How to order a CityCoco on AliExpress or Alibaba

AliExpress and Alibaba are the primary sources for CityCoco scooters (also known as fat tyres or fat wheel electric scooters). However, purchasing an expensive and complex product on either site can be a minefield. We'll guide you through how to do to secure the best results.

AliExpress or Alibaba?
AliExpress! AliExpress is more consumer-orientated, whilst Alibaba is aimed at businesses purchasing large orders. Prices are cheaper on Alibaba. However, you typically deal directly with the factory, and many are uninterested in single orders. Ordering is also done through a discussion with the seller rather than being automated. You also have more limited buyer protections. Whilst you can save some money, we would not recommend it unless you are experienced in this area or willing to take a risk.

How to choose an item and seller on AliExpress?
Generally, you are least likely to have issues with sellers that do the largest volumes of orders for CityCoco scooters. You can see how many items they have sold in the listing and the average reviews. 

Common Surprises:

Tax
Unless they say otherwise, you will be liable for tax on the importation of the scooter. For the UK, depending on where it comes from, this will probably be a minimum of VAT at 20% of the item value and possibly an additional import tax, depending on where the item is coming from. The delivery company will also probably charge you a fee for being stopped at customs and paying them. 

Shipping Times
Unless they say otherwise, the scooter will be shipped from China, which will take several weeks to arrive! You may be able to find sellers with stock closer to you, which will lead to quicker delivery.

Battery
It is standard practice to mark (and sell) the battery with a higher capacity than it actually has. You can try telling the seller when you order that you will be testing the battery on arrival, although they might just cancel your order. We have an article on how to detect this battery scam here.

Motor
Again it is pretty standard practice to make up the motor power figures. There is less you can do about this other than be aware of it when ordering it.

Alternatively, you can use us at fatwheelscoot.com. We are based in the UK, offer a 30-day no-questions asked returns policy and will provide help and support with your new scooter. Our prices are similar to AliExpress and Alibaba too!