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So I ordered a bunch of custom embroidered items (for about $200, which is a fair market price), and seller insisted that we use UPS and no other shipper. I felt like it was pricey ($44), but that my product was nevertheless in good hands. The ordering process itself was a hassle, and I had to issue the order three times because shipping was supposed to be free but then it was not due to a configuration problem on their end (I was of course refunded every time).
Because it was UPS Expedited, the order had to be confirmed within 2 weeks from shipment. Turns out the items ended up withheld in customs (for a spot check according to UPS). In France this can legally go on for 10 days, so I was super close from the confirmation date set by the seller. I decided to dispute the order to obtain an extension.
Seller got a bit pissy and AliExpress stepped in to say that since items were in customs it was my responsibility to pay the duty (which I entirely expected) or provide proof that items were still held in customs. UPS would not issue any document stating that the item had cleared customs (rightfully so - read on...), so I was unable to provide evidence in the due timeframe and, sure enough, AliExpress released payment.
I was a bit miffed about this but figured the item would eventually show upon my door. Then eventually, I got a hold of someone at UPS who told be that the items had be seized as counterfeit goods (wtf...,?) and that they were going to be destroyed. UPS gave me a number to initiate a trace to pass on to the seller, who of course, could not care less... I suspect that they tossed a bunch of stuff in there - part of me wishes to say unintentionally - that were, well, cheap Chinese ripoffs.
So I am sure that vast majority of you are happy with your orders, but be very wary of shippers who are forcing you into a specific system.
I ordered an item on pre-release, it was released on 31st October and then it was apparent the stock the seller planned for didn't show up or wasn't there. I had paid for fast 3 day shipping from UPS, AliExpress quoted 6th November. I need the item for the 16th and have been clear.
The seller first put a tracking number for DHL, which seemed to be shipping something via Germany, but when this didn't moved I asked what was going on. He said his warehouse was having problems and then on the 10th November generated a UPS label.
I have no doubt the seller was selling a product they didn't have, but I'm not sure why the first delivery label (was on the due date) and now why the UPS label is looking like the parcel hasn't been handed over?
This has now been stuck on label generated for 5 days and not moved. I contacted the seller and he keeps saying next few days I will get an update.
I contacted today and he sent the above two, but I'm not clearer what's happening.
Aliexpress gives sellers about 10 days to make a tracking-number (which happened), tracking-numbers are valid for 14 days, but as you noticed, they can be replaced at the last moment, giving them another 14 days, and so on.
So, instead, check your order details, it will tell you when the system will automatically confirm delivery (starts at 60-90 days). Only once that happens is when your package is considered late, and you can file a dispute for non-delivery, until then, you're just going to have to be patient and wait.
I believe that label is created right when you place your order (or when shipped out initially?) and not used until it is actually in their (UPS in this case) hands.
It is a $200 item from a Chinese store (pretty reputable company). I have never used UPS Express. How fast is it?