The Ultimate Guide to Shopping on Taobao: From Account Creation to Delivery Tracking

With millions of goods open at competitive prices, it is no wonder why so many firms turn to Taobao for their sourcing needs. Yet, buying from Taobao can seem daunting, mainly if you need to teach yourself about the platform and its methods.

This article will help you through the steps to successfully buy from Taobao, so you can start sourcing products for your business. This article will cover everything from creating an account, searching for products, and making payments, to shipping and delivery.

With these tips, you can shop confidently on Taobao and access cheap products.

1. Basic

1) What is taobao.com?

Taobao.com is a website where you can buy all kinds of things from China. It’s like a big online store with millions of products, ranging from Taobao clothes and electronics to household items. Sellers from all over China can list their products on Taobao.com for buyers to purchase.

It’s one of the biggest online marketplaces in the world and is known for its wide selection of products and competitive prices.

2) Why should I buy from Taobao?

Buying from Taobao can be a great option for small and medium-sized firms that want to import products from China. The prices on Taobao are often very competitive, and the selection of products is vast. Buying from Taobao can be a good option if you are looking for cheaper products. Since Taobao is a marketplace with many sellers, you can often find goods at lower prices than you would in your local stores. Taobao also has a vast choice of products, so you will likely find what you want. Yet, it is vital to keep in mind that buying from Taobao requires some knowledge of how to navigate the platform. You may need to pay extra fees for shipping and customs if you are buying from outside of China.

3) Preview steps to buy from taobao.com

Here are the steps to buy from Taobao:

• Create an account on Taobao.com – you’ll need to provide personal information, like your name and address, to create Taobao account.
• Search for products – you can use the search bar on Taobao.com to find the products you’re looking for. You can also browse different categories to see what’s available.
• Choose a seller – once you’ve found a product you’re interested in, you’ll need to choose a seller. You can look at their ratings and reviews to help you decide.
• Add the product to your cart – once you’ve found a product and a seller, you can add the product and proceed to checkout.
• Make a payment – Taobao.com accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and online platforms like Alipay. You’ll need to choose a payment method and provide your Taobao payment information.
• Arrange to ship – once you’ve paid, the seller will ship the product to you. You can track the shipping status on Taobao.com.
• Receive the product – Once it arrives, you can confirm your receipt on Taobao.com. If there are any issues with the product, you can communicate with the seller to resolve them. Overall, buying from Taobao.com can be a great way for small and medium-sized businesses to import products from China at competitive prices. By following these steps, you can start buying from Taobao.com with confidence.

2. Creating an Account

1) PC and Mobile Application

Making a Taobao account through the website is easy. Just follow these simple steps:

• Search the Taobao’s website on your browser at www.taobao.com.
• Click “Register” on the upper right corner.
• Choose your country and fill in your details, such as your name, email address, and phone number.
• Create a password and confirm it.
• Complete the security verification process by entering the verification code provided.
• Click on the “Register” button to complete the process. You can browse and shop for Taobao products once you have created an account.

On the other hand, follow these simple steps in creating an account on Taobao through the mobile application: • Download and open the Taobao app on your mobile device.

• Tap on the “My Taobao” tab on the screen’s bottom.
• Tap on the “Register” button. • Choose your country and fill in your personal data, such as your name, email address, and phone number.
• Create a password and confirm it.
• Complete the security verification process by putting the verification code given.
• Tap on the “Register” button to end the process. Once you have made an account, you can browse and shop for goods on Taobao through the mobile application.

2) Sign up for an Account

Here’s how you can sign up for an account on Taobao in simple words: • Go to Taobao’s website or download the app on your mobile device.

• Click on the “Register” button at the page’s top.
• Fill in your personal information, including your name, phone number, and email address.
• Create a password for your account.
• Verify your identity by entering the verification code sent to your phone or email.
• Read and agree to Taobao’s terms and conditions.
• Click on the “Register” button to complete your account registration. And that’s it! You’re now ready to start shopping on Taobao. Just remember to keep your login details safe and secure.

3. Navigating the Website

1) Browse products on Taotao.com using categories, keywords, or images.

Here is a simple guide on how to browse products on Taobao using categories, keywords, or images:

• Go to Taobao’s website or open the app on your mobile device.
•  Browse by category: On the homepage, you’ll see a list of categories such as clothing, electronics, home decor, and more. Click on the category you’re interested in and see a list of subcategories. Click on a subcategory to see a list of products within that subcategory.
• Search by keywords: If you are looking for a specific product, use the search bar at the top of the page. Type in a keyword that describes what you’re looking for, such as “women’s shoes” or “iPhone case,” and press Enter. You’ll see a list of products that match your search query.
• Search by image: If you have a picture of the product you’re looking for, you can use Taobao’s image search feature. Click on the camera icon in the search bar, and then either upload a picture from your device or enter the URL of an online image. Taobao will then show you a list of products that match the image you provided.

