AliExpress Freebies are a promotional program designed to help sellers generate reviews for their new products. Through this system, users can participate in daily raffles to win items for a nominal fee of $0.01, effectively obtaining products at no cost. The program is structured to reward active participation on the platform, and success is influenced by user engagement. However, participants may encounter specific issues, such as sellers requesting payment for shipping or cancelling orders. The following guide explains the program's mechanics, eligibility, application process, and methods for resolving common problems, based on documented procedures and user reports.
Understanding AliExpress Freebies
AliExpress created the Freebies program to provide sellers with a method to gain reviews for new products. Sellers give away free items from their stores in exchange for a review from the recipient. This creates a mutual benefit: sellers build confidence among potential buyers through social proof, and participants receive a free gift. The program is described as reliable, with the potential to win multiple times if a user maintains consistent participation.
It is important to distinguish Freebies from AliExpress Coins. Freebies are raffles for specific products, where a win results in receiving that product for $0.01. AliExpress Coins, conversely, are points earned by completing missions and making purchases, which can be redeemed for discounts or other rewards.
Eligibility and Participation Rules
Participation in Freebies is governed by specific rules and limitations. Users can only apply for Freebies twice per day, and all applications must be made through the AliExpress mobile app; the desktop website does not support this function. There is no stated geographic restriction within the source material, but participants should ensure their delivery address is accurate to avoid issues with receiving the item.
The program is designed as a raffle, meaning selection is not guaranteed. However, documentation indicates that a user's activity level on the platform can influence their chances. Specifically, leaving ratings on orders is a factor that AliExpress considers, and higher activity can increase the likelihood of winning.
Step-by-Step Application Process
To apply for a Freebie, users must follow a precise procedure within the AliExpress app. First, navigate to the app's home page and locate the top bar. The "Freebies" section may require sliding the bar to the right to view it. Once accessed, users can browse available items, which are organized into categories such as news of the day, electronics, sports, and fashion.
When a desired item is found, the user clicks on it and selects the "Apply for free" option. Before finalizing the request, it is critical to verify that the delivery address saved in the app is correct. An incorrect address may result in failure to receive the item even if the application is successful.
After applying, the user has the opportunity to apply for a second Freebie that day. The application period for a given raffle lasts for seven days. If selected, the user will receive a notification in the app approximately three days after the application period closes.
Post-Win Procedures and Responsibilities
Upon winning a Freebie, the user receives a notification and must then visit the "Pending Orders" section. There, they will see the item with a required payment of $0.01. The user must confirm this payment within three days of receiving the notification. Failure to pay within this three-day window will result in the forfeiture of the prize.
Additionally, when applying for a Freebie, the store from which the item is offered is automatically added to the user's list of favorite stores. This allows the store to send the user messages regarding promotions and coupons. If the user is not interested in ongoing communication from that store, it is recommended to remove it from the favorites list to avoid receiving spam in the AliExpress mailbox.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Participants may encounter several issues during the Freebies process. These include sellers requesting shipping fees, sellers cancelling orders, and receiving an item that does not match the chosen size or color. The following sections address how to handle each scenario based on documented guidance.
Seller Requests for Shipping Costs
A common problem is a seller attempting to charge shipping fees for a Freebie, which violates program rules. If a user sees shipping costs associated with the Freebie order, they should contact the seller to request a modification of the order information to remove these fees. If the seller refuses, users are advised not to cancel the order, as cancellation can penalize the user's ability to win future prizes.
Instead, the user should contact AliExpress customer support via the in-app chat function. The user should explain that the seller is requesting payment for shipping on a Freebie, which is against the program's rules. Customer support will then penalize the seller for non-compliance.
Seller Cancellation of Orders
Some sellers may use the Freebies program to promote their stores but later cancel the order, often claiming the item is out of stock. In such cases, the user should not cancel the order themselves. If the seller ultimately cancels the order, the seller will be penalized by AliExpress. It is important to never cancel a Freebie at the seller's request, as this can negatively impact the user's future eligibility.
Item Specifications (Size and Color)
While sellers typically accommodate requests for specific sizes or colors, they are not obligated to do so. Before applying for a Freebie, users should check the product details to see if options for size or color are available. If the seller does not send the requested variant, the user must accept what is shipped. If the received item is unsuitable, the user can choose to give it away or sell it. Canceling the order is not recommended.
Customs and Import Duties
For U.S. consumers, the source material does not specify whether Freebies are subject to customs duties or import taxes. However, the documentation indicates that users should not have to pay anything in customs for a Freebie. For added assurance, the user can contact the seller and ask them to mark the package as a prize that was not paid for. If a user is unexpectedly asked for money upon delivery, they can refuse the shipment, which will cause it to be returned to the seller.
Strategies to Increase Success
To improve the chances of winning a Freebie, active participation is key. The program is not purely random; AliExpress values user engagement. Consistently leaving detailed and honest reviews on orders can increase the likelihood of being selected for future Freebies. When a user does win and receives a Freebie, they are encouraged to confirm receipt and leave a comment with photos. The more detailed and well-made the review, the more positively AliExpress will view the user for future prize requests.
Failure to follow through, such as not leaving a review after receiving a Freebie, may result in AliExpress blocking the user from applying for more Freebies. Therefore, fulfilling the review obligation is a critical part of the process.
Conclusion
AliExpress Freebies offer a legitimate opportunity for U.S. consumers to obtain products for a nominal fee by participating in a raffle system designed to generate reviews. Success requires understanding the program's rules, including the two-daily application limit, the mandatory $0.01 payment within three days of winning, and the importance of leaving a subsequent review. Participants should be prepared to troubleshoot issues like shipping fee requests or order cancellations by contacting the seller first and escalating to customer support if necessary. While the program is reliable, users must remain vigilant about address accuracy and store communications to ensure a smooth experience.