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Temu vs AliExpress for dropshipping — which platform is better in 2025 for U.S. sellers? If you’re starting a dropshipping store or scaling your TikTok ads, choosing the right supplier can make or break your profits.
Before we dive in, here’s Shopify’s beginner guide to dropshipping — a useful starting point if you’re new to the game.
In this post, we compare Temu and AliExpress on shipping speed, profit margins, automation, and real-world case studies.
In this article, we’ll break down their differences in pricing, shipping, product range, supplier reliability, dropshipping tools, and overall ease of use. By the end, you’ll know which platform works best for your type of business.
Table of Contents
What Are Temu and AliExpress?
Temu is a new e-commerce marketplace owned by PDD Holdings, known for ultra-cheap items and aggressive global expansion. It’s consumer-focused, built for end customers, and features lightning-fast shipping for certain categories.
AliExpress, owned by Alibaba, has been a go-to source for dropshippers since 2010. It offers a wide product catalog, robust integrations with platforms like Shopify, and a vast network of suppliers.
Temu vs AliExpress: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Temu | AliExpress |
|---|---|---|
| Product Range | Limited (Trending Items) | Extensive & Niche |
| Avg. Shipping Time (US) | 6–14 days ✅ | 14–35 days ❌ |
| Dropshipping Integration | Not Supported ❌ | DSers, Shopify, CJ ✅ |
| Branded Packaging | Not Available ❌ | Optional from Sellers ✅ |
| Return Policy | Consumer-Friendly ✅ | Depends on Seller ❌ |
| Direct Supplier Chat | No ❌ | Yes ✅ |
Real-World U.S. Case Study – Which Platform Made More Profit?
When comparing Temu vs AliExpress for dropshipping, you’ll notice one platform favors speed while the other supports scaling.
Let’s look at a 30-day test run conducted by a U.S.-based dropshipper selling the same trending product — a portable handheld vacuum.
| Platform | Product Cost | Avg. Delivery (U.S.) | Orders Fulfilled | Net Profit (After Ads) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temu | $2.19 | 6–9 days | 43 | $187 |
| AliExpress | $3.45 | 15–28 days | 22 | $121 |
Takeaway: Temu’s fast shipping and U.S. warehouse support led to higher conversions — especially on TikTok ads and impulse buys.
AliExpress struggled with delivery delays, but had slightly better margins when bundled orders were used.
Verdict:
Temu wins for short-term, volume-based testing.
AliExpress wins when you’re ready to scale with automation and target repeat buyers.
Product Availability and Quality
Temu focuses on a curated catalog of bestsellers. You’ll find gadgets, home goods, and lifestyle products – but not business-focused inventory. AliExpress, on the other hand, gives you access to almost every product imaginable. You can even source niche items in electronics, car accessories, or beauty.
In terms of quality, both platforms have a mix. Temu is very polished for end-user satisfaction, while AliExpress requires filtering and reviewing suppliers manually.
Shipping and Logistics
Temu wins the shipping battle in countries like the US, thanks to local fulfillment warehouses. Most orders arrive in under 2 weeks, some as fast as 6 days.
AliExpress relies on China Post and seller-chosen carriers. While some items arrive in 10 days, others can take over a month.
For urgent product testing, Temu is better. For long-term scaling, AliExpress gives you more control and stability.
Dropshipping Tools and Integration
AliExpress integrates with DSers, Oberlo (legacy), and CJ Dropshipping. You can automate orders, pricing rules, and inventory updates.
Temu does not support dropshipping integrations. Orders must be placed manually. This is fine for personal shopping, but not scalable for e-commerce business owners.
Pricing and Profit Margins
Temu offers cheaper prices on many low-ticket products. This can increase your margin in B2C flash sales or TikTok shops.
AliExpress has more pricing flexibility and volume discounts. Sellers can negotiate for better rates or bundle shipping.
Platform Trust & Buyer Protection
Temu’s return process is smoother for buyers but less transparent for resellers. There’s no direct contact with sellers.
AliExpress has clear buyer protection policies and buyer-to-seller chat. This builds trust but can also slow down resolutions.
Section: What U.S. Dropshippers Are Saying (From Reddit & Quora)
We scanned dozens of Reddit threads (r/dropship, r/entrepreneur) and Quora answers. Here’s what American dropshippers had to say:
- Temu Pros:
- Fast U.S. shipping (sometimes under a week)
- Dirt-cheap prices (especially for impulse Facebook/TikTok ads)
- Clean interface for personal ordering
- Temu Cons:
- No Shopify or WooCommerce integration
- No bulk order automation or CSV uploads
- Limited control over packaging or branding
- AliExpress Pros:
- Seamless Shopify integrations (DSers, Oberlo legacy)
- Better for custom packaging and product bundling
- Access to supplier reviews, direct messaging
- AliExpress Cons:
- Slower delivery
- Higher returns when buyers complain about delays
Quote from a U.S. Redditor:
“Temu’s cool if you’re dropshipping to test a product and don’t want to commit. But if you’re running serious ad campaigns and building a list, you’ll outgrow it fast.”
Temu vs AliExpress for Dropshipping: Which Platform Is Better for You?
Choose Temu if:
- You are testing viral products with fast shipping needs
- You don’t need backend automation or branding
- You want super-low prices and easy returns
Choose AliExpress if:
- You run a real store on Shopify or WooCommerce
- You want automated workflows
- You plan to scale or brand your store
People Often Ask
Is Temu good for dropshipping?
Temu is great for testing low-cost viral products with fast shipping, especially in the U.S. However, it lacks automation, branded packaging, and seller communication, so it’s not ideal for professional, scalable dropshipping.
Which is better for beginners, Temu or AliExpress?
Temu is simpler and cheaper for beginners testing small products. But AliExpress offers a wider product range, better dropshipping integrations, and more long-term business potential.
Does Temu support Shopify integration?
No. Temu does not currently support Shopify or any dropshipping automation tools. You must manually place each order, which limits scaling and efficiency.
How fast is Temu shipping compared to AliExpress?
Temu shipping is faster in most countries, often delivering within 6–14 days. AliExpress shipping times vary by supplier, ranging from 14 to 35 days or more depending on the location and shipping method.
Conclusion
Temu is great for short-term, fast-selling campaigns. AliExpress remains king for serious dropshippers who need control, tools, and product depth.
In conclusion, Temu vs AliExpress for dropshipping is not a one-size-fits-all decision
Use Temu to test. Use AliExpress to build.
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