Dropshipping from AliExpress to Shopify is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to start your own online business. Shopify provides a user-friendly platform to set up your store, while AliExpress offers millions of products ready for you to sell.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about dropshipping from AliExpress to Shopify, from setting up your store to choosing the right products and automating the process so you can get started right away.

Let’s dive in!

What is AliExpress – Shopify Dropshipping?

AliExpress dropshipping is a business model where you sell products from AliExpress on your Shopify store without holding any inventory. When a customer places an order, you purchase the item from a supplier on AliExpress, who then ships it directly to your customer. 

This eliminates the need for upfront inventory costs and simplifies logistics, making it a popular choice for eCommerce entrepreneurs.

You can start dropshipping from AliExpress to Shopify right away for free by using a dropshipping app like DSers. This app helps you quickly add products from Aliexpress to your Shopify store.

Here’s how it works:

1. Find products you want to sell on Aliexpress.
2. Use your dropshipping app to choose a product.
3. Decide how much you want to sell it for.
4. Add the product to your Shopify store and customize the product page.
5. When someone orders the product, your app tells the Aliexpress seller.
6. The AliExpress seller ships the product directly to your customer.

Why Dropshipping From AliExpress To Shopify?

When considering dropshipping from AliExpress to Shopify, it’s essential to understand the key advantages that make this model appealing. Below are the main benefits of using AliExpress for dropshipping on Shopify:

• Low startup costs: AliExpress enables dropshippers to source products at affordable prices, often without minimum order requirements, significantly lowering initial investment risks.
• Wide product selection: The platform offers a vast array of products across numerous categories, allowing dropshippers to easily discover niche items or trending products.
• Ease of use: Shopify’s intuitive interface, combined with dropshipping applications, facilitates the straightforward process of importing products from AliExpress into a Shopify store.
• Automated order fulfillment: Dropshipping apps streamline order processing by automatically sending customer orders to AliExpress suppliers for fulfillment, improving operational efficiency.
• Global reach: Many suppliers on AliExpress offer international shipping options, enabling sellers to connect with customers worldwide without managing shipping logistics themselves.
• Reduced financial risk: Since products are purchased only after a sale is made, there is minimal risk of holding unsold inventory, a common issue in traditional retail models.

However, there are still notable challenges that sellers must navigate, including:

• Longer shipping times can lead to customer dissatisfaction
• Higher chance of scams from unreliable suppliers who fail to deliver products or provide false tracking information.
• Returns and refunds complexity.
• The accessibility of AliExpress means that many sellers may offer similar products, making the competition is much harder. 

How to Dropship from AliExpress to Shopify: A Detailed Guide

Step 1: Preparation

To get started, you’ll need to create accounts on both AliExpress and Shopify. This step is essential as it lays the groundwork for linking AliExpress to Shopify later on.

1. Sign up for a Shopify account and set up your store

Before connecting AliExpress for dropshipping, you need a Shopify store. 

Create a Shopify account:

• Visit shopify.com and click “Start free trial.”

• Fill in your email, password, and store name (you can change the name later).
• Skip or complete the setup questions as needed.
• Once done, you’ll land on your Shopify Dashboard.

Basic store setup:

• Choose a theme: Go to Online Store > Themes and pick a free or paid theme that fits your niche.
• Add key pages: Create pages like About Us, Contact, Shipping Policy, and Refund Policy under Online Store > Pages.
• Customize your store: Use “Customize” to adjust layout, colors, fonts, and upload your logo.
• Set up payment methods: Go to Settings > Payments and choose your preferred payment providers (e.g., Shopify Payments, PayPal).
• Set up shipping: Under Settings > Shipping and Delivery, define your shipping zones and rates (many dropshippers offer free shipping).

