Introduction
In the rapidly evolving world of e-commerce, a business needs to constantly innovate and utilize effective strategies to stay ahead. One such powerful strategy is the use of pre-orders, a system that allows customers to reserve a product before it is officially released or back in stock. This process is mutually beneficial for both the business and the consumer. For businesses, it ensures an early influx of revenue, allows for better inventory management, and provides a clear gauge of the product’s demand. For consumers, pre-orders provide an opportunity to be the first to own a product, often with added benefits or discounts, which can enhance their overall shopping experience.
Shopify, a leading global e-commerce platform, makes the pre-ordering process even simpler for online businesses. Serving as a comprehensive solution for online retailers, Shopify allows businesses to create an online store, manage products, handle payments, and even cater to specific needs like pre-orders.
This is where Shopify’s pre-order apps come into play. These applications integrate with your Shopify store and automate the process of managing pre-orders. They replace the standard ‘Out of Stock’ or ‘Coming Soon’ button with a ‘Pre-order Now’ button, allowing businesses to sell products even when they are not currently available. These apps also often come with additional features such as pre-order analytics, customizable buttons, and automated emailing, making them instrumental in conducting successful pre-order campaigns. In the following sections, we will explore the top 8 best Shopify pre order apps, examining their features, pricing, and suitability for different types of businesses.
Table of Contents
Comparison Table
| Shopify App | Key Features | Pros | Cons | Pricing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-order Now | Automated pre-order management, customizable pre-order button, and multi-channel integration | Easy to use, supports multi-channel sales | Limited customization options | Subscription-based, free trial available | Businesses of all sizes, especially those with multi-channel sales |
| Advanced PreOrder (Partial Pay) | Partial payment for pre-orders, automatic email notifications, and stock visibility control | Flexible payment options, enhances customer experience | Not as intuitive for beginners | Subscription-based, free trial available | Businesses looking for a more flexible pre-order payment system |
| Pre-order Manager | Automated pre-order activation, customizable buttons and messages, and detailed analytics | Robust analytics, user-friendly interface | Limited features in the free version | Free version available, premium plan for advanced features | Businesses that value detailed pre-order analytics |
| Pre‑order Alpha | Automated pre-order management, customizable pre-order button, and quantity limit for pre-orders | Customizable, allows quantity limits | Basic interface, advanced features only in higher-priced tiers | Tiered pricing model, free trial available | Businesses of all sizes seeking a customizable solution |
| Globo Pre-Order | Auto pre-order replacement, stock & date scheduling, customizable buttons and messages | Scheduling options, customizable buttons | Complex for beginners, relatively higher pricing for small businesses | Tiered pricing model, free trial available | Businesses with regular inventory changes or planned product launches |
| Pre-order Autopilot | Automated pre-order activation, product-level and variant-level pre-orders, email notifications | Automated features, email notifications | Complex setup, advanced features only in higher-priced tiers | Tiered pricing model, free trial available | Businesses with frequent inventory changes seeking automation |
| PreOrder Me | Pre-order button configuration, customizable button and popup, "Coming Soon" page, email notifications | User-friendly, "Coming Soon page feature | Lacks advanced features like analytics, no free version beyond the trial period | Flat monthly pricing model, free trial available | Small to medium-sized businesses regularly launching new products |
| Crowdfunder Preorder | Crowdfunding-style pre-orders, goal setting and tracking, customizable campaign pages, real-time campaign updates | Unique concept, goal setting and tracking capabilities | Not suitable for traditional pre-order needs, complex setup | Subscription-based, free trial available | Businesses regularly launching new products, seeking a different approach to pre-orders |
Benefits of Using Pre-Order Apps on Shopify
Enhanced Customer Experience
One of the main advantages of using best shopify pre order apps is the enhanced customer experience they provide. Instead of viewing an “Out of Stock” message and potentially leaving your store to look for the product elsewhere, customers have the option to pre-order and secure the item they desire. This creates a positive shopping experience as customers feel they’ve gained something rather than missing out. Furthermore, some pre-order apps allow customization of the pre-order button and messages, enabling you to maintain brand consistency and communicate effectively with customers about their pre-order status.
