The Conditional Shipping for WooCommerce plugin offers two powerful features related to user accounts: Require User IDs and Exclude User IDs. This article explores both options, empowering you to create a targeted and controlled shipping experience within your store.
Understanding User IDs
Each user registered on your WooCommerce store has a unique identifier called a User ID. You can find these IDs within the WordPress user management area.
Using Require User IDs
- Enable Condition: By checking the box next to “Enable condition” for Flat Rate, Free Shipping, and Local Pickup methods, you’ve activated the “Require User IDs” condition for these methods.
- Specifying User IDs: This means that only these specific users will see the chosen shipping methods (Flat Rate, Free Shipping, Local Pickup) during checkout.
Impact on Customers
- Other customers (those who are not listed by User ID) won’t see the Flat Rate, Free Shipping, or Local Pickup options at checkout. This effectively restricts these shipping methods to the designated users.
Potential Use Cases
- Rewarding Loyal Customers: You might be offering these users exclusive shipping benefits as a token of appreciation for their continued business.
- Special Promotions: Perhaps you’re running a limited-time promotion with free shipping for these specific customers.
Important Considerations
- Scalability: Manually entering numerous User IDs can be tedious for a large number of users. Consider the Conditional Shipping Pro version (if applicable) for bulk import options.
- Data Accuracy: Ensure the User IDs you’ve entered are correct to avoid unintended consequences. An incorrect ID might exclude a user you intended to include.
Understanding Exclude User IDs
- Enable Condition: This option, currently disabled in your example, allows you to restrict specific users from seeing certain shipping methods.
- Specifying User IDs: Similar to “Require User IDs,” you would list the User IDs of customers you want to exclude.
- Impact on Customers: The listed users would have access to all other shipping methods except those you’ve selected (Flat Rate, Free Shipping, Local Pickup in your example).
Potential Use Cases
- Excluding Promotional Shipping: You might have a free shipping promotion tied to a specific user role (e.g., “Gold Member”). By excluding these User IDs (who already have the benefit), you can ensure the promotion only applies to intended customers.
- Limiting Shipping Options: If you offer a “Local Pickup” option but have limited resources, you can exclude specific users (e.g., those located far away) from seeing this option to prioritize local customers.
Choosing the Right Option
- Use “Require User IDs” to grant specific users access to exclusive shipping benefits.
- Use “Exclude User IDs” to restrict specific users from seeing certain shipping methods.
By strategically using these User ID functionalities, you can create a targeted and controlled shipping experience within your WooCommerce store. Remember to explore the Conditional Shipping Pro version for extended features if managing a large number of user IDs.