How Does PostNL / Cainiao Work with Aliexpress Deliveries?

How Does PostNL / Cainiao Work with AliExpress Deliveries in the UK?

Shopping on AliExpress has become increasingly popular among UK residents, thanks to its vast range of products and competitive prices. However, understanding how your orders are delivered is crucial for a smooth shopping experience. Many UK shoppers notice that their AliExpress parcels are handled by PostNL and Cainiao, two logistics companies that play a key role in international shipping. Knowing how these services work together can help you track your orders more effectively, estimate delivery times, and avoid unexpected issues.

For UK buyers, there are several important concerns when it comes to AliExpress deliveries. These include customs clearance, shipping times, and the reliability of tracking information. Since PostNL and Cainiao often handle the logistics and handover to local couriers, understanding their processes can help you make informed decisions and manage your expectations. This knowledge is especially valuable when it comes to dealing with delivery delays, lost parcels, or navigating the return process if something goes wrong.

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How Does PostNL / Cainiao Work with AliExpress Deliveries in the UK?

AliExpress Shipping Methods: Understanding Cainiao and PostNL

AliExpress offers a variety of shipping methods for UK buyers, and two of the most common logistics providers you’ll encounter are Cainiao and PostNL. Many shoppers ask, Does AliExpress use Cainiao? Yes, Cainiao is the official logistics arm of the Alibaba Group, which owns AliExpress. It manages international shipping for millions of parcels, often in collaboration with local and international postal partners like PostNL.

When you order on AliExpress, you might notice shipping options such as AliExpress Standard Shipping, Cainiao Standard for Special Goods, or AliExpress Saver Shipping. These often rely on Cainiao’s logistics network to move parcels from China to the UK, sometimes using PostNL as a carrier for part of the journey.

What Delivery Company Does AliExpress Use?

What delivery company does AliExpress use? AliExpress partners with a range of global and local delivery companies to get your order to your door in the UK. The main companies involved in handling AliExpress parcels for UK buyers include:

• Cainiao (for international logistics and tracking)
• PostNL (Dutch postal service, often handles parcels in Europe)
• Royal Mail (handles last-mile delivery for many AliExpress orders in the UK)
• Other couriers, depending on the chosen shipping method and parcel size

If you select a shipping method like AliExpress Standard Shipping or Cainiao Standard, your parcel will likely be routed through Cainiao’s network, possibly handled by PostNL in the Netherlands, and then delivered by Royal Mail or another UK courier.

Cainiao: The Backbone of AliExpress Shipping

What Delivery Service Does Cainiao Use?

What delivery service does Cainiao use? Cainiao is not a courier in itself, but rather a logistics platform that partners with airlines, customs, and local postal services worldwide. For UK deliveries, Cainiao typically works with:

• PostNL for European transit and customs clearance
• Royal Mail for final delivery to your UK address
• Other local couriers, depending on the parcel type (e.g., Yodel, Hermes/Evri)

Cainiao selects the most efficient route and local partners based on your address, the seller’s location, and the shipping method you choose at checkout.

Cainiao Heavy Parcel Tracking and Local Delivery Companies

For larger or heavier items, you might see references to Cainiao Heavy Parcel tracking or Cainiao local delivery company in your tracking information. These terms indicate that Cainiao has partnered with a specific courier experienced in handling bulkier shipments. In the UK, these are usually delivered by Royal Mail Parcelforce or other specialist couriers.

You can track these parcels using the Cainiao website or third-party services like 17TRACK for detailed status updates.

PostNL: The Dutch Postal Service in AliExpress Shipping

Who Delivers for PostNL?

Who delivers for PostNL? PostNL is the national postal service of the Netherlands. In the context of AliExpress, PostNL acts as a key transit partner for parcels coming from China to Europe. Once your parcel arrives in the Netherlands, PostNL handles customs clearance and forwards the package to the UK.

But PostNL itself does not deliver directly to your UK address. Instead, after processing, PostNL hands over the parcel to Royal Mail or another local courier for final delivery.

Who Delivers Cainiao in the UK?

Who delivers Cainiao in the UK? In almost all cases, Royal Mail is responsible for delivering Cainiao parcels once they reach the UK. For larger or tracked items, Parcelforce (a Royal Mail company) or other couriers such as Hermes/Evri or Yodel may be used, depending on the parcel’s size and the delivery service selected.

• Standard letters and small parcels: Delivered by Royal Mail
• Bulky or heavy parcels: Delivered by Parcelforce or other specialist couriers

PostNL AliExpress and Reddit Discussions

Many UK buyers search for PostNL AliExpress reddit to read about others’ experiences. Common themes include tracking updates, customs delays, and delivery times. Most users report that PostNL is reliable for forwarding parcels to the UK, but tracking can sometimes be confusing due to multiple handovers between carriers.

