As import rules tighten, more shoppers are exploring china package forwarding USA options to keep buying their favorite products at lower costs. How U.S. Shoppers Are Beating Rising Costs on AliExpress, Temu & SHEIN
With prices climbing on popular Chinese e-commerce platforms like AliExpress, Temu, and SHEIN, American shoppers are searching for creative ways to save money on their orders. One emerging strategy? Using international mail forwarding services to bypass direct shipping from China to the U.S.
The Problem: Rising Costs for Chinese Imports
Recent trade policy changes mean that goods shipped directly from China to the U.S. now face higher fees and tariffs. While the exact costs fluctuate, one thing is clear: shopping on AliExpress, Temu, and SHEIN won’t be as cheap as before.
But it’s not just these platforms—many U.S. retailers (Walmart, Gap, Nike, Lululemon, etc.) also rely on Chinese manufacturing. As a result, price increases could ripple across the entire market, making bargain-hunting even more crucial.
If you’re looking to stock up before prices go even higher, be sure to check the 2025 AliExpress sales calendar to catch the biggest discounts of the year.
The Workaround: Mail Forwarding from a Third Country
Some savvy shoppers are exploring an alternative route:
- Order from AliExpress/Temu/SHEIN → Ship to a mail forwarding service in another country (e.g., Mexico, Canada, UK, or EU).
- The forwarder then reships the package to the U.S. under a different customs declaration.
Why This Could Help:
- Avoids direct China-to-U.S. shipping fees that trigger higher tariffs.
- May classify goods under a different origin, reducing import costs.
- Consolidates multiple orders into one shipment, saving on per-package fees.
Potential Challenges:
- Longer shipping times (extra leg in transit).
- Forwarding service fees (could offset savings).
- Customs risks (incorrect declarations may lead to seizures).
Is This a Long-Term Solution?
While mail forwarding offers a short-term workaround, its viability depends on:
✔ How strictly customs enforce origin rules
✔ Whether platforms restrict indirect shipping
✔ If forwarding services remain cost-effective
For now, it’s an option—but buyers should compare costs carefully before relying on it.
Is It Legal to Use Package Forwarding Services?
Yes, using international package forwarding services is generally legal. Many U.S. shoppers use third-party logistics providers to route their purchases through other countries before having them delivered to the United States. These services typically comply with international shipping laws and customs regulations. However, buyers are still responsible for declaring the goods properly and paying any applicable duties or taxes upon entry into the U.S. Misdeclaring package contents or values to avoid tariffs can be considered customs fraud and may lead to penalties. As with any workaround, it’s important to stay informed and make sure you’re following current import rules.
Many savvy shoppers in the U.S. are turning to China package forwarding services as a smart way to continue buying from popular platforms like AliExpress, Temu, and SHEIN without facing the full impact of rising import costs. These forwarding companies help redirect Chinese online orders through intermediate countries, making it easier to manage customs declarations, reduce shipping taxes, and maintain access to affordable Chinese goods. Whether you’re ordering clothing, electronics, or small home items, a reliable freight forwarding provider can simplify cross-border shipping and help avoid delays or unexpected import duties. This approach has become increasingly popular as U.S. consumers look for cheaper alternatives to direct shipping from China, especially with changing tariff regulations in 2025.
What Is Package Forwarding?
Package forwarding is a service that allows buyers to have their orders shipped to an address outside the U.S.—often in a country not affected by the same import restrictions—before being forwarded to the final American address. In practice, this means a customer might have a small parcel from China delivered to Canada, the UK, or another intermediary location. From there, the package is redirected to the U.S., sometimes helping the buyer avoid higher duties or delays associated with direct shipments from China.
Why Are Shoppers Turning to Forwarding Services?
While the exact impact of new tariffs is still unfolding, one thing is certain: prices for Chinese goods in the U.S. are rising. Although AliExpress, Temu, and SHEIN have built reputations on affordability, they are not immune to broader trade regulations. The changes also won’t only affect direct-from-China retailers. As reported by the Associated Press, roughly 97% of clothing purchased in the U.S. is imported from Asia, meaning price hikes may soon extend to mainstream brands like Walmart, Gap, Nike, and others.
As a result, price-conscious consumers are experimenting with forwarding services to minimize their expenses. For some, it’s worth the extra step if it means keeping shopping habits intact.
Not Just for Big Spenders
It’s easy to assume that only high-volume buyers or resellers would go through the trouble of using a forwarding service. But on forums like Reddit and Facebook groups dedicated to budget shopping, average consumers are already discussing which forwarding companies are most reliable, how to consolidate orders, and what tricks help avoid extra customs fees.
Some forwarding companies even offer local storage or package consolidation, helping users bundle multiple orders into one box and possibly reduce international shipping costs.
A Risky but Increasingly Popular Option
It’s worth noting that forwarding services come with their own challenges—extra shipping time, potential for lost packages, and unclear customs rules. Still, for shoppers who are determined to stick with their favorite Chinese marketplaces, these services represent a flexible workaround in uncertain times.
While forwarding is far from a perfect solution, it may serve as a temporary lifeline for those unwilling to give up affordable gadgets, clothing, or household items sourced from Chinese platforms.
Final Thoughts
As prices rise, U.S. shoppers are getting more creative with their online purchases. While mail forwarding isn’t perfect, it highlights how global e-commerce adapts to trade changes.
As international shipping regulations evolve, using a China-to-USA package forwarding service can be a practical solution for anyone looking to continue shopping on platforms like AliExpress, Temu, and SHEIN. By choosing a trusted freight forwarding partner, you can gain more control over how your items are shipped, potentially save on import fees, and still enjoy the benefits of affordable Chinese products. If you’re not ready to give up your favorite deals, exploring package redirection options might be your best bet in 2025 and beyond.
Will this method last? Only time—and customs policies—will tell.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Shipping regulations change frequently; always verify the latest rules before making international purchases. Forwarding services may have legal and logistical risks—research thoroughly before using them.
