Cross-border e-commerce sellers facing high overseas warehousing costs and unpredictable logistics timelines may find relief through Temu's newly adjusted semi-managed model for the US market. Starting April 27, the platform will enable sellers to ship products directly from China to American consumers under a "long-duration shipping" option, offering more flexible and cost-effective logistics solutions.
Expanded Participation
The policy adjustment applies to both existing fully-managed sellers and semi-managed sellers, significantly broadening eligibility. This allows merchants to select optimal logistics methods based on product characteristics and operational strategies, potentially improving supply chain efficiency.
Store Allocation Policy
Temu's current store policy permits each entity to operate:
- 1 fully-managed store
- 3 semi-managed stores
The platform is gradually rolling out this policy through phased testing. Eligible sellers below the store limit can register via "Account Management - Add New Store" by entering invitation codes.
Revised Shipping Timelines
The US semi-managed model introduces key changes to fulfillment windows:
- Preparation time extends from 2 business days to include a 9-business-day option
- Standard fulfillment remains at 5 business days
- Maximum delivery period extends to 14 business days
This extended timeline particularly benefits sellers of long-tail and customized products by reducing inventory pressure.
Logistics Optimization
The updated model implements standardized virtual warehouse processes for last-mile delivery:
- Mandatory use of online shipping labels
- Requirement for rapid US-bound transportation
- Online label generation at US seller warehouses
This approach aims to enhance final delivery efficiency while lowering logistics costs.
Compliance Considerations
Sellers selecting the 9-business-day shipping template will have stores marked as "CN Shipping Stores," exempting them from platform penalties related to China-based fulfillment. Temu will simultaneously verify sellers' customs clearance capabilities to ensure regulatory compliance.
The policy changes represent a strategic move by Temu to strengthen its US market position through improved logistics flexibility and cost reduction. Cross-border sellers may benefit from reevaluating their operational approaches to capitalize on these adjustments.