How to Shop on Aliexpress During Big Sale Events (11.11, Black Friday)

How to Shop on AliExpress During Big Sale Events in the UK

Every year, AliExpress hosts massive online shopping events like 11.11 (Singles’ Day) and Black Friday, offering UK shoppers the chance to grab bargains on a huge range of products. These events attract millions of buyers worldwide, but if you’re shopping from the UK, there are special considerations to keep in mind. Understanding how to navigate these sales ensures you get the best deals while avoiding common pitfalls such as unexpected customs charges, long delivery times, or issues with returns.

For UK residents, shopping on AliExpress during these big sales comes with unique challenges and opportunities. With Brexit and recent changes to VAT and import regulations, it’s more important than ever to know how to check seller ratings, understand shipping options, and ensure buyer protection. This guide will help you make the most of AliExpress’s major sale events, so you can shop confidently and safely from the UK, without unwelcome surprises.

Ready to crush your AliExpress wishlist during 11.11 or Black Friday? Snap up even bigger bargains—check out this month’s codes for UK shoppers and stack your savings!

How to Shop on AliExpress During Big Sale Events (11.11, Black Friday) for UK Buyers

What is the 11.11 on AliExpress?

11.11, also known as Singles’ Day, is AliExpress’s largest annual sale event. Every year on November 11th, millions of products are discounted, with deals typically starting at midnight Beijing time. For UK shoppers, this means the sale often kicks off at 4pm GMT on November 10th. 11.11 on AliExpress is renowned for offering some of the lowest prices of the year, often even better than Black Friday.

• 11.11 is the biggest sale event on AliExpress, with discounts across all categories, including electronics, fashion, home goods, and more.
• Many UK buyers use this opportunity to buy Christmas gifts and stock up on essentials.
• Flash deals, coupons, and exclusive app-only offers are common during this event.

AliExpress 11.11 vs Black Friday: Which is Better for UK Shoppers?

When comparing AliExpress 11.11 vs Black Friday, UK buyers should consider the following:

• 11.11 Sale typically features more extensive sitewide discounts and exclusive coupons.
• AliExpress Black Friday (usually the last Friday in November) also offers significant discounts, but the range and depth of deals can be slightly less than 11.11.
• Some sellers save their best deals for 11.11, while others extend offers into Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
• Timing your purchases can help you secure the best prices—sometimes, products are restocked and discounted again for Black Friday if they sold out during 11.11.

Does AliExpress Have Black Friday Discounts?

Yes, AliExpress has Black Friday discounts every year. The platform runs a dedicated Black Friday sale, featuring deep discounts, limited-time flash deals, and extra coupons. For UK shoppers, the AliExpress Black Friday event is a great chance to grab bargains, especially if you missed the 11.11 sale.

• How much discount do you get on Black Friday? Discounts can range from 10% to 70% or more, depending on the product and seller.
• Look for extra discount codes and check both the website and the AliExpress app for exclusive deals.

What is the Best Time to Buy from AliExpress?

Sale Events Calendar for UK Shoppers

The best time to buy from AliExpress is during major sale events, when prices are at their lowest and extra discounts are widely available. Key dates for UK buyers include:

1. 11.11 Sale (Singles’ Day) – November 11th
2. Black Friday – Last Friday in November
3. Cyber Monday – First Monday after Black Friday
4. Anniversary Sale – March
5. Summer Sale – June/July

During these events, AliExpress offers sitewide discounts, flash sales, and exclusive coupons. Many UK buyers wait for these dates to make bulk purchases or buy high-value items at a lower price.

AliExpress 11.11 Sale 2024: What to Expect

The AliExpress 11.11 sale 2024 is expected to be bigger than ever, with more UK-focused deals and faster shipping options. Anticipate:

• Price drops on trending products and bestsellers.
• Special UK warehouse deals for faster delivery.
• Stackable coupons, including AliExpress and seller-specific codes.
• New games and challenges to win extra discounts or free products.

How to Find the Cheapest Price on AliExpress During Sales

Tips for UK Buyers to Get the Best Deal

Finding the cheapest price on AliExpress requires a bit of research and strategy, especially during big sale events. Here’s how UK shoppers can maximise savings:

• Add items to your cart or wishlist before the sale to track price changes.
• Use an AliExpress price tracker app or browser extension to check price history and avoid fake discounts.
• Compare prices from multiple sellers for the same product. Check seller ratings and reviews for reliability.
• Look for bundle deals or multi-buy offers that provide extra value.
• Use filters to select items shipped from the UK or EU for faster delivery and easier returns.

Recommended AliExpress Sales Tracker and Price Tracker Apps

To ensure you’re getting a genuine deal, use a reputable AliExpress sales tracker or AliExpress price tracker app. These tools help you:

• Monitor price changes over time.
• Identify the lowest historical price for each item.
• Receive alerts when your favourite products drop in price.

