Manual Order Creation
Definition
Manual order creation refers to the process where store admins create customer orders directly from the WooCommerce dashboard instead of waiting for customers to place them themselves.
Good or Bad?
Good, when used to handle phone or offline orders, B2B requests, or customer service needs.
Bad, if overused or not tracked properly, as it can mess with reporting or stock management.
Why does it matter?
It gives store owners flexibility.
You can help customers who call in, place wholesale orders, or need quick adjustments without going through the frontend.
Common Mistakes
- Forgetting to send order confirmation emails manually
- Not adjusting inventory when adding products
- Leaving orders in pending or draft status without follow-up
How to Improve It
- Use detailed customer notes to track communication
- Train your staff on the correct process for creating and completing orders
- Ensure tax, shipping, and payment details are correctly applied
Real-World Example
A wholesale customer calls to reorder their usual items.
Instead of sending them to the website, the store owner logs into the dashboard, creates a manual order with the products and applies a custom discount.
Related Terms
- Order Management
- B2B Orders
- Wholesale Order Handling
- Draft Orders
- Phone Orders
FAQs
Why would I need to create an order manually?
To help customers who prefer phone or email, or for wholesale and bulk requests.
Does WooCommerce support manual order creation by default?
Yes, but it’s limited. Plugins can make the process easier.
Can I apply discounts to manual orders?
Yes, you can adjust product prices or add coupons manually.
