.

3. AliExpress Decision Goes in Seller's Favor

Even when you think the case is solid, AliExpress may rule in favor of the seller if they find your evidence weak or inconclusive.

4. "Non-Delivery" Disputes Are Hard to Prove

If the tracking shows "delivered" but you never received the item, it's your responsibility to prove you didn't get it. Without strong proof, your claim may be denied.

5. Policy Changes / Inconsistent Rules

Policies like "Free Return" are still being rolled out regionally, and rules may differ from country to country. Always check the latest terms on your platform version.

Tips to Improve Return Success

To minimize problems, follow these strategies:

  1. Document thoroughly
    • Record unboxing videos

    • Take clear photos of product and packaging

    • Keep receipts, tracking info, and screenshots of listing

  2. Open dispute early
    Do not wait until days before the deadline—if it passes, your claim is invalid.

  3. Ask the seller first
    Politely message the seller before opening a dispute. Sometimes they agree to partial refunds or replacements.

  4. Request extension
    If you see your Buyer Protection period nearing its end, ask for an extension.

  5. Use "Free Return" items where possible
    For riskier purchases, prefer products clearly marked as "Free Return." That gives you more flexibility.

  6. Know your local postal rules
    In some countries, refusing delivery or returning parcel to sender may or may not count. Always check local courier policies.

  7. Be realistic about small purchases
    For very low-cost items, the cost and effort of dispute may outweigh the benefit.

Return Policy Variations by Country / Region

Though AliExpress aims to maintain consistent global policies, actual return experiences depend on your location. Below are some differences:

Region / Country Common Return Features Special Notes
United States Free Return for eligible items within 15 days; standard global return allowed Only certain sellers/regions support free return.
European Union EU consumer protection laws may partially apply, but not guaranteed if purchased from outside the EU. Some buyer rights may conflict with AliExpress internal rules.
Rest of World (e.g. Asia, Africa, Latin America) Standard global return applies; "Free Return" availability is less consistent Shipping costs may be higher; local return warehouses may not exist

Because policies vary, always check the product page and your order's terms before purchasing.

FAQs about AliExpress Return Policy

AliExpress allows buyers to request a refund or return if an item is not delivered, arrives damaged, or differs significantly from its description. In most cases, you must open a dispute within the Buyer Protection period (typically 60–90 days). Depending on the situation, you may receive a full or partial refund — sometimes without needing to send the item back.

The Free Return program lets customers in select countries return eligible products for any reason within 15 days of delivery — even if they simply change their mind. AliExpress provides a prepaid return label or local return address, meaning you won't pay for shipping. Items must be unused and in original packaging to qualify.

Yes. If your order never arrives, arrives defective, or is significantly different from what was advertised, AliExpress may approve a "Refund Only" request. In such cases, you keep the product and receive compensation, usually because the cost of returning it internationally would exceed its value.

Refunds on AliExpress typically take 3–20 business days once approved. The exact timeline depends on your payment method, location, and bank processing speed. If you cancel an order before it ships, the refund is usually processed faster.

Certain categories cannot be returned, including:

  • Custom-made or personalized items

  • Perishable or consumable goods

  • Opened health or hygiene products

  • Digital goods or services

  • Items not in original condition (used, damaged, missing packaging)

Always review the individual product page for specific seller restrictions before purchase.

To open a dispute:

  1. Go to My Orders on your AliExpress account.

  2. Select the order and click "Open Dispute."

  3. Choose either Refund Only or Return & Refund.

  4. Upload proof such as photos, videos, or tracking details.

If you and the seller can't agree, you can escalate the dispute, and AliExpress will make a final decision based on your evidence.

If tracking shows "Delivered" but you didn't receive your package, contact your local courier first to verify delivery details. Then, open a dispute on AliExpress with supporting evidence — such as proof from the courier or a non-delivery statement. Clear documentation greatly increases your chances of a refund.

No. Once the Buyer Protection or return window expires, you generally cannot request a refund or open a dispute. However, if your delivery is delayed, you can extend Buyer Protection before it ends to keep your order covered until it arrives.

Not exactly. While AliExpress applies a global standard, return options and costs vary by region. Countries like the United States offer the 15-day Free Return program, while others rely on standard international returns, where the buyer may pay for shipping. Always check local return terms on the product page before purchasing.

To strengthen your case:

  • Keep unboxing videos and clear photos of the item and packaging.

  • Open disputes early — don't wait until your protection period ends.

  • Communicate politely with the seller and document all messages.

  • Choose Free Return listings when available for added security.

Strong evidence and prompt action are the keys to fast and fair resolutions.

Conclusion & Key Takeaways

AliExpress's return and refund system is more forgiving than many expect—but it's not perfect. To make returns less of a headache, here's what to remember:

  • Know the deadlines: You must act before Buyer Protection / return windows expire.

  • Document everything: Photos, videos, tracking and correspondence strengthen your case.

  • Prefer Free Return listings: When available, they reduce your risk.

  • Open disputes promptly: Don't wait until the last minute.

  • Be strategic: For very cheap items, accept minor losses rather than fierce battles over small amounts.

Final advice: Always review the return policy on the product page before you complete a purchase. When in doubt, message the seller to clarify return terms. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be better prepared for any surprises on your next AliExpress order.