How to Set Up Pre-Orders for Your Online Store Products

How to Set Up Pre-Orders for Your Online Store Products

By Michael Thompson

February 17, 2025 at 10:16 AM

Product pre-orders are an effective way to manage out-of-stock items and gauge customer interest before stocking inventory. Here's how to set them up properly:

Setting Up Pre-Orders

  1. Add the product normally to your store
  2. Set stock levels higher than zero to allow purchases
  3. Include clear pre-order details in the product description:
    • Expected shipping date
    • Terms and policies
    • Order cancellation information
    • Return policy details

Customizing the Pre-Order Button

  1. Navigate to the product editor's Checkout section
  2. Click "Custom Button"
  3. Enable custom label
  4. Change text to "Pre-Order"
  5. Apply changes to all pre-order products

Black leather tote

Black leather tote

Managing Pre-Orders

  • Enable product waitlists to notify customers when items are back in stock
  • Fulfill orders through the Orders panel once inventory arrives
  • Keep customers informed about order status and shipping updates

Best Practices

  1. Create blog content about the production process
  2. Maintain regular communication with pre-order customers
  3. Use promotional tools like pop-ups or announcement bars
  4. Set realistic stock levels based on anticipated demand
  5. Clearly communicate shipping timelines

Additional Features

  • Product waitlists for out-of-stock items
  • Shipping rate configuration
  • Mailing list integration
  • Announcement bar implementation
  • Navigation dropdown customization

Remember to maintain transparent communication with customers throughout the pre-order process and provide regular updates about production and shipping timelines.

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