Cainiao, a subsidiary of the Alibaba Group, is a logistics powerhouse that has transformed the e-commerce landscape by offering innovative solutions for shipment tracking, delivery, and warehousing. In this article, we will explore the company's background, headquarters, services, and unique tracking features.
Company Background and Headquarters
Cainiao Smart Logistics Network Limited was founded in 2013 by Alibaba Group, in collaboration with several other investors and logistics companies. The company's headquarters are located in Hangzhou, China. With a mission to optimize the logistics sector, Cainiao leverages advanced technologies such as big data, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to offer cutting-edge solutions.
Delivery Services
Cainiao offers a wide range of delivery services, including:
Domestic Logistics
Cainiao's domestic logistics services ensure efficient delivery of goods within China. The company collaborates with various logistics providers and uses its advanced data analytics capabilities to optimize routing and transportation.
Cross-border Logistics
Cainiao has an extensive global logistics network that enables faster and more cost-effective delivery of goods from China to consumers worldwide. The company works with international carriers to provide seamless cross-border shipping services.
Last-mile Delivery
Cainiao is also focused on improving last-mile delivery through innovative solutions, such as crowdsourced delivery networks and autonomous delivery vehicles.
Shipment Tracking with Cainiao
How Cainiao Shipment Tracking Works?
Cainiao's logistics information platform connects shippers, carriers, warehouses, and third-party logistics providers, allowing for real-time tracking and data analysis. Customers can track their shipments through the platform using their unique tracking number.
Tracking Number Format
Cainiao tracking numbers typically consist of a series of alphanumeric characters, varying in length depending on the carrier or logistics provider (e.g. LP0123456789). Customers can input their tracking number on the Cainiao tracking platform or on our package tracking platform to access real-time shipment information.
Shipment Delivery Time
Delivery times vary depending on the destination and shipping method chosen. Domestic shipments within China usually take between 1 and 7 days, while international shipments can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Cainiao works closely with its partners to ensure timely delivery of goods.
How to Contact Cainiao
If you encounter any issues with your shipments or require assistance with tracking, you can contact Cainiao's customer service through their website, where they offer a help center and FAQs to address common concerns. Alternatively, you can reach out to the carrier or logistics provider directly for more specific inquiries.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cainiao
How to track Cainiao shipments?
To track a Cainiao shipment, enter your tracking number into the designated field and click on the "Carrier" button. Then, select "Cainiao" from the options. If you are unsure about which carrier is handling your shipment, the system can automatically identify the carrier for you. Next, click the "Track" button. You will be redirected to a tracking results page, where detailed information about your shipment's status and location is displayed.
What does a Cainiao tracking number look like?
Cainiao tracking numbers consist of alphanumeric characters and vary in length depending on the carrier or logistics provider, meaning there is no universal format for these numbers. For instance:
- If your shipment is dispatched with China Post, the tracking number might look something like LE123456789CN.
- For items shipped using SF Express, the tracking number may appear as SF123456789.
- Shipments carried by DHL could have a tracking number resembling 123456789.
It's important to note that within the Cainiao system, many tracking numbers are labeled in a standardized format, such as LP123456789, even if the actual tracking number provided by the carrier is different. This labeling helps streamline the tracking process within Cainiao's platform, ensuring users can easily follow their shipments from various carriers through a unified interface.
How long does it take for my shipment to be delivered?
Delivery times vary depending on the destination and shipping method. Domestic shipments within China usually take between 1 and 7 days, while international shipments can take from a few days to several weeks.
How can I contact Cainiao if I have an issue with my shipment?
If you encounter any issues with your shipment, it's important to note that Cainiao Network acts as a technology platform facilitating shipment tracking for Alibaba Group's e-commerce ecosystems, such as AliExpress and Alibaba.com, rather than directly handling the shipments. For specific inquiries or issues related to your shipment, please contact the AliExpress or Alibaba seller from whom you purchased your item. These sellers are responsible for the shipment of your goods and can provide you with support, including updates on shipping status, resolving issues with delivery, and answering any questions about your order.
What is Cainiao and how does it work?
Cainiao Smart Logistics Network Limited, a subsidiary of Alibaba Group, operates as a logistics and technology company that enhances the efficiency of shipping and delivery services across the Alibaba Group’s e-commerce platforms. It connects various logistics partners and uses advanced technology to provide real-time tracking information and logistical support. Cainiao's platform aggregates data from different carriers to offer customers a single point for tracking their shipments from AliExpress, Tmall, and other Alibaba-affiliated platforms.
What should I do if my shipment is delayed?
If your shipment is delayed, first check the estimated delivery time provided by your AliExpress or Alibaba seller. Shipping times can vary based on the shipping method and destination. If the delivery is beyond the estimated timeframe, contact the seller for further assistance. They can provide updates on the shipment status and help resolve any delays.
