Set Up Pre-Orders on Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Squarespace doesn't have a built-in pre-order feature, but you can work around this
- Change your 'Add to cart' button text to 'Pre-Order' for clarity
- Keep stock levels above zero to avoid 'out of stock' messages
- Use product descriptions to explain shipping delays and policies
- Set up product waitlists to capture interested customers
- Manage orders through the standard Squarespace Orders panel when stock arrives
Squarespace doesn't offer a dedicated pre-order system, but you can create an effective workaround with a few tweaks to your product settings and clear communication with customers.
Setting Up Your Pre-Order Products
Add Your Product
Start by adding your product as you normally would. The key difference is in how you handle the product description and settings.
In your product description, be upfront about the pre-order nature. Include:
- Expected shipping or availability dates
- Your pre-order policies (cancellations, refunds, changes)
- Any relevant terms and conditions
Configure Stock Levels
Set your stock level to a number above zero. This prevents Squarespace from showing 'out of stock' messages. Choose a number that reflects how many pre-orders you're comfortable accepting.
You can always adjust this number later if demand is higher or lower than expected.
Customise the Add to Cart Button
This is where you make it clear to customers that they're placing a pre-order:
- Open your product editor
- Go to Checkout settings
- Enable the custom label option
- Change the button text to 'Pre-Order'
- Save your changes
You'll need to do this for each product you want to offer as a pre-order.
Using Product Waitlists
For customers who aren't ready to pre-order but want to stay informed, enable product waitlists:
- Go to your product settings
- Turn on the waitlist feature
- Customers can sign up to be notified when the item is available
This captures potential sales without requiring immediate commitment from customers.
Managing Pre-Order Fulfilment
When your stock arrives, you'll handle orders through the standard Squarespace Orders panel. The process is the same as regular orders, just with a longer gap between purchase and dispatch.
Keep customers updated if there are any delays or changes to expected shipping dates.
FAQs
Can Squarespace handle pre-orders natively?
No, Squarespace doesn't have a built-in pre-order feature. You need to use the workaround method described above.
How do I communicate shipping delays to customers?
Put all relevant information in your product description, including expected shipping dates and links to your store policies.
What happens if I need to cancel a pre-order?
You can cancel orders through the Orders panel and process refunds as needed. Make sure your pre-order policy covers this scenario.
Should I set a limit on pre-orders?
Yes, set your stock level to reflect the maximum number of pre-orders you can fulfil. This prevents over-selling.
Jargon Buster
Product Waitlists: A feature that lets customers sign up for notifications when out-of-stock items become available again.
Stock Levels: The quantity of inventory you have available (or in this case, the number of pre-orders you'll accept).
Custom Label: The ability to change button text, such as switching 'Add to cart' to 'Pre-Order'.
Wrap-up
Setting up pre-orders on Squarespace requires clear communication and careful management of expectations. By customising your button text, managing stock levels strategically, and being transparent about shipping times, you can effectively run pre-orders even without a dedicated feature.
The key is making sure customers understand exactly what they're buying and when they can expect to receive it.
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