6 Taobao Hacks Every Diehard Shoppaholic Should Know

The best tips and tricks to help you get your desired purchases right to your doorstep

You want it, they've got it.

We're talking about Taobao, China's biggest consumer-to-consumer e-commerce site, also known as a true blue shopping haven for those in the know.

Whether you're looking for Kinfolk-worthy furniture to fill your new home with, the latest electronics, or the latest styles inspired by the runway, you're likely to find them from one of the many sellers on the platform.

To help you ease into your first buy, here are some useful tips and tricks:

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5. Know how much you’re paying

When it comes to transactions, Taobao’s main currency is Chinese Yuan (RMB), with Alipay (consider it as China’s PayPal) being the main form of payment channel. Users may also pay via online banking or by means of a money recharge slip for your Taobao account from a post office in China. Apart from item cost and shipping fee, other fees like insurance, shipping of sensitive items, additional payment fees and commissions may also be incurred. If you’re using a Taobao agent, know that each agent changes differently — some may use a higher exchange rate in order to earn from the excess, whereas other can charge a flat fee or a percentage of your total purchase.

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Shop Taobao here.