Efficient Inventory Management
Efficient inventory management is crucial in e-commerce, and pre-order apps can greatly aid in this aspect. By allowing customers to pre-order out-of-stock items, you can gauge demand for specific products before restocking. This not only reduces the risk of overstocking but also ensures that popular products are adequately stocked to meet customer demand. Additionally, pre-orders can help generate revenue to fund the production or acquisition of more inventory, further reducing financial risk.
Potential for Increased Sales and Revenue
Pre-order apps also offer the potential for increased sales and revenue. By allowing customers to order products even when they’re not immediately available, you ensure that you don’t lose sales due to temporary out-of-stock situations. Furthermore, the anticipation created by pre-orders can also drive additional sales. Customers who might not have been planning to buy immediately could be enticed to place a pre-order to secure the product, especially in the case of limited edition or high-demand items. Thus, pre-order apps can contribute significantly to increasing your store’s overall sales and revenue.
Key Considerations when Choosing a Shopify Pre-Order App
Ease of Integration and User-friendliness
The first thing to consider when choosing a pre-order app for your Shopify store is how easy it is to integrate and use. Look for an app that can seamlessly blend with your online store and doesn’t require extensive technical knowledge to operate. User-friendly apps not only save time but also make it easier for you to focus on other aspects of your business.
Customizability to Align with Your Brand
The ability to customize the pre-order app is another important consideration. The app should be able to match your brand’s aesthetics, tone, and message. For example, if you wish to change the color, text, or location of the pre-order button, the app should allow you to do so. This ensures a consistent customer experience across your online store.
Cost-effectiveness and Pricing Structure
You should also consider the cost and pricing structure of the pre-order app. Some apps offer a flat monthly rate, while others may charge based on the number of pre-orders processed. Make sure to choose an app that offers the features you need at a price that fits your budget. Additionally, consider whether the potential increase in revenue from using the app justifies its cost.
Availability and Responsiveness of Customer Support
Lastly, consider the availability and responsiveness of the app’s customer support. A reliable support team can help resolve any issues you may encounter with the app, ensuring that your pre-order system runs smoothly. Check for reviews or testimonials from other users to gauge the quality of the app’s customer support.
Remember, the best pre-order app for your Shopify store will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. Take the time to consider your requirements and review the various options available to find the app that best suits your business.
Deep Dive into the 8 Best Shopify Pre-Order Apps
Pre-order Now
Overview:
Pre-order Now is one of the most recognized pre-order apps available for Shopify. It is designed to efficiently replace the standard “Out of Stock” button on Shopify product pages with a “Pre-order Now” button whenever inventory runs out. This enables online retailers to continue selling products, even when they are temporarily out-of-stock.
Key Features:
- Badge customization: This feature allows businesses to tailor the pre-order button, aligning it with their brand’s aesthetics.
- Tag-based pre-orders: Retailers can automate pre-orders based on product tags, facilitating efficient management of multiple products.
- Mixed cart warning: This feature alerts customers when they have both pre-order and in-stock items in the same cart to avoid confusion at checkout.
- Automatic pre-order switch: This feature allows the “Pre-order Now” button to appear automatically when a product runs out of stock and switch back to the “Buy Now” button when the product is restocked.
Pricing:
- Free to Install
- Premium Plans: Starting from $19.95/month
Best for:
Pre-order Now is best for businesses of all sizes looking for a simple and efficient solution to manage pre-orders. Its customization options make it suitable for any business that values brand consistency on its website.
Pros
- Easy to install and use.
- Customizable pre-order button.
- Allows mixed carts (pre-order and in-stock items can be purchased together).
- Excellent customer support.
Cons
- The flat rate pricing model might be cost-prohibitive for small businesses.
- Lacks advanced analytics apps
Advanced PreOrder (Partial Pay)
Overview:
Advanced PreOrder (Partial Pay) offers a unique solution for Shopify businesses. As the name suggests, this app allows customers to make a partial payment to reserve an item, which can be particularly useful for high-value items or those with a longer lead time.