Popular options include AliPrice (browser extension), Keepa (for Amazon and some AliExpress tracking), and Pricearchive.org. Always check recent price trends, as some sellers may temporarily raise prices before a sale—a concern often voiced as AliExpress prices went up before discounts are applied.

How to Get Extra Discount on AliExpress During Big Sale Events

Stacking Discounts for Maximum Savings

AliExpress offers multiple types of discounts during sale events, and savvy UK buyers can often stack them for even bigger savings:

1. AliExpress coupons: Platform-wide codes that apply to most products.
2. Seller coupons: Individual shop discounts, often stackable with AliExpress codes.
3. Select coupons: Special coupons earned through games or app activities, usable on selected items.
4. Promo codes: Time-limited codes released on social media or via email newsletters.
5. Bank or payment method offers: Extra discounts for paying with certain cards (e.g., Mastercard, Visa) or using PayPal.

How to Collect and Use Coupons

• Visit the AliExpress coupon centre before the sale to collect available codes.
• Play games or participate in pre-sale activities to earn select coupons.
• Follow your favourite sellers to receive exclusive shop coupons.
• Check AliExpress’s official social media for flash promo codes.
• Enter all relevant codes at checkout—AliExpress will automatically apply the best combination for you.

How Much Discount Can You Get on Black Friday?

Discounts on Black Friday vary by product and seller, but UK buyers can typically expect:

• 10%-70% off on electronics, gadgets, and accessories.
• 20%-50% off on fashion, beauty, and home goods.
• Extra £5-£20 off with sitewide coupons for orders over a minimum spend.
• Additional savings from bank promotions or app-exclusive deals.

Always check the final price at checkout, as taxes and shipping may affect the total cost for UK deliveries.

Shipping, Customs, and Delivery Times for UK Buyers

Shipping Options During Sale Events

During AliExpress 11.11 sale 2024 and Black Friday, shipping demand surges. For UK buyers:

• Look for AliExpress Standard Shipping or AliExpress Premium Shipping for reliable tracking and faster delivery (typically 10-20 business days).
• Some sellers offer UK warehouse shipping, with delivery in 3-7 days—ideal for urgent purchases.
• Free shipping is common, but always check estimated delivery times and read recent reviews for seller reliability.

Customs and Import Duties After Brexit

Since Brexit, UK buyers may be subject to VAT and customs duties on orders over £135. Key points:

• For orders under £135, AliExpress usually collects UK VAT at checkout, so you won’t pay extra on delivery.
• Orders over £135 may incur additional customs duties, payable to the courier before delivery.
• Check the product listing for “Ships from UK” or “Ships from EU” to minimise customs risk and speed up delivery.

Tracking Your Order: AliExpress Sales Tracker Tools

Use the AliExpress app or third-party AliExpress sales tracker tools to monitor your shipment. You’ll receive updates at each stage, from dispatch to arrival in the UK. For expensive or time-sensitive items, choose a tracked shipping method and keep your tracking number handy.

Buyer Protection and Return Policies on AliExpress UK

AliExpress Buyer Protection

AliExpress offers robust buyer protection during big sale events. This includes:

• Full refund guarantee if your order doesn’t arrive within the promised time.
• Partial or full refund if the item is significantly not as described.
• Easy dispute process via the AliExpress platform—always document issues with photos and clear communication.

Return Policies for UK Buyers

Return policies vary by seller, but many now offer free returns for UK customers on eligible items. Look for the “Free Return” badge on product listings. Key tips:

• Initiate a return within the specified period (usually 15 days after receipt).
• Follow the return instructions provided by AliExpress and use the pre-paid label if available.
• Refunds are processed once the returned item is received and inspected.

How to Choose Reliable Sellers During Big Sale Events

Tips for Selecting the Best Sellers

With thousands of sellers participating in AliExpress 11.11 sale 2024 and Black Friday, UK buyers should:

• Check seller ratings (above 95% is ideal).
• Read recent buyer reviews, focusing on UK customers for relevant shipping and customs feedback.
• Look for “Top Brand” or “AliExpress Choice” badges for added trust.
• Contact the seller with any questions before buying—responsive communication is a good sign of reliability.

AliExpress Prices Went Up? How to Avoid Overpaying

Some UK buyers notice that AliExpress prices went up just before big sales. To avoid overpaying:

• Use a price tracker app to monitor historical prices and spot genuine discounts.
• Compare the sale price with other platforms like Amazon UK or Temu for similar products.
• Keep an eye on shipping costs and VAT, as these can affect the final price.
• Don’t rush—sometimes, the best deals are in the last hours of the sale or during flash deals.

