Returning products

Product Development & Sourcing

Topic summary

AliExpress suppliers typically do not accept direct returns from dropshipping customers. Returns usually must be sent to the dropshipper’s address unless a special arrangement exists with the supplier.

Exceptions where suppliers may accept returns:

  • Product arrives defective or damaged
  • Supplier explicitly states they accept returns (rare)

Recommended solutions for handling returns:

  • Refund customers and let them keep low-cost items to avoid return logistics
  • Contact suppliers for replacements on defective products without requiring returns
  • Offer partial refunds for minor issues
  • Use third-party fulfillment services or local return addresses

Best practices to minimize return issues:

  • Work with highly-rated suppliers who have clear refund policies
  • Display transparent return policies on your website
  • Consider suppliers with US/European warehouses for easier return logistics
  • Contact suppliers via messaging before ordering to confirm their return policies

The discussion remains open with no specific resolution, as handling returns in dropshipping requires case-by-case coordination between dropshipper, customer, and supplier.

Summarized with AI on October 30. AI used: claude-sonnet-4-5-20250929.
1

Hello

I am dropshipping Aliexpress products. If a customer returns a product can it go back to the supplier or can it only come back to my address.

Thanks John260

1 Like
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Hello. @john260

AliExpress dropshipping doesn’t usually sent back returns to suppliers.

Most suppliers, including AliExpress suppliers do not accept returns unless;

  1. The product is defective or damaged on arrival.
  2. Possible but rare occasions where suppliers explicitly state they accept returns.

You can provide return solutions with the following;

  1. Refund the customer and let them keep the item if it is a low cost item, rather than dealing with returns.
  2. Contact the seller for a new replacement if the product is defective. Some sellers may honor the request without requiring a return.
  3. For a minor issue, offer a partial refund or discount to satisfy the customer.
  4. Use a third party fulfillment service or you can resell or dispose of the returned product if you wish for a local address return.

To avoid future return issues,

  1. Work with sellers with good ratings and refund policies.
  2. State clear return policies and how it works on your website.
  3. If possible, utilize AliExpress suppliers that have warehouses in the U.S and Europe, which will make returns easy.
2 Likes
3

Hi @john260

Normally, AliExpress suppliers don’t take direct returns from your customers since they ship to them initially, so returns would normally come back to your address unless you have a special arrangement with your supplier. I would recommend reaching out to your AliExpress supplier via their messaging system to confirm their return policy. Some will offer a return-to-supplier option if you cover shipping.

To smooth it out, have a clear return policy in your store, like having customers ship to you first, then you handle supplier coordination. You can also look into a local return address or third-party service to make it easier.

1 Like
4

Normally, AliExpress suppliers do not accept direct returns from your customers because they ship to them first, thus returns are typically returned to your address unless you have a special arrangement with your supplier. I would consider contacting your AliExpress supplier through their chat system to confirm their return policies. Some will allow you to return the item to the source if you pay for postage.

To ease things out, provide a clear return policy in your store, such as having customers ship to you first, and then handling supplier cooperation. You might also consider using a local return address or a third-party service to make things easier.

5

Normally, AliExpress suppliers do not accept direct returns from your customers because they ship to them first, thus returns are typically returned to your address unless you have a special arrangement with your supplier. I’d recommend contacting your AliExpress supplier via their chat system to confirm their return policy. Some will allow you to return the item to the source if you pay for postage.

To ease things out, provide a clear return policy in your store, such as having customers ship to you first, and then handling supplier cooperation. You might also consider using a local return address or a third-party service to make things easier.

6

Hi @john260 ,

This is a pretty common question when you’re dropshipping from platforms like AliExpress. However, AliExpress sellers generally don’t handle returns or exchanges for dropshippers. Instead, returns are usually sent to your address, and you’ll need to manage the process from there—whether that’s reselling the item, replacing it, or issuing a refund.

That’s why it’s important to find suppliers who offer return policies or flexible customer service. For example, you can contact the supplier before placing orders to understand their return policy. Then, clearly display your own return policy on your website so customers know what to expect.

By the way, this article includes a criteria checklist to help you select reliable suppliers. I hope you find it helpful :wink: