The Alibaba Group’s logistics arm, Cainiao Network, says it has enhanced e-commerce supplier Lazada’s cross-border logistics efficiency by 50%, thanks to the launch of various logistics facilities to support local export SMEs. Using the accelerated logistics channel, customers in Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines are now able to receive parcels in as little as three days after placing an order on Lazada’s e-commerce platform.
This was achieved, says Cainiao, with the launch of distribution centers in China’s export-focused cities of Yiwu, Shenzhen and Quanzhou, offering doorstep pickup, distribution, and cross-border shipping services to support merchants’ needs.
Prior to this development, merchants had to deliver the goods to warehouses on their own, which involved time-consuming activities such as queuing and scanning products. It claims the process will help merchants to save up to 10 hours for the first-mile delivery, and avoid up to three days of delay during peak shopping seasons such as Double 11.
“Today, consumers have greater expectations when it comes to logistics efficiency, especially for trendy products popularized by social media and influencers,” said Shawn Louis, executive general manager for Cainiao and chief logistics officer at LazGlobal. “This year, we have commenced trial operations for cross-border express delivery services in Southeast Asia, with a focus on Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Malaysia, to enable consumers to receive their parcels in as fast as three days. We believe that efficient and comprehensive logistics network is key to facilitating global trade and supporting small businesses and online merchants to tap on a booming Southeast Asian market.”