Key Features:
- Partial Payments: This feature allows customers to pay a portion of the price upfront to secure a pre-order. The remaining balance can be paid at a later date, closer to the item’s availability.
- Flexible Configurations: With Advanced PreOrder, retailers can choose which products are available for pre-order and customize the pre-order settings for each product.
- Automated Email Reminders: The app can send automatic email reminders to customers about their pending balance, ensuring timely payment and fulfillment.
Pricing:
- Free to Install
- Premium Plans: Starting from $3.99/month
Best for:
Advanced PreOrder (Partial Pay) is best suited for businesses selling high-value or luxury items, or businesses with products that have a longer lead time. The partial payment feature can make these items more accessible to customers and can help secure sales in advance.
Pros
- Partial payment feature improves accessibility for customers.
- Flexible configurations allow for tailored pre-order strategies.
- Automated email reminders help ensure timely fulfillment.
Cons
- The interface may be a bit complex for beginners.
- Higher tier pricing could be a barrier for small businesses.
Pre-order Manager
Overview:
Pre-order Manager is a powerful Shopify app that allows online stores to manage pre-orders effectively. Its robust and flexible feature set allows it to cater to a wide range of pre-order needs, making it a popular choice among many Shopify store owners.
Key Features:
- Flexible Pre-order Settings: This feature allows store owners to set specific products or variants as available for pre-order, providing a high level of control.
- Pre-order Limits: Retailers can set a maximum limit for pre-orders on specific products, ensuring manageable order volumes.
- Scheduled Pre-orders: This feature enables scheduling of pre-orders for future product releases, useful for planned product launches or restocks.
- Customizable Pre-order Button and Messages: Store owners can modify the appearance and text of pre-order buttons and messages to maintain brand consistency.
Pricing:
- Premium Plans: Starting from $24.95/month
Best for:
Pre-order Manager is suitable for businesses of all sizes, especially those that plan regular product launches or have varying pre-order needs. Its flexibility and control make it a solid choice for businesses that require a tailored pre-order strategy.
Pros
- Provides a high level of control over pre-orders.
- Supports scheduling of pre-orders.
- Allows customization of pre-order buttons and messages.
Cons
- Might be complex to set up for beginners.
- Advanced features come at higher pricing tiers.
Pre‑order Alpha
Overview:
Pre-order Alpha is a popular app on Shopify that provides businesses with a comprehensive solution for managing pre-orders. Known for its user-friendly interface and powerful features, it simplifies the process of managing pre-orders on your Shopify store.
Key Features:
- Automated Pre-order Management: The app automatically replaces the “Add to Cart” button with a “Pre-order” button when items run out of stock.
- Customizable Pre-order Button: Businesses can change the color, text, and style of the pre-order button to match their brand image.
- Product and Variant Level Control: This feature allows businesses to enable pre-orders for specific products or variants.
- Quantity Limit for Pre-orders: Businesses can set a maximum quantity for pre-orders, helping them control and manage inventory effectively.
Pricing:
- Free to Install
- Premium Plans: Starting from $14.99/month
Best for:
Pre-order Alpha is ideal for Shopify store owners of all sizes looking for an easy-to-use solution to manage their pre-orders. Its customizable features and ability to control pre-orders at the product and variant level make it a versatile tool suitable for various types of businesses.
Pros
- Easy to use with a user-friendly interface.
- Customizable pre-order button allows for brand consistency.
- Allows setting quantity limits for pre-orders.
Cons
- The interface, though user-friendly, may seem basic to some users.
- Advanced features are only available in higher-priced tiers.
Globo Pre-Order
Overview:
Globo Pre-Order is a robust Shopify app designed to help online businesses manage pre-orders efficiently. This app is well-known for its rich features and excellent customer support, offering a comprehensive pre-order solution.
Key Features:
- Pre-order Auto Replacement: This feature automatically switches the “Buy Now” button to “Pre-order” when a product or variant is out of stock.
