Starting or scaling a dropshipping business in 2025 requires choosing the right supplier. Two of the most popular platforms are AliExpress and CJ Dropshipping. While both serve the same purpose—connecting you with suppliers—they differ in significant ways that can impact your business’s profitability and customer satisfaction.
Table Of Content
- What Is AliExpress?
- What Is CJ Dropshipping?
- Key Differences Between AliExpress and CJ Dropshipping
- Shipping Speed & Logistics
- Real-World Example
- Product Quality & Variety
- Pricing & Profit Margins
- A Quick Tip
- Branding & Packaging Options
- Customer Support Experience
- Tools & Integrations
- What I Learned Running a Dropshipping Store
- Key Takeaways
- Final Verdict: Which One Is Better?
- Start Your Dropshipping Business Journey Today
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of AliExpress and CJ Dropshipping, compare their features, pricing, logistics, and support, and share real-life insights to help you make an informed decision.
What Is AliExpress?
AliExpress is a global retail platform owned by Alibaba Group, allowing individuals and businesses to buy products directly from manufacturers—mostly based in China. It became widely popular among dropshippers for its vast product range, low prices, and no upfront inventory requirements.
Many dropshippers use tools like Oberlo (previously) or DSers to import products from AliExpress directly to their Shopify or WooCommerce stores.
Pros:
- Huge product variety
- No minimum order requirement
- Easy integrations with Shopify, WooCommerce, and more
Cons:
- Long shipping times (especially standard shipping)
- Varying product quality
- Limited branding options
What Is CJ Dropshipping?
CJ Dropshipping is a full-service dropshipping solution offering sourcing, fulfillment, and shipping, often with faster logistics than AliExpress. It also includes value-added services like custom branding, white labeling, and warehousing.
Unlike AliExpress, which is a marketplace, CJ Dropshipping acts more like a partner, giving you a more hands-on experience with better support.
Pros:
- Faster shipping times (especially with US/EU warehouses)
- Custom branding and packaging
- Reliable quality control and support
Cons:
- Smaller product range compared to AliExpress
- Slightly higher product costs in some cases
Key Differences Between AliExpress and CJ Dropshipping
| Feature | AliExpress | CJ Dropshipping |
|---|---|---|
| Product Range | Extensive | Moderate |
| Shipping Speed | Slower | Faster (with local warehouses) |
| Branding | Limited | Customizable |
| Integration | Excellent | Excellent |
| Support | Varies by seller | Centralized, responsive |
| Fulfillment | Decentralized | Streamlined |
| Pricing | Lower base prices | Slightly higher, but value-added |
Shipping Speed & Logistics
AliExpress shipping can take anywhere from 15 to 45 days, especially if you’re using standard options. While some suppliers offer ePacket or AliExpress Premium Shipping, these come with higher fees.
CJ Dropshipping, on the other hand, offers 5–15 day shipping to major markets like the U.S. and Europe, thanks to its multiple warehouses. For stores targeting fast delivery, CJ has a clear edge.
Real-World Example:
In my own dropshipping store targeting the U.S. market, switching from AliExpress to CJ reduced my average delivery time from 21 days to just 7 days, significantly lowering refund requests and boosting customer satisfaction.
Product Quality & Variety
AliExpress wins in terms of sheer product volume. You’ll find millions of products across every imaginable category. However, the quality varies drastically.
CJ Dropshipping offers fewer products but tends to focus on quality-verified items. They also allow you to request product sourcing for items not currently in their catalog.
If your business depends on consistency and customer retention, CJ’s quality assurance system offers more peace of mind.
Pricing & Profit Margins
AliExpress generally offers lower upfront prices, which can mean higher margins—but only if you avoid returns and chargebacks due to poor quality or slow shipping.
CJ Dropshipping’s prices are sometimes slightly higher, but they include value-added services like custom packaging, faster shipping, and order tracking, which can justify the cost.
A Quick Tip:
If you’re testing products or running ads aggressively, CJ’s faster shipping can help you scale quickly without the risk of negative reviews from slow delivery.
Branding & Packaging Options
AliExpress doesn’t offer much room for custom branding unless you negotiate directly with the seller.
CJ Dropshipping, however, excels in this area. You can add your logo, thank-you cards, branded packaging, and even private label products, making it easier to build a trustworthy brand.
In 2025, with customer expectations rising, branding is no longer optional—it’s essential.
Customer Support Experience
With AliExpress, you’re dealing with individual sellers. Some are responsive; others are not. Disputes can be lengthy and often feel one-sided.
CJ Dropshipping has a dedicated support team, with real-time chat and ticket systems. Their centralized model ensures more accountability and quicker resolutions.
Tools & Integrations
Both platforms integrate well with major eCommerce platforms like:
- Shopify
- WooCommerce
- Wix
- Etsy (via CJ)
CJ Dropshipping also provides tools for:
- Inventory management
- Auto-sync order tracking
- Custom product sourcing
AliExpress shines with its large ecosystem of third-party tools like DSers, AliDropship, and Dropified, making it easier for tech-savvy dropshippers to automate their workflows.
What I Learned Running a Dropshipping Store
I started my first dropshipping business in 2019 using AliExpress. It was easy to get started, but I faced challenges with delayed shipping and inconsistent product quality.
In 2023, I tested CJ Dropshipping for a niche gadget store. The onboarding experience was smooth, support was responsive, and my branded packaging helped increase customer trust. Within 3 months, my refund rate dropped by 40%, and my store’s Trustpilot score improved significantly.
Key Takeaways:
- Don’t chase only lower costs—consider delivery time and product reliability
- Branding makes a difference in long-term success
- Good supplier relationships = better customer retention
Final Verdict: Which One Is Better?
If you’re just starting out and want to test a wide range of products, AliExpress is a solid choice due to its vast catalog and no upfront costs.
However, if you’re serious about building a long-term dropshipping business in 2025—with branding, customer loyalty, and fast shipping—CJ Dropshipping is the better partner.
Each platform has its strengths, and the right choice depends on your business model, goals, and target market.
Start Your Dropshipping Business Journey Today
Choosing the right supplier is just one piece of the puzzle. Platforms like Shopify, CJ Dropshipping, and tools like DSers can help streamline your process and boost profitability.
Start small, test your products, build your brand, and focus on delivering real value to your customers.
Ready to launch or scale your store? Take the first step today and set your dropshipping business up for success in 2025.
Success in dropshipping business isn’t about luck—it’s about learning, testing, and staying consistent. Start small, think big, and never stop optimizing.
