7 reasons shoppers abandon checkout (and how to win them back)

A shopper who reaches checkout has already decided they like the product. When they leave, there's usually a specific reason. Find it, and you can fix it.

1. Unexpected costs

Shipping, taxes or fees appearing at the last step is the classic reason people leave. Fix: show delivery costs on the product page and cart, or set a free-shipping threshold.

2. Delivery is too slow, or unclear

Fix: show estimated delivery dates before checkout, not just after the order.

3. They have an unanswered question

Sizing, materials, compatibility, returns. If the answer isn't obvious, many shoppers leave to "check later" and never return. Fix: clear product FAQs, and a way to ask a question and get an answer quickly.

4. Being forced to create an account

Fix: turn on guest checkout and offer Shop Pay or other express options.

5. Not enough trust

New brand, no reviews, unfamiliar payment page. Fix: show reviews, a clear returns policy and recognisable payment logos.

6. Price comparison

Some shoppers open a few tabs and pick the cheapest. Fix: remind them what makes you different, and when it makes sense, offer a small, limited-time incentive.

7. They simply got distracted

A phone call, a bus stop, a child. Life happens. Fix: a timely, friendly reminder.

Recovering the carts you still lose

No checkout is perfect. Auto Recover texts shoppers who abandoned checkout and answers their questions using your store's own information. It handles reasons 2, 3, 6 and 7 in a single conversation, and you set the maximum discount it's allowed to offer, including none at all.

Try it free for 7 days.