Related posts: 

• 10 Best Unique Shopify Themes You Should Know In 2025
• 10 Best Free Shopify Themes for Your Shopify Store

2. Create an AliExpress account

To set up your AliExpress account, follow these steps:

• Open your preferred web browser and go to www.aliexpress.com, or download the AliExpress app from your app store.
• On the homepage, locate the “Sign In/Register” option in the top-right corner of the screen (or bottom for the app). Click “Register.”
• Enter your details about your email address and password.
• Verify your email, and AliExpress will send a verification code to your email. Check your inbox, retrieve the code, and enter it on the registration. 
• Once verified, click “Register” or “Submit.” Your account will be successfully created. 

Alternatively, you can sign up using third-party accounts like Google, Facebook, Twitter, or Apple for quicker registration.

Once your Shopify store and AliExpress are set up, you’re ready for Step 2: Researching and Finding the lucrative products on AliExpress.

Step 2: Researching For Niche and Quality Products On AliExpress

Next, let’s discuss the concept of a niche market. A niche market refers to smaller sub-segments within a larger market, each characterized by specific needs, preferences, and identities that distinguish them from the broader market. 

Step 2.1: Identify Your Dropshipping Niche

• Brainstorm ideas: List out your interests, trending hobbies, or categories you’re knowledgeable about (pets, fitness, home decor, beauty, gadgets, etc.).
• Validate niche demand:
  • Visit Google Trends and enter niche keywords to evaluate interest over time.
  • Use social media platforms (TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest) to spot trending or viral products.

Step 2.2: Search for Popular Products on AliExpress

• Visit AliExpress.com, enter your niche keywords in the search bar or use the “Top Rankings” section on the AliExpress homepage to identify trending products across categories like Consumer Electronics, Health & Beauty, and Home & Garden. Rankings are updated weekly and include metrics like views, orders, and wishlists.

Sort products by:

• Look for products with 1,000+ orders, 4.5+ star ratings, and lots of positive reviews.
• Check how many times the item has been added to wishlists or shared.

Step 2.3: Choose Reliable Suppliers

• Opt for suppliers marked as: Top Brand, AliExpress Premium, or those with at least a 95% positive feedback rating.
• Review supplier metrics carefully, including:
  • How long they’ve been in business (ideally 2+ years).
  • Shipping methods offered (AliExpress Standard Shipping or ePacket recommended).
  • Seller responsiveness and communication rating.

 Step 2.4: Analyze Competitors & Market Trends

• Conduct competitor analysis by:
  • Searching Google for your niche/product keywords (e.g., “best dog harness Shopify”).
  • Visiting successful Shopify stores, analyzing their product selection, pricing, marketing tactics, and customer reviews.
• Use competitor research tools such as Shine Commerce, Koala Inspector, and AliHunter Chrome Extension.
• Follow relevant hashtags on social media (Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest) to track real-time product popularity.

Step 2.5: Test Product Quality Before Selling

• If possible, order sample products to personally verify quality, packaging, and shipping time.
• Alternatively, carefully review existing YouTube unboxing videos or detailed customer reviews for genuine customer experiences.

After completing these steps, you’ll be ready for Step 3: Importing Selected Products into Shopify Using a Dropshipping App.

Step 3: Importing Products From AliExpress to Your Shopify Store

Once you’ve established your Shopify store and identified a product category and supplier, it’s time to start importing products from AliExpress to your Shopify store.

To import products to Shopify, in the Shopify dashboard, click “Products.”

You can import AliExpress to Shopify in 3 ways:

• Manual Import: If you only have a few products to add, you can manually copy and paste product details (title, description, images) from AliExpress to your Shopify store.
• Import AliExpress In Bulk: Use the Shopify CSV file template, giving you more control over the presentation.
• Dropshipping Apps: For larger inventories or a more automated approach, consider using dropshipping apps like DSers or Zopi. These apps allow you to import products directly from AliExpress with just a few clicks. 

Step 3.1. Import AliExpress products manually

• From your Shopify Admin dashboard, click “Products” → “Add product,” then manually enter the details (title, description, images, price, etc.).

Step 3.2. Import Products in Bulk (CSV Import)

• In your Shopify Admin, click “Products” → “Import.”

