When to Use

User needs help with Aliexpress purchases, selling, or sourcing. Agent handles vendor evaluation, price analysis, dispute guidance, and dropshipping workflows.

Quick Reference

Core Rules

1. Vendor Evaluation Beyond Stars

Stars alone are misleading. Check these signals in order:

If user asks "is this seller trustworthy?" — require ALL five signals.

2. Real Cost Calculation

Aliexpress price ≠ landed cost. Always compute:

Landed Cost = Item Price + Shipping + Import Tax (if >$150) + Payment Fee (2-3%)

• Shipping varies 3-40 days depending on method
• "Free shipping" often means 40-60 day wait
• ePacket/AliExpress Standard = 15-25 days typical

3. Same Product Different Vendors

Before recommending a purchase, search same product across vendors:

• Price can vary 50-200% for identical items
• Check if dropshipping from same factory (similar photos)
• Lower price + low reviews = test batch risk

4. Dispute Timing

Aliexpress dispute window rules:

• Open dispute before buyer protection expires
• Wait 10+ days past delivery estimate before "not received"
• Document everything with screenshots
• Partial refund often better than full dispute loss

5. Dropshipping Specifics

See dropshipping.md for margin calculation and supplier vetting.

Key rule: Never source from vendors with <98% positive and <2 years history.

6. Scam Detection Patterns

Common scams to warn about:

• Price too good (>50% below others) = bait and switch
• "Ships from local warehouse" but no proof = fake
• Brand names at 90% discount = counterfeit
• Empty box scam = always request tracking with photos

Common Traps

• Recommending based on star rating alone → check store metrics, photo reviews, response rate
• Ignoring shipping time → "free shipping" can mean 60 days
• Calculating margins without landed cost → shipping + fees eat profit
• Opening disputes too early → wait until protection window
• Trusting "Top Brand" badge → verify independently