When you want to improve the conversion rates on your eCommerce websites, every bit of benefit to the customers count. One effective strategy is to offer free shipping. However, many Shopify store owners find the process of setting up free shipping to be complex and time-consuming.
But don’t worry. Through this blog, I’ll elaborate on how the Shopify experts go about setting up the free shipping and ensuring the best customer experience. Let’s begin with what to consider beforehand.
What to Consider When Offering Free Shipping on Shopify?
Before even setting up the free shipping, there are a few key factors to consider. Let’s discuss them.
- Calculate your average order value (AOV): Determine how much you typically make per order.
- Assess your profit margin: Factor in product costs, shipping costs, and other operational expenses.
- Evaluate the impact of free shipping on your bottom line: Consider whether you can absorb the shipping costs or if you need to adjust pricing.
- Consider the psychology of free shipping: Research how it can influence purchasing decisions and customer loyalty.
- Balance free shipping with other incentives: Determine if offering free shipping is more effective than other promotions, such as discounts or loyalty programs.
- Implement minimum order value: Require customers to meet a certain spending threshold to qualify for free shipping.
After careful consideration of factors, you can go about setting up free shipping on Shopify.
How to Add Free Shipping on Shopify?
Free shipping can significantly boost your online sales. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to add it to your Shopify store:
Step 1: Log into your Shopify admin panel.
Step 2: Navigate to Settings > Shipping and delivery.
Step 3: Open Manage rates and then click ‘Add rate’.
Step 4: Configure the free shipping rates with following settings:
- Rate Name: Give your rate a clear name like “Free Shipping.”
- Price: Set the price to 0.
- Handling Fee: Set the handling fee to 0.
- Minimum Order Weight: Set the minimum order weight to 0 (or a specific value if desired).
- Maximum Order Weight: Leave this blank for no limit.
- Price Based on: Choose “Order total” or “Weight-based pricing” as needed.
Step 5: Select the shipping zones where this free shipping rate should apply.
Step 6: Click “Save” to finalize your free shipping rate.
An optional setting involves setting conditions. If you want to offer free shipping above a certain order value, set a minimum order total.
To ensure the best features and functionalities like free shipping and more, consult with our Shopify development company.
Advanced Tips for Optimizing Shipping
While offering free shipping can significantly boost sales, it’s crucial to optimize your shipping strategy to maximize profits and customer satisfaction. Here are some advanced tips:
- Real-time Carrier Rates: Integrate real-time carrier rates into your checkout process. This allows customers to see accurate shipping costs based on their location and order details. Consider using apps like AfterShip or ShipStation to streamline this process.
- Shipping Discounts and Promotions: Offer shipping discounts or promotions to incentivize purchases. Create time-limited offers or bundle deals to encourage larger orders.
- Optimized Packaging: Optimize the eCommerce packaging by minimizing the materials to reduce shipping costs and using eco-friendly options. That will appeal to environmentally conscious customers.
- Efficient Order Fulfillment: Implement efficient eCommerce fulfillment workflows. Use a reliable order management system to track orders and shipments.
- Shipping Tracking and Notifications: Provide customers with real-time shipping tracking information. Send automated shipping notifications to keep customers informed.
- International Shipping: If you ship internationally, consider using a shipping rate calculator to determine accurate shipping costs. Be aware of customs duties and taxes and clearly communicate these costs to customers.
- Return Policy: Have a clear and customer-friendly return policy. Offer free returns to encourage purchases and build customer loyalty.
The aim of offering free shipping to the customers is to reduce cart abandonment and maximize the conversion rates. If you need help with that, get our professional eCommerce development services.
FAQs on Free Shipping on Shopify
Q1. How does free shipping impact my profit margin?
While free shipping can boost sales, it’s essential to assess its impact on your profit margin. Consider factors like increased order value, reduced cart abandonment, and potential cost savings from bulk shipping deals.
Q2. Can I offer free shipping on specific products or orders?
Yes, you can set specific conditions for free shipping, such as minimum order value, product categories, or specific product codes. This allows you to strategically offer free shipping to optimize your profit margins.
Q3. Can I offer free shipping internationally?
Yes, you can offer free shipping to international customers. However, you’ll need to consider factors like customs duties, taxes, and international shipping rates. It’s recommended to use a reliable international shipping carrier and clearly communicate any additional costs to customers.
Let’s Summarize the Free Shipping
Offering free shipping can significantly boost your Shopify store’s sales and customer satisfaction. But before setting up the free shipping, carefully consider your profit margins, customer preferences, and shipping costs before making a decision.
Additionally, explore advanced techniques such as real-time carrier rates, shipping discounts, and optimized packaging to further refine your approach.
If you need help with setting up free shipping and other UX-friendly features on your Shopify store, connect with us today!
Share this story, choose your platform!
John Niles, a dedicated Technical Consultant at BrainSpate since 2023, specializes in eCommerce. With a global perspective, he crafts insightful content on cutting-edge web development technologies, enriching the digital commerce landscape.
