CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Temu and Shein are overseas budget brands known for low-priced clothing and vast selection.
Combined, the companies ship around 9,000 tons of cargo worldwide every day.
The high demand is making both Shein and Temu money, but it may be at the cost of everyone else.
Forbes reports that higher demand for fast fashion pushing the rates of air cargo shipping sky high. In fact, the prices are some of the highest since the end of 2023.
The impact doesn't just impact air cargo prices. Forbes explains Temu has started up new sea and air routes using Taiwan, Japan and Korea to get products into the U.S. which is another move sending those shipping rates even higher.
WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to WCNC Charlotte by emailing money@wcnc.com.
The move, however, could save shoppers.
For now, Shein and Temu provide free shipping for orders over a certain amount which makes it seem like the companies are willing to absorb the higher costs to keep the accelerated growth in the U.S.
The companies' business model relies on getting goods out as quickly as possible, so if it can't keep up with demand, it may lose its competitive edge.
WCNC Charlotte's Where's The Money series is all about leveling the playing field in the Carolinas by helping others and breaking down barriers. WCNC Charlotte doesn't want our viewers to be taken advantage of, so we’re here to help. Watch previous stories where we ask the question “Where’s the Money” in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded.
WCNC Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with the team at WCNC Charlotte.
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Pandora || TuneIn || Google Podcasts || iHeart
All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.