• Upload your product list using a CSV file formatted by clicking “Add file” according to Shopify’s provided CSV template.

Step 3.3 Import AliExpress products using dropshipping apps (Recommended) 

Two methods are quite time-consuming, so using Shopify dropshipping apps saves significant time and automates product importing, pricing, and order fulfillment. In my article, I will choose to import products from AliExpress to Shopify using DSers.

Using DSers for AliExpress to Shopify integration:

• Install the DSers Chrome Extension.
• Browse products on AliExpress.
• Click “Add to DSers” to seamlessly transfer products to your Shopify store.

Step 4: Launching and Promoting Your Store

With your Shopify store built and stocked with products, you can launch your store and start selling.

But, before launching, you need to make sure everything is running smoothly and you have a solid marketing plan in place.

Pre-Launch Checklist

Here’s what you should do:

• Test Orders: Place a few test orders to experience the checkout process from a customer’s perspective. This helps you identify any potential issues and ensure a seamless shopping experience.
• Website Performance: Test your website’s speed and responsiveness on different devices. A slow or buggy website can deter customers and hurt your sales.
• Payment Gateway: Verify that your payment gateway is set up correctly and that you can successfully process payments.
• Shipping Settings: Double-check your shipping rates and options to ensure they’re accurate and competitive.
• Product Information: Review your product listings for accuracy, completeness, and visual appeal.
• Legal Pages: Ensure you have essential legal pages, such as a privacy policy, terms of service, and refund policy, to comply with regulations and build trust with customers.

Creating a Marketing & SEO Plan

Driving traffic to your store is crucial for generating sales. To get more people to your store, you need to develop a comprehensive marketing plan that includes:

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Optimize your website and product listings for search engines to improve your organic rankings and attract free traffic.
• Social Media Marketing: Build a presence on relevant social media platforms and engage with your target audience.
• Content Marketing: Create valuable content, such as blog posts or videos, to attract visitors and establish your brand as an authority.
• Email Marketing: Build an email list and send newsletters or promotions to nurture leads and drive sales.
• Paid Advertising: To reach a wider audience, consider running targeted advertising campaigns on platforms like Google Ads or Facebook Ads.

Step 5: Managing Your Dropshipping Business

Once your store is launched, the real work begins! Efficiently managing orders, shipping and customer service is crucial for long-term success.

Handling Orders Efficiently

• Automating Order Fulfillment: Use apps like DSers, Zopi, or Spocket to process orders seamlessly. Once a customer orders from your store, these tools automatically forward details to the AliExpress supplier.
• Order Confirmation: Send order confirmation emails with all the necessary details, including the order number, products purchased, and shipping information.
• Shipment Tracking: Provide customers with tracking numbers and updates to keep them informed about the progress of their orders.

Managing Customer Service and Returns

• Providing Great Customer Support: Be available to answer customer questions quickly via live chat, email, or social media. Shopify apps like Chatty, Gorgias or Zendesk can help you streamline customer support.
• Returns and Refunds: Establish a clear return policy and work with AliExpress suppliers who accept returns to handle returns or refunds smoothly.

Dropshipping from AliExpress to Shopify: Best Practices for Success

While dropshipping offers a convenient way to start an e-commerce business, achieving success requires more than just setting up a store and importing products. Here are some best practices to help you succeed:

Choose Reliable Suppliers

• Always select suppliers with high ratings, positive reviews, and a track record of timely shipping.
• Look for suppliers who communicate well and offer ePacket shipping for faster delivery times.
• Treat your suppliers as partners and communicate clearly with them to ensure smooth order processing and address any potential issues.

Focus on Product Quality

• Order samples to test product quality before listing them on your store.
• Avoid products with vague or inconsistent descriptions and poor images.

Build a Strong Brand

• Customize your Shopify store to look professional and trustworthy. Use consistent branding, from your logo to product pages.
• Differentiate yourself with branded packaging (if available) or unique value propositions like curated product collections.