- Stock & Date Scheduling: Retailers can schedule pre-orders based on expected stock arrival dates.
- Customizable Pre-order Button and Message: Globo allows the pre-order button and the related message to be customized to match the store’s branding.
- Pre-order Limit: This feature lets businesses set a maximum limit for pre-orders on specific products or variants.
Pricing:
- Free to Install
- Premium Plans: Starting from $6.70/month
Best for:
Globo Pre-Order is suitable for businesses of all sizes, particularly those with regular inventory changes or planned product releases. Its comprehensive feature set makes it a good choice for businesses that require a versatile and robust pre-order management system.
Pros
- Provides scheduling options based on expected stock arrival.
- Allows customization of pre-order buttons and messages.
- Enables setting limits for pre-orders.
Cons
- The user interface may be a bit complex for beginners.
- Pricing can be on the higher side for small businesses.
Pre-order Autopilot
Overview:
Pre-order Autopilot is a Shopify app designed to automate the pre-ordering process for online stores. As the name implies, this app focuses on reducing manual tasks related to pre-orders, making it a great choice for those looking to save time and effort.
Key Features:
- Automated Pre-order Activation: This feature allows the app to automatically change an “Out of Stock” product to a pre-order product, ensuring no lost sales due to stock unavailability.
- Product-Level and Variant-Level Pre-orders: Businesses can enable pre-orders at both product and variant levels, offering greater flexibility.
- Customizable Pre-order Buttons and Messages: This feature allows businesses to modify the pre-order button and message to fit their brand’s aesthetics and language.
- Email Notifications: Pre-order Autopilot can send automatic email notifications to customers once their pre-ordered items are available for shipping.
Pricing:
- Pre-order Autopilot offers a free trial period. After the trial, it operates on a tiered pricing model, with the cost depending on the scale of the business and the range of features required.
Best for:
Pre-order Autopilot is best suited for businesses that have frequent inventory changes and want to automate the pre-ordering process. Its automatic features and email notifications can help such businesses maintain a smooth pre-order operation with minimal manual intervention.
Pros
- Automated pre-order activation saves time and reduces manual intervention.
- Customizable buttons and messages allow for brand consistency.
- Email notifications keep customers informed about their pre-orders.
Cons
- Some users may find the setup process a bit complex.
- Advanced features are only available in higher-priced tiers.
PreOrder Me
Overview:
PreOrder Me is a highly-rated Shopify app that enables businesses to set up and manage pre-orders effectively. Known for its user-friendly interface and customizable features, it offers a flexible solution for e-commerce stores to handle pre-orders.
Key Features:
- Pre-order Button Configuration: This feature allows businesses to set up pre-order buttons for specific products or variants when they’re out of stock.
- Customizable Pre-order Button and Popup: Store owners can customize the pre-order button’s look and popup messages to align with their brand identity.
- Coming Soon Page: Businesses can showcase upcoming products with a “Coming Soon” page, creating anticipation among customers.
- Email Notifications: PreOrder Me can send email notifications to customers about their pre-order status, keeping them informed and engaged.
Pricing:
- Premium Plans: Starting from $9.99/month
Best for:
PreOrder Me is a great fit for small to medium-sized businesses who are looking for an easy-to-use and customizable solution for handling pre-orders. Its “Coming Soon” page feature makes it an ideal choice for businesses that regularly launch new products.
Pros
- User-friendly interface makes it easy to set up and manage pre-orders.
- Customizable pre-order button and popup allows for brand consistency.
- “Coming Soon” page helps generate customer excitement for upcoming products.
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like pre-order analytics or scheduling.
- Does not offer a free version beyond the trial period.
Crowdfunder Preorder
Overview:
Crowdfunder Preorder is a unique Shopify app that integrates the concept of crowdfunding with pre-orders. This app allows businesses to launch pre-order campaigns for their products, giving customers the opportunity to support and engage with upcoming product launches.
Key Features:
- Crowdfunding-Style Pre-orders: This feature enables businesses to create excitement around new product launches and measure customer interest.