If you’re concerned about your parcel, it’s a good idea to check tracking updates on both the AliExpress order page and third-party tracking sites.

Tracking Your AliExpress Order: Cainiao, PostNL, Royal Mail, and More

What Tracking Does AliExpress Use?

What tracking does AliExpress use? AliExpress provides tracking numbers for most shipments, especially those sent by AliExpress Standard Shipping or Cainiao Standard. The tracking number format may change as the parcel moves between carriers.

You can use several platforms to track your order:

• AliExpress Order Page: Basic tracking updates and estimated delivery window
• Cainiao Tracking: (global.cainiao.com) for detailed journey information
• PostNL Tracking: (postnl.nl/en/track-trace) for updates once the parcel is handled by PostNL
• Royal Mail Tracking: (royalmail.com/track-your-item) for final delivery status in the UK
• 17TRACK: (17track.net) to track parcels across multiple carriers with a single tracking number

If you see Aliexpress NL tracking number in your order details, this means your parcel is being routed through the Netherlands (NL) and handled by PostNL before coming to the UK.

How to Use 17TRACK for AliExpress Orders

17TRACK is a popular global parcel tracking platform that allows you to enter your AliExpress tracking number and see updates from Cainiao, PostNL, Royal Mail, and other couriers all in one place. This is especially helpful if your parcel is moving between multiple countries and carriers.

To track your AliExpress order on 17TRACK:

1. Copy the tracking number from your AliExpress order page
2. Go to 17track.net
3. Paste your tracking number and click “Track”
4. View the parcel’s journey, including updates from Cainiao, PostNL, and Royal Mail

PostNL Tracking for AliExpress Parcels

If your parcel is being handled by PostNL, you can use the PostNL tracking tool to get more detailed updates while your parcel is in the Netherlands or in transit to the UK. Simply enter your tracking number on the PostNL tracking page.

Keep in mind that once the parcel leaves the Netherlands and is handed over to Royal Mail, the tracking number may change or require you to use Royal Mail’s system for further updates.

Royal Mail Tracking for AliExpress Deliveries

Once your parcel arrives in the UK, Royal Mail tracking becomes the best resource for delivery updates. Use your tracking number (sometimes the same as your PostNL or Cainiao number) on the Royal Mail tracking page to check delivery status, expected arrival, or if a delivery attempt has been made.

For parcels sent via Parcelforce, use their dedicated tracking system for more detailed information on heavy or bulky items.

AliExpress NL Tracking Number: What Does It Mean?

You may notice your AliExpress order is assigned an AliExpress NL tracking number. This indicates your parcel is being shipped via the Netherlands (NL) as a transit country. The parcel is first sent from China to the Netherlands, processed by PostNL, and then forwarded to the UK for final delivery.

This route is commonly used for AliExpress Standard Shipping and Cainiao Standard parcels, as it allows for efficient customs clearance and reliable onward shipping to the UK.

Tip: If your tracking number starts with “NL” or contains “NL” in the middle, you can use both PostNL tracking and 17TRACK to monitor your parcel’s progress.

How the AliExpress, Cainiao, and PostNL Delivery Chain Works

Step-by-Step: From Seller to Your Door

1. Seller Dispatches Parcel: The AliExpress seller hands your order to a local courier or directly to Cainiao’s logistics hub in China.
2. Cainiao Handles Export: Cainiao coordinates export, often aggregating parcels for bulk shipment to Europe.
3. Arrival in the Netherlands: Parcels arrive in the Netherlands, where PostNL manages customs clearance and re-labels the parcel for onward travel.
4. Parcel Sent to the UK: PostNL forwards the parcel to the UK, handing it over to Royal Mail or another local delivery company.
5. Final Delivery: Royal Mail delivers the parcel to your address, or leaves a collection card if you’re not home.

Tracking Your Parcel at Every Stage

At each stage, your tracking number will provide updates. Use Cainiao tracking for the early stages, PostNL tracking for the European leg, and Royal Mail tracking for final delivery in the UK. 17TRACK is especially useful for seeing all updates in one place.

Common Questions from UK Buyers About AliExpress, Cainiao, and PostNL

Why Does My AliExpress Tracking Seem Stuck?

It’s common for tracking to pause for several days while your parcel is in transit between countries or waiting for customs clearance. If your PostNL AliExpress tracking hasn’t updated, it may be awaiting a flight or processing at a sorting centre. Use 17TRACK to check if another carrier has new updates.

How Long Does AliExpress Delivery Take to the UK?