Stay Informed and Adapt

• Keep up with industry trends. The e-commerce landscape is constantly evolving, so stay informed about new trends, technologies, and best practices.
• Be adaptable. Be willing to adjust your strategies and product offerings based on customer feedback and market changes.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Dropshipping from AliExpress to Shopify can be a lucrative business model, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some of the primary challenges and strategies to overcome them:

1. Long shipping times

• The Challenge: Standard shipping from AliExpress, especially from China, can take 2–4 weeks, which may frustrate customers.
• How to Overcome It:
  • Choose suppliers that offer faster shipping options, like ePacket or premium carriers.
  • Be transparent about delivery times on your product pages and in confirmation emails.
  • Offer tracking updates to keep customers informed.
  • Consider adding a “fast-shipping” section with select products for quicker delivery.

2. Product Quality and Supplier Reliability

• The Challenge: Inconsistent product quality can lead to customer complaints, refunds, and negative reviews. Some suppliers might delay shipments, run out of stock, or stop responding, affecting your orders.
• Solution:
  • Check supplier ratings, reviews, and communication responsiveness before partnering with them.
  • Test the quality of products and the supplier’s shipping practices before listing them in your store.
  • Establish clear communication channels and address any concerns promptly.

3. High Competition

• The Challenge: Many sellers source similar products from AliExpress, making it hard to stand out.
• How to Overcome It:
  • Focus on branding: customize your store with professional themes, engaging product descriptions, and high-quality visuals.
  • Provide exceptional customer service to build trust and repeat sales.
  • Bundle products or offer unique promotions to create added value.
  • Leverage targeted marketing strategies like Facebook Ads or influencer collaborations.

4. Handling Returns and Refunds

• The Challenge: Returns can be tricky since products are shipped directly from the supplier.
• How to Overcome It:
  • Set a clear and fair return policy on your website.
  • Work with suppliers who accept returns or offer partial refunds.
  • Offer store credit or partial refunds to retain dissatisfied customers when returns aren’t feasible.

Three Successful AliExpress Dropshipping Stores You Should Know

Here are some real-life examples of profitable dropshipping stores that have effectively used AliExpress, along with key takeaways from their strategies:

1. Notebook Therapy

• Niche: Aesthetic stationery and lifestyle accessories
• Primary target market: Young adults, students, and creative professionals

Key strategies

• Focused on unique, visually appealing stationery items
• Carefully selected products with aesthetic appeal
• Developed a cohesive brand identity around minimalist, Japanese-inspired design

• Leveraged Instagram influencer marketing
• Created visually stunning product photography
• Developed a strong brand narrative around creativity and mindfulness

2. Warmly Decor

• Niche: Home Improvement
• Products offered: High-ticket lamps, furniture, and bathroom fittings

Key strategies

• Focused on higher-margin products while maintaining a customer-centric approach.
• Offered value-added features like a money-back guarantee and free shipping, despite longer shipping times.

3. Sage & Sill

• Niche: Home and Garden
• Products offered: Sage & Sill specializes in a variety of home and garden products, including planters, gardening tools, and decorative items.

Key strategies

• Strong branding: The store emphasizes a cohesive brand identity that resonates with gardening enthusiasts, enhancing customer loyalty.
• Quality product presentation: High-quality images and detailed product descriptions are used to showcase the benefits and features of each item, making it easier for customers to make informed purchasing decisions.
• Engagement through content: Sage & Sill actively engages customers through informative blog posts and social media content related to gardening tips and trends, positioning themselves as experts in the niche.
• Customer-centric policies: They offer clear shipping policies and customer support, reassuring buyers about their purchase decisions.

Bottom Line

Dropshipping from AliExpress to Shopify presents an exciting opportunity to launch an online store without the hassle of managing inventory or handling product shipping. By following essential steps, you’ll be well-equipped to succeed in dropshipping on AliExpress with Shopify.

Thank you for reading!

Dropshipping from AliExpress to Shopify: FAQs