A scaling analysis is performed to study transport phenomena in the supercritical fluid extraction process. Two typical systems, one solid-fluid and one liquid-fluid, are investigated. Characteristic velocities and time scales of each transport process are determined by force balances. The dominant driving Force in each existing phase and the rate-determining factor of the entire system are identified. Enhancements of practical applications towards more energy efficient operations are suggested. For situations with insufficient solute transport, different methods of improvement are discussed.