Delivery times vary, but most AliExpress Standard Shipping parcels arrive in the UK within 10-25 business days. Delays can occur due to customs, busy seasons, or disruptions in international shipping. Cainiao and PostNL work together to keep parcels moving, but final delivery depends on Royal Mail or your local courier.

If your parcel hasn’t arrived after 30 days, check tracking and contact the seller via AliExpress.

What Should I Do If My Parcel Is Lost or Delayed?

If your parcel tracking shows no updates for more than two weeks, or if it’s marked as delivered but you haven’t received it, you should:

• Contact the seller through AliExpress messages
• Open a dispute on AliExpress if the estimated delivery date has passed
• Check with Royal Mail using your tracking number
• Ask your local sorting office if they are holding the parcel

AliExpress buyer protection covers you for non-delivery or lost items, so you can request a refund if your order doesn’t arrive.

Is There a Way to Speed Up AliExpress Delivery?

Faster shipping options such as AliExpress Premium Shipping or DHL/FedEx are available at a higher cost. These services bypass Cainiao and PostNL, going directly to premium couriers. For standard orders, choosing AliExpress Standard Shipping (Cainiao/PostNL) offers a good balance of cost and reliability for UK buyers.

Tips for UK Buyers Using AliExpress, Cainiao, and PostNL

• Always check the estimated delivery date on your AliExpress order page
• Use 17TRACK or Cainiao tracking for real-time updates across carriers
• Monitor PostNL and Royal Mail tracking when your parcel is in Europe or the UK
• Contact the seller promptly if you notice unusual delays
• Keep your tracking number safe until your parcel is delivered

Understanding how AliExpress, Cainiao, and PostNL work together helps UK shoppers track their parcels and resolve issues quickly. By using the right tracking tools and knowing which courier is responsible at each stage, you’ll have a smoother, more informed shopping experience.

FAQ: How Does PostNL / Cainiao Work with AliExpress Deliveries?

How do PostNL and Cainiao cooperate for AliExpress deliveries to the UK?

When you order from AliExpress, your parcel is often shipped via Cainiao, AliExpress’s official logistics partner. For deliveries to the UK, Cainiao typically handles the package in China and during international transit. Once your parcel arrives in the UK or the Netherlands, the local courier PostNL may take over for the final leg of delivery. This cooperation helps streamline customs processing and ensures reliable tracking for UK shoppers.

Can I track my AliExpress order through both Cainiao and PostNL?

Yes, you can track your AliExpress parcel using both Cainiao and PostNL tracking systems. Initially, you’ll receive a Cainiao tracking number, which works on the AliExpress site and Cainiao’s own tracking page. Once PostNL takes over, the same tracking number can be used on the PostNL website for more detailed updates within the UK.

How long does delivery from AliExpress via Cainiao and PostNL usually take to the UK?

Delivery times vary based on the seller’s location, shipping method, and customs clearance. On average, parcels sent via Cainiao and PostNL take 10 to 25 business days to reach the UK. Some delays may occur during busy periods or due to customs checks. Always check the estimated delivery time on your AliExpress order page for the most accurate information.

Will I have to pay customs or VAT when my parcel is delivered by PostNL?

Since Brexit, customs duties and VAT may apply to goods imported from outside the UK, including AliExpress orders. For orders under £135, AliExpress usually collects VAT at checkout. For orders over £135, you may need to pay customs charges to PostNL or the UK delivery partner before receiving your parcel. For more details on import rules, visit the UK government’s import guidance.

What should I do if my tracking information stops updating?

If your tracking status has not been updated for several days, don’t panic. It’s common for tracking to pause during international transit or customs processing. If there’s no update for more than two weeks, contact the AliExpress seller or use the AliExpress support centre to open a dispute. You can also check both Cainiao and PostNL tracking sites for the latest information.

Who is responsible if my parcel is lost or damaged?

AliExpress Buyer Protection covers lost or damaged parcels. If your item does not arrive within the guaranteed delivery window or arrives damaged, you can open a dispute on AliExpress for a refund or replacement. Both Cainiao and PostNL are responsible for handling and delivering your parcel, but AliExpress manages any claims or compensation through their platform.

Can I change my delivery address after ordering on AliExpress?

Once your order is placed, AliExpress does not allow address changes for security reasons. If your parcel has not yet shipped, you can try cancelling the order and placing a new one with the correct address. If it’s already shipped, contact the seller, but changes are rarely possible once Cainiao or PostNL have taken over.

How do I return an item delivered by PostNL from AliExpress?

To return an AliExpress order delivered by PostNL, initiate the return process through your AliExpress account. Follow the seller’s instructions and use a trackable shipping method. Note that return shipping costs are usually the buyer’s responsibility unless the item was faulty or not as described. For information about exporting goods back to overseas sellers, check the UK government’s export guidance.

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