AliExpress Shopping Checklist for UK Buyers During 11.11 and Black Friday

1. Create your AliExpress account and set your shipping address to the UK.
2. Add desired items to your cart or wishlist in advance.
3. Collect all available coupons from the coupon centre, sellers, and app games.
4. Check product reviews, seller ratings, and shipping options before checkout.
5. Use a price tracker to verify real discounts.
6. Choose tracked shipping for peace of mind.
7. Pay attention to customs and VAT for orders over £135.
8. Track your order using the AliExpress app or sales tracker tools.
9. Contact the seller promptly if you have any issues or questions.
10. Initiate returns or disputes within the buyer protection window if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions for UK AliExpress Shoppers

Does AliExpress have Black Friday discounts?

Yes, AliExpress runs a major Black Friday sale with discounts, flash deals, and extra coupons for UK buyers.

What is the 11.11 on AliExpress?

11.11 is AliExpress’s biggest sale event, held on November 11th, with the lowest prices of the year.

What is the biggest sale event on AliExpress?

11.11 Singles’ Day is the largest and most anticipated sale event on AliExpress.

What is the best time to buy from AliExpress?

The best time to buy is during 11.11, Black Friday, and other major sale events when discounts are highest.

How to get extra discount on AliExpress?

Stack AliExpress coupons, seller coupons, select coupons, and promo codes for maximum savings.

How much discount do you get on Black Friday?

Discounts range from 10% to 70% or more, depending on the product and seller, with extra coupons available.

AliExpress 11.11 vs Black Friday: Which is better?

11.11 usually offers deeper discounts and a wider range of deals, but Black Friday is a great second chance if you miss out.

How to find the cheapest price on AliExpress?

Use a price tracker app, compare sellers, and collect coupons to ensure you’re getting the lowest price.

AliExpress sales tracker and price tracker app recommendations?

AliPrice, Pricearchive.org, and the AliExpress app are popular choices for tracking sales and prices.

Why do AliExpress prices go up before sales?

Some sellers increase prices before sales to show bigger discounts. Always check price history to avoid overpaying.

FAQ: How to Shop on AliExpress During Big Sale Events (11.11, Black Friday)

How can I prepare for AliExpress big sale events like 11.11 and Black Friday?

Preparation is key to getting the best deals on AliExpress during major sale events. Create an account in advance, add desired items to your wishlist or cart, and set notifications for sale start times. Check seller ratings and reviews to ensure you’re buying from reputable sources. Make sure your payment and shipping information are up to date for a smooth checkout process.

Are there extra discounts or coupons available during these events?

Yes, AliExpress offers exclusive coupons and discounts during 11.11 and Black Friday sales. Check the “Coupons” section on product pages and the AliExpress homepage. Many sellers provide additional store coupons, and you can often stack these with platform-wide discounts for bigger savings. Look out for time-limited flash deals as well.

How long does shipping take to the UK during big sales?

Shipping times can be longer during 11.11 and Black Friday due to high order volumes. Standard shipping to the UK usually takes 15-30 days, but during sale periods, it may take longer. Consider using AliExpress Standard Shipping or AliExpress Premium Shipping for more reliable delivery and tracking. Always check the estimated delivery date at checkout.

Will I need to pay customs duties or VAT on my AliExpress orders?

Orders shipped to the UK are subject to VAT and possible customs duties. Since Brexit, AliExpress automatically collects VAT at checkout for orders under £135. For orders above £135, you may need to pay import duties and VAT upon delivery. Check the UK government’s import guidelines to understand potential costs.

How do I avoid scams and buy safely on AliExpress during these events?

Shop only from sellers with high ratings and positive reviews. Read product descriptions carefully and avoid deals that seem too good to be true. Use secure payment methods, and never send money outside the AliExpress platform. For additional online shopping safety tips, visit the CISA Holiday Online Shopping Tips.

What buyer protection does AliExpress offer during big sales?

AliExpress provides a Buyer Protection programme that covers your purchase from payment to delivery. If your item doesn’t arrive, is not as described, or is defective, you can open a dispute within the protection period for a refund or replacement. Always document your order and communicate through the AliExpress platform for support.

Can I return items bought during 11.11 or Black Friday sales?

Return policies vary by seller on AliExpress. Many sellers offer returns for items that are defective or not as described, but you may need to pay return shipping to China. Check the product’s “Returns & Refunds” section before purchasing. Some items may be non-returnable, especially during sale events, so read the terms carefully.

How do I choose reliable sellers during big sales?

Look for sellers with a high positive feedback score (ideally above 95%) and read recent customer reviews. Check how long the seller has been active and how many sales they’ve completed. Reliable sellers often respond quickly to questions and provide clear product information. For more tips on safe online shopping, see the University of Derby’s guide to shopping safely online.

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