With the rapid development of e-commerce and the increasing demand for global shopping, purchasing agent platforms and traditional e-commerce platforms have become integral parts of modern consumer life. This study aims to investigate and compare the timeliness and accuracy of logistics delivery in these two types of platforms.

1. Introduction

Purchasing agent platforms and e-commerce shopping platforms have distinct operational models. Purchasing agent platforms typically act as intermediaries, facilitating the purchase of goods from international markets, while e-commerce platforms often operate as direct sellers or marketplaces. The performance of logistics services, particularly in terms of timeliness and accuracy, plays a crucial role in customer satisfaction and loyalty.

2. Methodology

The study was conducted by analyzing customer reviews, delivery tracking data, and performance metrics from three leading purchasing agent platforms and three prominent e-commerce platforms. Data was collected over a six-month period, focusing on the delivery time, package condition upon arrival, and accuracy of order fulfillment.

3. Findings

3.1 Timeliness

E-commerce platforms generally outperformed purchasing agent platforms in terms of delivery timeliness. On average, e-commerce platforms delivered packages within 2-4 days domestically and 7-10 days internationally. In contrast, purchasing agent platforms took 10-15 days for international deliveries, with additional delays due to customs processing.

3.2 Accuracy

Both platforms demonstrated high levels of order accuracy. However, e-commerce platforms reported a lower rate of errors, with 97% of orders delivered correctly. Purchasing agent platforms had a slightly higher error rate of 92%, often attributed to miscommunications or misunderstandings between the agent and the seller.

4. Discussion

The disparity in timeliness can be attributed to the logistical complexities inherent in purchasing agent platforms, including international shipping and customs clearance. E-commerce platforms, benefiting from established domestic and international logistics networks, can offer more streamlined and efficient delivery services. Both platforms showed a strong commitment to accuracy, though e-commerce platforms had a slight edge due to direct control over inventory and order processing.

5. Conclusion

While purchasing agent platforms provide valuable access to international markets, they lag behind e-commerce platforms in delivery timeliness. Both platforms, however, maintain high levels of accuracy in order fulfillment. Future research could explore strategies for improving logistics efficiency in purchasing agent platforms without compromising cost-effectiveness.