And there you have it! These are the simple ways to browse products on Taobao using categories, keywords, or images.

2) Filter search results based on price, rating, and other factors.

Here is how to filter search results on Taobao based on price, rating, and other factors:

• Search for a product: Type in the keywords for the product you’re looking for in the search bar on the Taobao website or Taobao English app, and press Enter.
• Apply filters: Once you see the product list that matches your search query, you can apply filters to refine your search results. Look for the “Filter” or “Refine” option on the webpage, usually located on the left-hand side of the page.
• Choose filters: You can choose different filters, such as price range, seller rating, brand, product features, etc. For example, you can select a price range by dragging the price slider to set the minimum and maximum cost you want to pay. Or you can choose a specific seller rating to only show products sold by highly rated sellers.
• Apply filters: Once you’ve selected your desired filters, click the “Apply” button to update your search results based on your filter settings.
• View filtered results: After applying your filters, you’ll see a list of products that match your criteria. You can now browse these filtered results to find the best product that suits your needs.

These are the simple steps to filter search results on Taobao based on price, rating, and other factors.

3) Save products to your cart or wishlist for future reference.

Here is your guide on how to save products to your cart or wishlist on Taobao for future reference:

• Find a product you want to save: Search for a product or browse through different categories until you find a product you want to save for future reference.
• Add the product to your cart or wishlist: On the product page, you’ll see two options: “Add to cart” and “Add to wishlist.”
• Click “Add to cart” to add the product to your cart. The goods will be added to your shopping cart, and you can check out anytime by clicking on the cart icon.
• Click the “Add to wishlist” button to add the product to your wishlist. The product will be added to your wishlist, and you can access it later by clicking on the heart icon.
• Manage your cart or wishlist: In managing the products in your cart or wishlist, click on the cart or heart icon at the top of the page.
• In your cart, you can view the products you’ve added, remove any products you no longer want, and adjust the number of products you want to buy.
• In your wishlist, you can view the products you’ve saved, remove any products you no longer want to save, and move products from your wishlist to your cart if you’re ready to purchase. And that is it. These are the ways to save products to your cart or wishlist on Taobao for future reference.

4. Placing an Order

1) Adding items to your cart and checking out.

Here is the way how to add items to your cart and check out when placing an order on Taobao:

•  Find a product you want to buy: Search for a product or browse through different categories until you find a product you want to buy.
• Add the product to your cart: Click the “Add to cart” option on the product page, and your goods will be added to your cart.
• Continue shopping: If you want to buy more products, you can continue shopping and adding more items to your cart.
• Review your cart: Once you’ve added all the goods you want to buy to your cart, choose the cart icon at the top of the page to review your order. Make sure the quantity and price of each item are correct.
• Proceed to checkout: Click the “Proceed to checkout” button to start the process.
•  Enter your shipping address: Enter your shipping address, which includes your name, address, and phone number. Ensure your address is accurate so your order can be delivered to the correct location.
•  Choose a shipping method: Choose a shipping method that suits your needs and budget. You’ll see different options, each with other delivery times and prices.
•  Review your order: Review your order once more to ensure everything is correct, including the product details, quantity, price, and shipping method.
• Make payment: Choose a payment method and pay for your order. Taobao accepts various payment options, including credit/debit cards, online banking, and Alipay.
• Complete your order: Once your payment is confirmed, your order will be processed and shipped to your address. You’ll receive a confirmation email or message once your order has been sent.

These are the simple steps to add items to your cart and check out when placing an order on Taobao.

2) Choose payment options.

This is how to choose payment options when placing an order on Taobao:

• Choose payment method: You’ll see different payment options on the payment page. Choose the one you prefer, such as a credit/debit card, online banking, or Alipay.
• Enter payment details: Enter your payment details, such as your card number or Alipay account information. Make sure the information is accurate.
• Review and confirm your order and payment details to ensure everything is correct. Once you’re sure, click the “Confirm and Pay” button.
• Receive confirmation: Once your payment is confirmed, you’ll receive a confirmation email or message from Taobao. These are the simple steps to choose payment options when placing an order on Taobao. Remember to select a payment method that is safe and secure, and always double-check your payment details before submitting them.

3) Set shipping or delivery details.

