AliExpress has become a go-to spot for affordable gadgets, fashion, beauty items, and basically everything you can think of. But with its massive range of sellers and products, shopping safely is more important than ever — especially if you’re ordering from Nigeria or Ghana.
So if you’ve ever asked, “How do I avoid fake sellers?”, “Will my goods arrive?”, or “Can I really trust AliExpress?”, this guide is for you.
Let’s break down how to shop safely on AliExpress without losing your money or mind.
1. Only Buy From Verified Sellers
The seller’s reputation is everything on AliExpress. Before you click “Buy”:
Look for 4.5 stars or higher
Check how long the seller has been active (2+ years is best)
Read recent reviews and ratings
Avoid sellers with no feedback or newly created accounts
💡 Pro Tip: Always filter by “Orders” to see the most popular products with proven delivery.
2. Study Product Descriptions and Real Photos
Don’t rely only on the product title — some sellers exaggerate.
Read the full description for size, color, materials, shipping info
Scroll through buyer-uploaded photos to see what the product looks like in real life
Check for words like “Original,” “Authentic,” or “No Box” — they matter
If the description is confusing or too short, skip the item.
3. Avoid Deals That Look Too Good To Be True
If a $300 smartwatch is selling for $7, run. It’s either fake, defective, or a scam listing.
Compare prices with other sellers
Avoid suspiciously cheap listings with no reviews
AliExpress is cheap, but it’s not a miracle zone.
4. Always Use AliExpress Payment Methods
Never pay sellers directly via WhatsApp, crypto, or bank transfer.
Always use AliExpress’s secure checkout.
Your money is held in escrow until you confirm the item was delivered
You can open a dispute and get refunded if there’s an issue
Stick to cards or wallets that support international payments, like Astro Africa’s virtual dollar card.
5. Choose Sellers With Trackable Shipping
If possible, pay a little extra for AliExpress Standard Shipping or Cainiao with tracking.
You’ll receive updates about your package
It reduces the risk of lost or delayed items
Avoid “China Post Ordinary” if you’re not ready for uncertainty
A tracked package is a safe package.
6. Be Patient but Watch the Delivery Timer
AliExpress orders can take 2 to 5 weeks to reach Nigeria or Ghana. Sometimes longer.
But don’t wait too long:
Always check your buyer protection time
If it’s about to expire and your item hasn’t arrived, open a dispute
You can get a full refund if the seller can’t prove delivery
7. Know How Refunds and Disputes Work
AliExpress gives you the option to open a dispute if:
Your order didn’t arrive
The item is fake or not as described
Something arrived broken or incomplete
Once you open a dispute, the seller has a few days to respond. If you’re right, AliExpress will refund you.
Always take pictures and video when unboxing for proof.
8. Use Virtual Dollar Cards to Avoid Bank Drama
Many Nigerian/ Ghanaian cards don’t work well for international shopping.
Use a secure virtual dollar card like Astro Africa’s for smoother payments.
Protects your naira from black market shocks
Reduces card decline issues
Perfect for regular online shoppers
Your Astro Africa card works for AliExpress, Amazon, Shein, and more.
9. Start With Small Items to Test Sellers
If you’re new to AliExpress or unsure about a seller, start small.
Buy a cheap accessory or test product
See how the delivery goes
If all is smooth, you can scale up next time
10. Don’t Forget Customs & Delivery Fees
When your product enters Nigeria or Ghana, it may pass through customs.
For small items under $50, most people don’t pay
For bulk orders or electronics, you might be charged clearance fees
If you’re using shipping agents, ask about total delivery cost
Quick Checklist Before Buying
| What to Check | |
|---|---|
| Seller rating and years of operation | |
| Real buyer photos and reviews | |
| Use secure payment (never outside the app) | |
| Choose trackable shipping | |
| Be wary of suspiciously cheap items | |
| Monitor buyer protection timer | |
| Use Astro virtual card for smooth payment |
AliExpress is one of the best platforms to save money and access global goods, but you need to shop smart.
Whether you’re buying beauty items, gadgets, clothes, or car accessories, follow these tips and you’ll avoid scams, get better deals, and protect your money.
Want to get started?
Create your virtual dollar card on Astro Africa today and shop AliExpress like a boss.
