Therefore, it is important for the buyers to have adequately comprehended the cost of shipping that is provided by Alibaba in order to make proper purchases with acceptable costs. The following aspects affect these costs; the size, weight of the product, the distance, mode and method of shipping and finally customs duty. There are various ways through which buyers can transport the goods such as airway, ocean freight seaway, or through a courier service, and their pros and cons. Furthermore, working with Incoterms and the regulations of customs duties and taxes, using shipping cost estimation instruments, such as shipping cost calculators and services of freight forwarders, can help buyers predict and control the costs of shipping.
There are four ways that can enable buyers to minimize shipping cost these include; bargaining with suppliers, ways of the shipping time or frequency of shipment, the procedure of shipment and packaging of goods. S. K. Misra explains that the basic yet crucial tactics include correct communication with suppliers, clear understanding of customs’ requirements, and shipping insurance. Applying these elements into practice and adhering to the advice and measures that has been described in this paper, a buyer can successfully navigate the aspects of shipping costs, delivery time issues as well as other essential measures, which make the overall experience of sourcing on Alibaba efficient and affordable.