- Goal Setting and Tracking: Businesses can set pre-order goals and track progress, creating a sense of urgency and excitement among customers.
- Customizable Campaign Pages: Crowdfunder Preorder allows businesses to create fully customizable campaign pages that reflect their brand identity.
- Real-Time Campaign Updates: Customers can see real-time updates on the progress of the pre-order campaign, enhancing their engagement.
Pricing:
- Premium Plans: Starting from $24/month
Best for:
Crowdfunder Preorder is best suited for businesses that regularly launch new products and want to create buzz and engagement around these launches. Its unique concept makes it a great choice for businesses looking to try a different approach to pre-orders.
Pros
- Unique integration of crowdfunding and pre-order concept.
- Goal setting and tracking capabilities add excitement and urgency to pre-order campaigns.
- Customizable campaign pages allow for brand consistency.
Cons
- May not be suitable for businesses seeking a traditional pre-order solution.
- More complex to set up and manage compared to other pre-order apps.
Steps to Integrate a Pre-Order App into Your Shopify Store
- Choose the Right App: Start by researching and choosing the pre-order app that best suits your business needs. The comparison table above can be a good starting point. Remember to consider factors like your budget, the size of your business, the complexity of your product range, and the specific features you require.
- Install the App: Once you’ve chosen your app, navigate to the Shopify App Store. Enter the name of your chosen pre-order app in the search bar, then click on it in the search results. On the app’s page, click on the “Add app” button. You will need to grant the app permissions to access your store’s data — review these permissions and if you’re comfortable, proceed with the installation.
- Configure the App: After installing the app, it’s time to configure it to match your business needs. Although the specifics will vary by app, generally you will need to set up how and when pre-order options are displayed, customize the pre-order button and messages, and determine what email notifications (if any) are sent to customers.
- Test the App: Before fully implementing the pre-order app, it’s important to test it thoroughly. This involves checking how it displays on different product pages, testing the pre-order process from a customer’s point of view, and ensuring email notifications (if applicable) are sent correctly.
- Optimize the App: Based on your testing, you might find areas where the app could be better optimized. This might involve changing the wording of the pre-order message, adjusting when the pre-order option is displayed, or tweaking email notification settings.
Tips for Optimizing Your Pre-Order App for the Best User Experience
- Clear Communication: Ensure that all pre-order messages are clear and unambiguous. Customers should understand exactly what they are pre-ordering, when they can expect the product, and how they will be charged.
- Brand Consistency: Customize the pre-order button and messages to match your brand’s aesthetic and tone of voice. This will ensure a consistent experience for your customers.
- Email Updates: If your app supports it, consider sending email updates to customers about their pre-order status. This helps keep customers engaged and reassured about their purchase.
- Testing: Regularly test your pre-order system to ensure it’s working smoothly. This involves not just checking functionality, but also usability from a customer perspective.
- Customer Support: Be ready to provide customer support specifically related to pre-orders. This can be as simple as adding a section to your FAQ page about pre-orders, or it might involve training your customer service team on how to handle pre-order related queries.
Note: These instructions and tips are quite general and should apply to most pre-order apps on Shopify. However, each app is unique and may require different setup steps. Always refer to the documentation or customer support for your specific app if you need help with installation or setup.
Effective Pre-Order Management Practices
- Promoting Pre-Orders:
- Create Hype: Leverage social media, email newsletters, and your website to create anticipation around your product before its launch. Teasers, countdowns, and sneak peeks can all be effective.
- Exclusive Benefits: Provide exclusive benefits to customers who pre-order, such as early access, exclusive bonuses, or discounts. This can encourage customers to pre-order instead of waiting for the official release.
- Use Influencers: Collaborate with influencers in your niche to promote your pre-order campaign. Their endorsement can reach a wider audience and boost your pre-order sales.
- Fulfilling Pre-Orders and Managing Expectations:
- Clear Delivery Dates: Be transparent about when customers can expect their pre-ordered products to be delivered. If there are delays, inform customers as soon as possible.
- Inventory Management: Have a solid inventory management strategy in place to fulfill pre-orders on time. Coordinate with suppliers and manufacturers to ensure stock availability.
