In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to use CAINIAO for consolidating and shipping your packages efficiently, explore different shipping methods, and show you how to take advantage of discounts.
You can also follow along with the tutorial video:
Step 1: Set Up Your CAINIAO App
First, switch the app UI to English for easier navigation. Log into your CAINIAO account using your phone number with an SMS verification code. Once logged in, tap Go Consolidation to get your designated shipping address in China.
Step 2: Copy and Use Your Shipping Address
Tap to copy the complete address. You can use it on Taobao, JD.com, TikTok Shop, and other platforms — these apps will automatically parse and fill in the address fields for you.
Step 3: Track Your Incoming Orders
Once your packages are delivered to the consolidation warehouse, they will appear in the CAINIAO app under the To Merge tab. This lets you track all incoming packages in one place before consolidation.
Step 4: Choose Your Shipping Method
CAINIAO offers three primary shipping methods from China to the U.S.:
| Method | Estimated Delivery | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Sea Freight | 32–43 business days | Lowest |
| Economy Air Freight | 11–22 business days | Mid-range |
| Standard Air Freight | 10–15 business days | Highest |
Choose based on your budget and how urgently you need the shipment.
Step 5: Understand the Pricing
For a package weighing 5.751 kg, here's a sample cost comparison:
| Method | RMB | USD (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Sea Freight | ¥171 | ~$24 |
| Economy Air Freight | ¥426 | ~$61 |
| Standard Air Freight | ¥516 | ~$73 |
Note: the warehouse may repack your items during consolidation, which can lower the actual chargeable weight and reduce your final cost.
Step 6: Check the Weight Units
CAINIAO calculates shipping charges in 0.5 kg increments. Keep this in mind when selecting orders and methods, as small weight differences can push you into the next billing tier.
Step 7: Apply Your Promo Code to Save on Shipping
Before checkout, enter the promo code for your destination country in the Discount Code field. This small step can lead to significant savings.
| Country/Region | Promo Code |
|---|---|
| United States | USAVE |
| Canada | CANADA |
| Australia | AUSAVE |
| Malaysia | MYSAVE |
| Thailand | THANKS |
| Japan | JPSAVE |
| Russia | RUSSIA |
New users ship up to 1 kg for free.
Step 8: Complete Your Payment
Tap Checkout, add a credit or debit card, and complete the transaction. Once paid, your consolidated package is queued for shipment and you can track it in the app.
Step 9: Monitor Your Order Status
Tap the To Receive tab to check dispatch status and any consolidation refund details. You'll stay informed at every stage until the package arrives at your door.
Conclusion
Shipping from China to the U.S. is straightforward with CAINIAO. Follow these steps to manage your orders, pick the right shipping option, and cut costs with the promo code for your country. Whether you're optimizing for speed or price, CAINIAO's flexible service has you covered.