Quick Facts
AliExpress is a China-based online marketplace that sells almost everything, from clothes and shoes to phone accessories, home goods and electronics. Canadian buyers can order from its website or app, pay at checkout and have the parcel shipped from the seller. Before you pay, check that the item ships to Canada, what the delivery costs and whether duties or taxes apply.
About AliExpress
AliExpress is an online shopping platform based in China. It works as a marketplace: many sellers list their goods on one site, so you can find most things you need in one place, often at low prices.
What you can buy
The range covers clothing, shoes, baby supplies and toys, home decor such as curtains and carpets, and kitchenware such as pots and pans. Electronics are a large part of it too, from phone cases, accessories and chargers to laptops and tablets.
Delivery and customs
Shipping costs depend on the size and weight of the items, and each seller sets its own shipping options, so check the cost and delivery time on the product page and at checkout.
Buyers outside Asia may also have to pay duties, taxes or other customs fees, which are not included in the shipping rate. See the question at the end of this page.
How to buy from AliExpress
The process is similar to shopping on Amazon.
- Sign up for an account on Aliexpress.
- Search for the item you want and add it to the shopping cart.
- Check the cart, including the shipping option and cost, then go to checkout.
- Select the shipping address, enter the billing and payment details, then submit the order.
How to sell on AliExpress
Sellers need an AliExpress seller account, which sets the prices and shipping options buyers see. The basic steps:
- Find the product you want to sell.
- Add photos and a description of the item.
- Set the price. The site shows buyers the price in their own currency.
- Enter the shipping information, including delivery time and cost.
- Fill in the seller information and submit the listing.
Get the AliExpress app
You can open the AliExpress website in any browser, or shop on your phone with the Android app or the iOS app.
Do I have to pay customs and import duties on an AliExpress order to Canada?
Possibly. Duties and taxes are generally not included in the item price, and they may not be included in the shipping charge either. AliExpress sellers are based abroad, so customs charges can apply. The amount depends on where the order ships from, the products, their value and the parcel weight, and some items are taxed differently from others. Check with the seller or with your local customs authority before you order.
Store links checked in October 2026.