Here’s a simple guide on how to set shipping or delivery details when placing an order on Taobao:

•  Enter shipping address: On the shipping page, enter your shipping address, including your name, address, and phone number. Ensure your address is accurate so your order can be delivered to the correct location.
• Choose shipping method: Choose a shipping method that suits your needs and budget. You will see different options, each with other delivery times and prices.

These are the simple steps to set shipping or delivery details when placing an order on Taobao.

5. Tracking Your Order

1) Check the status of your order on Taobao.com.

Here is how to check the status of your order on Taobao:

• Log in to your account: Go to Taobao.com and log in to your account using your username and password.
• Go to “My Orders”: Click on the “My Orders” button at the top of the page. It will take you to a page that displays all of your orders.
• Check order status: Find the order you want to check and click the “Details” button next to it. It will take you to a page that shows the order status. These are the simple steps you can use to verify the status of your order on Taobao. Remember to keep track of your order and contact the seller if you have any issues or questions.

2) Track your package once it’s been shipped.

Here is a simple guide on how to track your package once it has been shipped on Taobao:

• Log in to your account: Go to Taobao.com and log in to your account using your username and password.
• Go to “My Orders”: Click on the “My Orders” button at the top of the page. It will take you to a page that displays all of your orders.
• Check order status: Find the order you want to track and click the “Details” button next to it. It will take you to a page that shows the order status.
• Get the tracking number: Look for the tracking number on the order details page. It should be listed under the shipping information.
• Use a tracking tool: Use a tracking tool to track your package. You can use the tracking tool provided by the shipping carrier or Taobao’s tracking tool.
• Enter the tracking number: Enter the tracking number into the tracking tool and click “Track” or “Search.” This will show you the latest information about the location and status of your package.

These are the simple steps to track your package once shipped on Taobao.

3) How to handle any issues with delivery.

Here’s a simple guide on how to handle any issues with delivery on Taobao:

• Contact the seller: If you have yet to receive your package or there are any issues with the delivery, the first step is to contact the seller. You can do this by clicking the “Contact Seller” button on the order details page.
• Explain the issue: Explain the case to the seller and give relevant information, such as the tracking number or shipping address. The seller should be able to help you fix the issue.
• Request a refund or replacement: If your order is lost or damaged during shipping, you can request a refund or replacement from the seller. Make sure to give any vital documentation or proof to support your claim.
• Make a dispute: If the seller is not working with you to help resolve the issue of your order, you can make a dispute with Taobao’s customer service. To do this, click the “Open Dispute” button on the order details page and follow the instructions.
• Follow up on the dispute: Once you have made a dispute, Taobao’s customer service team will study the issue and contact you for more data. Make sure to respond promptly and give any vital proof or documentation.
• Receive a resolution: Taobao’s customer service team will provide a solution, such as a refund or replacement, after studying the issue. Review the resolution carefully and contact customer service with any questions or concerns. These are the simple steps you can use to handle any issues with delivery on Taobao. Remember to keep track of your order and contact the seller or customer service if you have any problems or questions.

6. Returning or Exchanging Items

1) How to return or exchange items on Taobao.com.

If you want to return or exchange an item on Taobao.com, you can follow these simple steps:

• Log in to your Taobao account and go to your order history.
• Find the order containing the item you want to return or exchange.
• Click the “Return” or “Exchange” button next to the item.
•  Choose the reason for the return or exchange and provide any additional data required.
•  Follow the instructions given to the package and send the item back to the seller.
•  Once the seller receives the item, they will check it and either approve or reject the return or exchange.
•  If the return or exchange is approved, you will receive a refund or a new item, depending on your choice. It is vital to note that the return and exchange policy varies depending on the seller, so check their policy before purchasing. Also, remember that you may need to pay return shipping fees.

2) Policies or fees that apply to exchanges and refunds.

The policies and fees for exchanges and refunds on Taobao.com can vary depending on the seller. Here are some points to take note:

• Check the seller’s return and exchange policy before purchasing. Some sellers may not accept returns or exchanges, while others may have exact needs.
• If you want to return or exchange an item, you may need to pay shipping fees to return the item to the seller.
•  The seller receives the item, they will inspect it and either approve or reject the return or exchange.
• If the return or exchange is approved, you may receive a partial or full refund, or the seller may send you a new item. However, remember there may be extra fees or deductions, such as restocking or shipping fees.
• You may only receive a refund or replacement if the seller accepts the return or exchange. It is vital to carefully read the seller’s policies and understand the fees and requirements before purchasing Taobao.com.

3) Tips for preparing items for return or exchange.

