Pre-Orders in WooCommerce
Definition
Pre-orders allow customers to purchase products before they are officially released or back in stock.
Customers can pay immediately or when the product becomes available.
Good or Bad?
Good?
- Creates early demand and anticipation
- Helps forecast inventory needs
- Improves cash flow for made-to-order items
Bad?
- Delays in fulfillment can lead to customer complaints
- Requires clear communication and expectations
- Risk of cancellations if release dates are missed
Why does it matter?
Pre-orders are an effective strategy for building hype and testing market interest before committing to full production.
They help you collect sales before inventory arrives and reduce the risk of overstock.
In some industries like fashion or tech, they are essential for limited drops or seasonal collections.
Common Mistakes
- Not displaying expected delivery dates clearly
- Failing to update customers about delays
- Accepting pre-orders for out-of-stock items without control
How to Improve It?
- Send automated email updates about the release schedule
- Set a maximum quantity for pre-orders to avoid over-promising
- Combine pre-orders with early bird discounts or bonuses
Recommended Plugin
An efficient system that easily translates to the specific needs of the store, the plugin allows you to follow up on pre-sales in a comprehensive way.
Real-World Example
A handmade skincare brand launched a limited-edition product through pre-orders two weeks before production.
They covered 80% of costs from pre-order sales and sold out before the batch was even made.
Related Terms
- Backorders
- Coming Soon Products
- Inventory Forecasting
- Product Launch Strategy
FAQs
Can I accept partial payments for pre-orders?
Only if your plugin or payment gateway supports split payments. Most default setups require full or delayed full payment.
Can customers cancel pre-orders?
That depends on your store policy. Make sure your cancellation terms are clear.
Will the product switch to regular sale automatically?
Yes, with some pre-order plugins, you can set a date for the status change.
