AliExpress JIT: Making "Zero Inventory" a Reality
Imagine operating without maintaining large stockpiles of goods, fulfilling orders precisely as they come in—with products collected by Cainiao within 24 hours or self-shipped to warehouses within 48 hours. This is no longer a hypothetical scenario but an operational reality through AliExpress's newly launched Just-In-Time (JIT) instant shipping service.
The introduction of JIT represents a transformative shift in cross-border e-commerce, enabling Chinese manufacturers to adapt to the "small-batch, multi-frequency" order patterns characteristic of international markets while establishing truly flexible supply chains. The benefits include:
- Reduced capital pressure: Businesses can allocate resources more efficiently toward product development and marketing rather than tying up funds in inventory.
- Lower inventory risks: Minimize overstock and obsolescence while mitigating market volatility impacts.
- Enhanced operational efficiency: Streamline warehouse management processes and reduce labor costs.
- Market responsiveness: Rapidly adjust product strategies to align with consumer preferences.
This innovation follows similar logistics initiatives by platforms like SHEIN and Temu. Industry analysts suggest this trend will accelerate the transition toward flexible supply chains in Chinese manufacturing, facilitating global market expansion.
Shopify Partners With Flexport: Streamlining Global Logistics
Addressing persistent logistics challenges in cross-border commerce, Shopify has collaborated with supply chain technology leader Flexport to introduce an integrated solution now available in the Shopify App Store.
The Flexport App provides small and medium enterprises with:
- Seamless product catalog integration: Directly manage inventory within Shopify without data transfers.
- Real-time inventory tracking: Monitor SKU-level transit status with estimated arrival times.
- Optimized shipping options: Choose between less-than-container-load (LCL) or full-container-load (FCL) services.
- Simplified customs clearance: Professional handling to prevent delays and additional fees.
- Enhanced cargo protection: Comprehensive coverage against transportation losses.
- Accurate cost projections: Estimate shipping expenses to maintain budget control.
Currently supporting U.S.-bound shipments, Flexport plans to expand service coverage to additional ports this year.
New Air Cargo Routes Accelerate Cross-Border Deliveries
Recent developments in air freight infrastructure are creating faster transit options:
- China Southern Airlines: Launched Guangzhou-Shanghai Pudong-London cargo route with twice-weekly flights.
- DHgate: Introduced 4PX-POSTLINK PRIORITY REGISTERED MAIL service to the U.S. with 7-9 day delivery for parcels under 2kg.
- Ethiopian Airlines: Commenced Xiamen-São Paulo cargo route transporting e-commerce goods, pharmaceuticals, and high-tech products.
- Global Crossing Airlines: Received approval to operate A321 converted freighters across American, Caribbean, European, and Latin American markets.
Shopify Implements Backup Shipping Rates
To prevent checkout disruptions from shipping issues, Shopify now displays alternative shipping rates when primary options are unavailable. Merchants can customize backup rates based on order value or product weight.
USPS Reports Sustained Package Volume Growth
The United States Postal Service's Q1 2023 financial results show a 2.4% year-over-year increase in shipping revenue despite a 3.5% volume decrease. While pandemic-driven e-commerce growth has moderated, package volumes remain above pre-COVID levels.