If you need to exchange or return an item on Taobao.com, there are a few tips to keep in mind to help ensure a smooth process:

• Keep all original packaging and accessories for the item, if possible. It can help protect the item during shipping and may be required for the return or exchange.
• Check the seller’s return policy before making the return or exchange request. Make sure you understand any exact needs or instructions they have.
• Please take photos of the item before packaging it for return or exchange. It can help provide proof of the item’s shape in case of any disputes.
• Carefully package the item for shipping. Use bubble wrap or other materials to help protect the item and prevent damage during shipping.
• Include any vital papers or data with the package, such as the return or exchange request form or a copy of the original invoice.
• Use a reliable shipping method with tracking and insurance, if possible. It can help ensure the item arrives safely and provide proof of delivery.

These tips can help ensure a successful return or exchange process on Taobao.com.

7. FAQs

1) How to shop on Taobao in English?

Shopping on Taobao in English is possible, but it can be challenging if you need help understanding Chinese. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Use a web browser that can translate Chinese to English. It can help you navigate the Taobao website and understand product descriptions.

2. Use a third-party Taobao shipping agent. These companies can help you purchase items on Taobao and assist with language barriers, shipping, and other issues. Some popular Taobao agents include Superbuy, TaobaoRing, and Yoybuy.

3. Search for English keywords or product names. While the search results may be flawed, this can help you find items more likely to have English descriptions.

4. Use a translation app on your mobile device. You can take a photo of the Chinese text, and the app will translate it for you.

2) What is the difference between Taobao and AliExpress?

The main difference between Taobao and AliExpress is the target audience. Taobao mainly targets the Chinese market, while AliExpress is geared toward global buyers. Taobao offers a wider range of products, including handmade items and unique goods from smaller sellers, while AliExpress focuses more on mass-produced items from larger sellers. Additionally, Taobao needs a Chinese bank account and shipping address, while AliExpress accepts international payment methods and offers to ship to many countries.

3) Can I use a credit card on Taobao?

Yes, you can utilize your credit card to make buys on Taobao. Taobao accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and online platforms like Alipay. You can choose your preferred payment method and enter your credit card information when purchasing. You may need to verify your identity and payment data before processing your trade.

4) Can I use an American card on Taobao?

Yes, you can use an American card to make purchases on Taobao. However, you may need to ensure your credit card is authorized for global trade and can be used in China. Some credit cards may also charge extra fees for it. When buying on Taobao, you can choose your preferred payment method and enter your credit card data, including the card number, expiration date, and security code. Taobao will verify the payment data and process the trade if everything is in order.

5) Is buying on Taobao safe?

Buying on Taobao can be safe as long as you take some precautions. Taobao has enforced various security measures, such as verifying seller information and offering buyer protection programs. However, some risks are involved, such as receiving fake products or having communication problems with sellers who need to speak English. To minimize these risks, it’s vital to:

1. Read seller reviews and ratings before making a purchase.

2. Verify the authenticity of the product before buying.

3. Use secure payment methods, such as Alipay or credit card, which offer buyer protection.

4. Be on alert for deals that seem too good to be true.

5. Use a reputable Taobao shopping agent to help you with language barriers and shipping. These precautions allow you to shop safely on Taobao and avoid fraud.

6) How to buy on Taobao from the US?

To buy on Taobao from the US, you can follow these steps:

1. Create a Taobao account and verify your identity.

2. Search for the item you want to purchase and add it to your cart.

3. Choose a shipping method that is available for your location.

4. Pay for your order using a credit card, Alipay, or other available payment options.

5. Wait for your item to be shipped and delivered to your address.

6. Track your order with the tracking number given by the seller.

7) What is a Taobao shipping agent?

A best Taobao shipping agent is a third-party service that helps buyers purchase and ship items from Taobao to their location. These Taobao purchasing agents connect the buyer and the seller and provide various services, such as language translation, payment processing, quality checks, and the joining of multiple orders. However, using a Taobao buying agent may incur additional fees and shipping costs. Choosing a reputable and reliable shipping agent ensures your buys are sent safely and on time.

8. Conclusion

In conclusion, Taobao is a popular online marketplace that offers various products at competitive prices. As a small or medium-sized firm foreign buyer, buying from China can be made easy through Taobao.

Although the website is primarily in Chinese, with the help of a browser translator or China Taobao agent, it’s possible to navigate and buy products in Taobao English. When shopping on Taobao, ensuring a safe and good trade is vital.

Reading seller reviews, verifying product authenticity, and using secure payment methods can help minimize the risk of scams or fraud. Also, knowing how to return or exchange items and preparing them can make the process easier and smoother.

Overall, buying from Taobao can be a cost-effective way to source goods for your firm. By trying these tips, you can shop confidently and efficiently on Taobao and take the edge of its many goods and deals.