Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Adding Tracking Numbers on Shopify: A Step-by-Step Guide
- The Benefits of a 'Track Your Order' Page
- Effective Communication: Emailing Order Status Updates
- FAQ
Introduction
Did you know that one of the most frequently asked questions by online shoppers after completing a purchase is "Where is my order?" This query underscores the significant role that shipping tracking plays in the e-commerce experience. Shopify, an industry leader in the e-commerce platform space, offers robust solutions for integrating shipping tracking into your store, enhancing transparency and boosting customer satisfaction. In this post, we will explore the why and how of adding shipping tracking on Shopify, diving deep into methods that streamline the process for both merchants and customers. Whether you are a new store owner or looking to refine your existing operations, this guide promises actionable insights to elevate your online store's functionality.
The shipping tracking functionality on Shopify not only serves to keep your customers informed but also significantly reduces the workload on your customer service team by preempting common queries. In the following sections, we will cover the step-by-step process of adding tracking numbers before and after fulfillment, the advantages of building a 'Track Your Order' page, and effective communication strategies through email updates. Let’s embark on this journey to seamlessly integrate shipping tracking into your Shopify store, ensuring your customers are always in the loop.
Adding Tracking Numbers on Shopify: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before Fulfillment
The process of adding tracking numbers starts even before an order is fulfilled. Here's how:
- Navigate to Orders: From your Shopify admin dashboard, go to 'Orders' and select an order that is either 'Partially fulfilled' or 'Unfulfilled.'
- Fulfill the Item(s): Click on 'Fulfill item(s)' to access the order’s Fulfillment page.
- Enter Tracking Information: Input your shipment's tracking number in the 'Tracking information' section. Shopify’s intelligent system might automatically recognize the tracking number format and suggest a shipping carrier. However, if it doesn’t, or if it selects incorrectly, simply choose your preferred shipping carrier from the drop-down menu.
- Adding Multiple Tracking Numbers: If your shipment involves more than one package, click on 'Add another tracking number' and repeat the process for each package. Remember, all tracking numbers for a single order must be from the same carrier.
- Manual Entry for Unsupported Carriers: In situations where your carrier isn’t fully supported by Shopify or if you select 'Other' from the shipping carrier menu, you’ll need to manually enter the tracking URL provided by your carrier.
After Fulfillment
Occasionally, you might receive a tracking number after an order has already been fulfilled. Here’s what to do:
- Access the Fulfilled Order: Within the 'Orders' section of your Shopify admin, click on the relevant order number.
- Add Tracking: In the 'Fulfilled' section, click 'Add tracking' to update the order with the new tracking information.
- Edit Tracking Details: In the 'Edit tracking dialog', enter the tracking number. Similar to the pre-fulfillment process, Shopify might automatically identify the carrier. If not, manually select the correct carrier and input any additional tracking numbers if necessary.
- Notification Preferences: You have the option to send a shipping update to your customer. If you prefer not to, simply uncheck the 'Send notification email to customer' box before saving.
The Benefits of a 'Track Your Order' Page
Creating a dedicated page for order tracking within your Shopify store serves multiple purposes. It not only enhances the professionalism of your storefront but also significantly cuts down on customer service inquiries relating to order status. Platforms like Trackdog offer embeddable track button widgets that can easily be integrated into your Shopify store, providing a seamless, self-service experience for your customers. This proactive approach to order tracking fosters trust and reliability, encouraging repeat business.
Effective Communication: Emailing Order Status Updates
A crucial component of adding shipping tracking on Shopify is communication. Ensuring that your customers receive timely updates about their order status can immensely enhance their shopping experience. Shopify's email template system allows for the inclusion of links to the order status page in various email notifications, keeping your customers informed every step of the way. For stores with customized email templates, Shopify provides options to include the order status URL manually, ensuring no customer is left in the dark.
FAQ
Q: What can I do if my courier company is not supported by Shopify? A: For unsupported carriers, manually entering the tracking URL during the fulfillment process allows you to still provide tracking information to your customers.
Q: Can I add tracking numbers to 'My Account' page for each customer? A: Yes, although this might require custom coding or the assistance of a Shopify Expert to integrate properly on your storefront.
Q: Is it possible to send multiple tracking numbers for a single order? A: Yes, Shopify allows the addition of multiple tracking numbers for an order, provided they are all from the same carrier.
Q: How do I sync tracking numbers with email marketing platforms like Klaviyo? A: Shopify passes tracking information to Klaviyo as part of the 'Fulfilled Order' metric. You can then customize Klaviyo's pre-built Order and Shipping Confirmation emails to include this tracking information.
In conclusion, integrating shipping tracking into your Shopify store is not just about keeping your customers updated; it's a strategic move that can significantly influence customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. By following the step-by-step guide outlined above and utilizing the additional tips on communication and tracking page integration, you are well on your way to providing a standout shopping experience. Remember, in the world of e-commerce, transparency isn’t just appreciated—it’s expected.
