Who Bears Tail in Shein Semi- Mode?

Who Should Bear the Cost of Last-Mile Delivery in SHEIN's Semi-Managed Logistics?

In the field of cross-border e-commerce, SHEIN, as a rapidly developing international e-commerce platform, has always been under close scrutiny for its operational model. Recently, there has been heated discussion about SHEIN's semi-managed logistics model in cross-border trade and the related last-mile delivery cost issues. In particular, the allocation of freight costs directly affects the rights and interests distribution among merchants, platforms, and consumers. So, in SHEIN's semi-managed model, who should bear the cost of last-mile delivery?

Firstly, we need to clarify what a semi-managed model is. The term semi-managed refers to a situation where merchants deliver goods to the platform, which then takes charge of subsequent storage and delivery processes. However, unlike full management, merchants need to handle some logistics stages themselves under the semi-managed model, such as transporting goods to overseas warehouses. On the other hand, last-mile transportation, which covers the final leg from the overseas warehouse to the consumer’s hands, is handled by the platform.

Theoretically, the cost of last-mile delivery should be borne by the platform since it is part of the platform's service. However, in practical operations, the apportionment of these costs often depends on specific contract terms and service agreements. For instance, in certain cases, the platform might pass this cost onto merchants or indirectly affect merchants' benefits through other means.

Recently, media reports have indicated that some merchants using SHEIN's semi-managed services have found their expenses for last-mile delivery exceeding expectations. This phenomenon has drawn significant attention from the industry. Industry insiders have analyzed that this situation may stem from several factors

Firstly, logistics market prices fluctuate significantly. With global supply chain changes, international courier fees often experience substantial increases. For platforms relying on third-party logistics providers, such changes inevitably impact the final cost calculation.

Secondly, platform policies are frequently adjusted. To respond to market changes or enhance competitiveness, platforms might periodically modify relevant rules, including freight calculation standards and service scopes. While this flexibility helps optimize business processes, it also increases uncertainty for merchants.

Thirdly, merchants lack sufficient understanding of policies. Due to the complexity and diversity of laws and regulations involving cross-border e-commerce across multiple countries and regions, many merchants fail to keep up with the latest policy developments, leading to disputes during cost settlements.

In light of these issues, all parties are seeking solutions. On one hand, platforms need to strengthen transparency management, ensuring all fee items are clear and transparent, and promptly inform merchants of any potential price changes. On the other hand, merchants should actively learn about relevant policies and regulations, reasonably assess risks, and seek help from professional consulting institutions when necessary.

Relevant departments can also play an active role by issuing corresponding guidelines to regulate industry behavior and maintain a fair competitive environment. At the same time, they can encourage closer cooperation between enterprises to jointly explore effective ways to reduce costs.

In conclusion, properly addressing the issue of last-mile delivery costs is crucial not only for the long-term development of businesses but also for safeguarding consumer rights. Only through joint efforts can all parties achieve mutual benefits. Looking ahead, with technological advancements and accumulated experience, we have reason to believe that similar problems will be effectively alleviated, laying a solid foundation for the healthy development of the entire industry.