Cainiao, the logistics arm of Alibaba, is expanding its presence to meet the rising demand. AliExpress shoppers are happy with fast delivery.
Cainiao Group, Alibaba’s logistics arm, is expanding its China-Europe logistics network by launching a new chartered flight route from Xi’an, China to Liège, Belgium. This service, operating twice a week, aims to boost cross-border delivery capacity between China and Europe just in time for the peak shopping season.
The inaugural flight, aboard a Boeing 767-300F, carried over 50 tons of cross-border e-commerce goods, including more than 150,000 parcels destined for locations across Europe. Once the goods reach Cainiao’s Liège eHub, they undergo customs clearance, sorting, and are quickly dispatched to countries such as Spain, France, and Germany. This air-to-ground transportation model ensures faster, more reliable deliveries.
A One-Stop Solution for Cross-Border Merchants
Cainiao’s logistics solutions offer cross-border merchants a streamlined, cost-effective way to ship products to Europe. By expanding airfreight capabilities, Cainiao can offer faster delivery times, resulting in higher customer satisfaction. This move is part of the company’s broader mission to create a robust global logistics network, supporting e-commerce growth worldwide.
Cainiao’s European strategy is further strengthened by its smart eHub in Liège, which connects China-Europe flights with an intra-European trucking network spanning over 30 countries. This infrastructure is essential for handling the growing volume of cross-border orders, especially during key shopping seasons.
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Key Milestone in Cainiao’s Global Expansion
Cainiao’s launch of the Xi’an-Liège route marks an important milestone in its global expansion, particularly in Europe. By focusing on localized logistics operations, Cainiao has established its own air cargo terminals, distribution centers, and partnerships with local logistics providers. This has allowed Cainiao to offer end-to-end logistics services, including warehousing, packaging, and last-mile delivery.
With a total warehouse space of over 400,000 square meters across Europe, Cainiao ensures efficient customs clearance, inventory management, and fast delivery for its customers. The company’s use of big data, cloud computing, and AI optimizes sorting, route planning, and inventory allocation, resulting in greater operational efficiency and cost savings.
Supporting Global E-Commerce Growth
As global e-commerce continues to grow, Cainiao’s investment in Europe is well-timed, particularly ahead of major events in 2024, such as the European Cup and the Olympic Games, which are expected to boost demand for cross-border sales. In July 2024, Cainiao saw a 200% increase in shipments from its European warehouse compared to May, highlighting the growing importance of the European market.
Cainiao’s ability to meet this demand is further supported by its partnerships with AliExpress, including the launch of a European Cup Special Line and the creation of a European warehouse in Dongguan, China. This integrated network allows merchants to quickly and efficiently ship products to European customers.
Leveraging Technology and Sustainability
Cainiao’s technological advancements, such as Internet of Things (IoT) tracking, give customers real-time visibility of their parcels, enhancing both trust and customer satisfaction. The company also uses AI to optimize delivery routes, reducing transit time and improving delivery speed.
Sustainability is another key focus for Cainiao. By optimizing logistics routes and working closely with local partners, Cainiao reduces carbon emissions and improves overall logistics safety through advanced algorithms. This approach not only enhances service quality but also provides merchants with a competitive advantage in the increasingly environmentally conscious European market.
Customized Solutions for Cross-Border Sellers
Cainiao offers customized logistics solutions tailored to specific seller needs, including special packaging, insurance for high-value goods, and lightweight logistics services for smaller items. This flexibility ensures that merchants can choose the most suitable and cost-effective options for their businesses.
For example, a fashion brand successfully expanded into the European market by leveraging Cainiao’s overseas warehouses and last-mile delivery services. This reliable logistics support helped the brand build trust with local consumers, leading to increased sales.
Cainiao’s Global Vision
As the largest cross-border e-commerce logistics company in the world, Cainiao handles over 1.5 billion cross-border parcels annually, covering more than 200 countries and regions. With its commitment to globalization and localization, Cainiao continues to offer reliable and efficient logistics solutions for cross-border e-commerce sellers, helping them navigate the complexities of international trade and meet growing customer demand.
As e-commerce in Europe grows, Cainiao’s expanding logistics network and cutting-edge technology will play a crucial role in supporting cross-border merchants and enhancing the overall consumer experience.
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