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Jun 25, 2025 09:39 PM
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Squarespace
ecommerce
inventory management
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To set up pre-orders on Squarespace, manually change the "Add to Cart" button to "Pre-Order," provide clear shipping dates, and manage customer expectations regarding delays and refunds. Use waitlists for out-of-stock items and ensure effective communication throughout the process.
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How to Set Up Pre-Orders on Squarespace
Learn to set up and manage pre-orders with your Squarespace store.
Tags: Squarespace, eCommerce, pre-orders, online store, Squarespace Commerce, inventory management
Quick Summary
- Squarespace doesn't have automatic pre-orders, but you can set them up manually
- Change your "Add to Cart" button text to "Pre-Order"
- Keep stock levels above zero for pre-order items
- Make shipping dates crystal clear in your product descriptions
- Use waitlists to capture interest for out-of-stock items
Setting Up Pre-Orders on Squarespace
Squarespace doesn't have a built-in pre-order system, but you can create one yourself with a few tweaks. This works well if you're launching new products or need to gauge demand before ordering stock.
Here's exactly how to do it.
Adding Your Pre-Order Product
Start by adding your product as normal, then make these key changes:
1. Write a clear product description
Don't bury the pre-order details. Put them right at the top:
- State clearly this is a pre-order
- Give a specific shipping date (not just "coming soon")
- Explain what happens after they order
2. Change your button text
In the product editor, go to the Checkout section and change "Add to Cart" to "Pre-Order". This small change makes a big difference to customer expectations.
3. Set your stock level
Keep this above zero. Even if you don't have the stock yet, you need customers to be able to order. Base this number on how many you expect to receive or want to sell.
Managing Customer Expectations
This is where most pre-orders go wrong. Be specific about dates and honest about delays.
Add these details to every pre-order product:
- Exact shipping date or week
- What happens if there are delays
- Your refund policy for pre-orders
- Link to your terms of service
Using Waitlists for Sold-Out Items
If you've got items that are temporarily out of stock (rather than pre-orders), turn on waitlists. Customers can sign up to be notified when you restock.
This works alongside pre-orders but serves a different purpose. Waitlists are for items you've had before. Pre-orders are for new or upcoming products.
Processing Pre-Orders
Once your stock arrives:
- Go to your Orders panel
- Find the pre-orders (you can search by product name)
- Mark them as fulfilled
- Send tracking details as normal
Set up a system to track which orders are pre-orders. You might tag them or use a separate spreadsheet until they're ready to ship.
Quick tip: Add links to your terms of service and return policies in your product descriptions. Clear policies reduce customer complaints and build trust.
Common Questions
Can I automatically notify customers when pre-order products arrive?
No, Squarespace doesn't have automatic notifications for pre-orders. You'll need to email customers manually or use the waitlist feature for out-of-stock items.
Is there a limit on pre-order products?
No limit. You can set up as many pre-order products as you need.
Can I change how the pre-order page looks?
Yes, you can customise the product page like any other. The main change you'll want is switching the button text from "Add to Cart" to "Pre-Order".
Key Terms
Pre-orders: Customers order and pay before you have stock. They get the item once it arrives.
Product Waitlists: Customers sign up to be notified when out-of-stock items are back. Different from pre-orders.
Stock Level: How many items you have available to sell (or expect to have for pre-orders).
Getting It Right
Setting up pre-orders on Squarespace takes a bit of manual work, but it's straightforward once you know what to change. Focus on clear communication with your customers. Tell them exactly when to expect their order, what happens if there are delays, and how to get help if they need it.
The key is managing expectations from the start. A well-explained pre-order keeps customers happy. A vague one leads to complaints and refund requests.