- Prioritize Pre-Orders: Fulfill pre-orders first when your product becomes available. This respects the commitment your pre-ordering customers have made.
- Maintaining Clear Communication with Customers:
- Confirmation Emails: Send confirmation emails as soon as customers place a pre-order. This email should include details of the pre-order and the expected delivery date.
- Progress Updates: Regularly update your customers on the status of their pre-orders. This could include updates on manufacturing, shipping dates, and any potential delays.
- Customer Support: Be prepared to handle customer inquiries and concerns related to pre-orders. Having a robust customer support system will help to reassure customers and resolve any issues promptly.
Implementing these practices will help you to manage your pre-orders effectively, enhancing customer satisfaction and encouraging repeat business. Always remember that the key to successful pre-order management is clear communication, solid planning, and respect for your customers’ commitment.
Conclusion
The dynamic world of e-commerce continues to present businesses with novel strategies to enhance their operations, and utilizing pre-order apps on platforms like Shopify is no exception. These tools serve a crucial role in managing product demand, improving inventory management, boosting sales, and, most importantly, enhancing the customer shopping experience.
As we’ve delved into the myriad of options available, it’s clear that there’s a pre-order solution to suit every type of online store, from fledgling businesses to seasoned e-commerce giants. Each app offers unique features, pricing models, and customer experiences, catering to various needs and business goals.
Choosing the right pre-order app for your Shopify store may take some research and experimentation. It’s essential to align the features of these apps with your specific business needs, whether it’s sophisticated analytics, partial payment options, or even integrating crowdfunding elements into your pre-order process.
Remember, the magic lies in customization and adaptation. It’s all about understanding your brand’s unique requirements and how a pre-order app can best satisfy those needs while enhancing your customers’ shopping experience.
As you embark on this journey, don’t hesitate to experiment, explore, and even make a few mistakes along the way. It’s through this process that you’ll find the perfect fit – a pre-order app that propels your Shopify store to new heights of success.
Good luck on your pre-order adventure, and here’s to a future of seamless shopping experiences and satisfied customers!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you make pre-orders on Shopify?
Yes, Shopify allows merchants to set up pre-orders for their products. This can be achieved either by modifying the product settings manually or by using dedicated pre-order apps available in the Shopify app marketplace.
2. What apps are a must for Shopify?
The essential Shopify apps can vary based on the needs of each individual store, but generally include apps for SEO, customer reviews, email marketing, social media integration, and inventory management. Additionally, apps such as Oberlo for dropshipping, Klaviyo for email marketing, and Privy for pop-ups and email capture are highly recommended.
3. How do I add a pre-order label to Shopify?
Adding a pre-order label in Shopify can be done manually by editing your product's template code. Alternatively, many pre-order apps available in the Shopify app marketplace can automatically add a pre-order label to your products.
4. How do I pre-order games from the App Store?
To pre-order games from the App Store, simply search for the game in the store, and if it's available for pre-order, there will be a "Pre-Order" button on the game's listing. Tap on this button and follow the prompts to confirm your pre-order.
- Go to Online Store and select Themes.
- Click the three-dot icon on your current theme and select Edit Code.
- Choose Sections and then click on footer.liquid.
Then, press Control+F (on PC) or Command+F (on Mac) to search the HTML file. In the search box, type “powered_by_link” and click “Next” to find the code snippet.
- Remove the complete code line and save the file.
5. Is pre-order more expensive?
The cost of a pre-order depends on the pricing strategy of the seller. Sometimes, sellers offer pre-orders at a discounted price to encourage early sales. However, in some cases, pre-order items could be priced higher due to exclusivity or added benefits. It's always best to check the details of the pre-order arrangement before purchasing.
6. How do I create a pre-order?
Setting up a pre-order typically involves listing a product for sale before it's available, with a clear indication that it's a pre-order. On Shopify, this can be done by adjusting the product settings or using a pre-order app. Customers can then purchase the product as usual, but with the understanding that it will be shipped later.
