When deciding between Alibaba and Aliexpress for your first stock order, there are a few factors to consider. While Alibaba is generally known for wholesale purchases and Aliexpress for retail, the current shipping fees and pricing differences may make Aliexpress seem more appealing. However, it's important to evaluate the long-term implications before making a decision.

1. Pricing: Aliexpress often offers lower prices for small quantities, making it attractive for initial orders. However, keep in mind that these prices may not be sustainable for bulk orders. Alibaba, on the other hand, allows you to negotiate prices directly with suppliers, potentially resulting in better long-term pricing for larger quantities.

2. Product Quality: Aliexpress suppliers cater to retail customers, while Alibaba suppliers primarily focus on wholesale buyers. Consequently, Alibaba suppliers are generally more experienced in producing higher quality products. If you plan to build a brand or sell products with consistent quality, Alibaba may be a better option.

3. Supplier Communication and Support: Aliexpress provides a platform for direct communication with suppliers, which can be convenient for small orders. However, Alibaba offers additional tools and features for effective communication, such as trade assurance, supplier verification, and dedicated account managers. These features can be valuable when establishing a long-term relationship with a supplier.

4. Customization and Private Labeling: If you intend to customize your products or apply your own branding, Alibaba is often a better choice. Suppliers on Alibaba are more accustomed to handling customization requests and private labeling, allowing for greater flexibility in product design and packaging.

5. Shipping and Logistics: While shipping fees may currently be more expensive from Alibaba due to global circumstances, it's important to consider the long-term outlook. Shipping costs can fluctuate, and if you plan to scale your business, Alibaba's bulk shipping options may become more cost-effective in the future.

In conclusion, while Aliexpress may offer cheaper prices and lower shipping fees in the short term, Alibaba provides advantages in terms of pricing negotiation, product quality, customization, and long-term support. Consider your business goals, scalability, and the importance of product quality and customization before making a decision. It may be worth ordering samples from Alibaba to assess the quality and build relationships with potential suppliers, even if the bulk order seems cheaper on Aliexpress initially.