Can Cainiao provide assistance with lost shipments?
For issues related to lost shipments, it's recommended to contact the seller on AliExpress or Alibaba where you made your purchase. The seller can investigate the issue with the carrier and, if necessary, offer a resolution such as a refund or reshipment. Cainiao, as a logistics information platform, does not directly manage shipments or offer customer support for lost packages but provides tracking information and logistical insights.
What services does Cainiao offer?
Cainiao offers a range of logistical and technological services aimed at improving the efficiency and reliability of e-commerce shipments. This includes sophisticated data analytics for optimizing shipping routes, smart warehousing solutions, and the development of innovative delivery methods such as autonomous drones and robots. Cainiao's platform integrates with a wide network of domestic and international logistics partners to streamline the delivery process for Alibaba Group’s e-commerce platforms.
About Cainiao
Cainiao Smart Logistics Network Limited, or simply Cainiao, is a Chinese logistics company founded in May 28, 2013 by Alibaba Group, along with other investors such as Fosun Group, China Life Insurance, and other major Chinese logistics companies. Cainiao was established to create a more efficient and streamlined logistics network in China to support the rapidly growing e-commerce industry.
Cainiao leverages advanced technologies such as big data, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to optimize its operations and provide innovative solutions to logistics challenges. The company operates a logistics information platform that connects various stakeholders in the supply chain, such as shippers, carriers, warehouses, and third-party logistics providers, to offer real-time tracking and data analysis.
The company has been working on several initiatives to improve the logistics industry, such as:
- Building smart warehouses and distribution centers that utilize automation, robotics, and data analysis to optimize storage, picking, and delivery processes.
- Developing innovative last-mile delivery solutions, including crowd-sourced delivery networks and autonomous delivery vehicles.
- Expanding its global logistics network to support cross-border e-commerce, enabling faster and more cost-effective delivery of goods from China to consumers around the world.
Cainiao has played a crucial role in the growth and success of Alibaba's e-commerce platforms, such as Taobao and Tmall, by significantly reducing delivery times and improving customer experience. As the company continues to invest in technology and expand its reach, Cainiao aims to become a global leader in smart logistics solutions.
Examples of statuses which Cainiao shipment tracking passes
| Statuses |
| A new delivery attempt is ongoing |
| A new delivery attempt is ongoing (Delivery again) |
| Accepted for Linehaul transportation (Received by Linehaul) |
| Accepted for transportation by Post (Package Received) |
| Accepted for transportation by Post (Post office collection) |
| Accepted for transportation by Post (Post office collection.) |
| Accepted for transportation by postal service |
| Accepted for transportation by postal service (Package Received) |
| Accepted for transportation by postal service (Post office collection) |
| Accepted for transportation by postal service (Post office collection.) |
| Arrival at local delivery center unsuccessful (Arrival at local delivery center unsuccessful) |
| Arrival at local delivery center unsuccessful (Failed to arrive the delivery office) |
| Arrived at destination country/region sorting center (In distribution with postman) |
| Arrived at destination country/region sorting center (【Riyadh Center】Received.) |
| Arrived at local delivery center (Arrived at Post Office) |
| Arrived at local delivery center (Arrived at local delivery center) |
| Arrived in transit country/region (AE_LZD_ORDER) |
| Arrived in transit country/region (Airline arrived at transit country or district) |
| Arrived in transit country/region (Airline arrived at transit country or district.) |
| Arrived in transit country/region (Arrive at transit country or district) |
| Arrived in transit country/region (Arrive attransit country or district.) |
| Arrived in transit country/region (In transit) |
| Arrived in transit country/region (Parcel is handled) |
| Arrived in transit country/region (Transit Arrival) |
| Arrived in transit country/region (transit country arrival) |
| At consolidation warehouse (Accepted in consolidated warehouse.) |
| At consolidation warehouse (Inbound success in consolidated warehouse.) |
| At departure country sorting center (Received by sorting center) |
| At departure country/region sorting center (Shipment Reached Center) |
| At destination country sorting center (At destination country/region sorting center) |
| At destination country/region |
| At destination country/region (Linehaul handover to next forwarder) |
| At destination country/region (Transiting via the transit Airport) |
| At destination country/region sorting center |
| At destination country/region sorting center (Arrive at sorting center in destination country) |
| At destination country/region sorting center (Arrived at destination country) |
| At destination country/region sorting center (At destination country/region sorting center) |
| At destination country/region sorting center (Consignment received at the PostNL Acceptance Centre) |
| At destination country/region sorting center (In distribution with postman) |
| At destination country/region sorting center (Received at HUB) |
| At destination country/region sorting center (Yangjiang city ,【Riyadh Center】 item collected , The postman :ZhangShiChe) |
| At destination country/region sorting center (【Riyadh Center】Arrived.) |