How to Add Free Shipping on Shopify

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Setting Up Free Shipping on Shopify
3. Promoting Free Shipping
4. Conclusion
5. FAQ

Introduction

Few things delight online shoppers more than seeing those magical two words: "Free Shipping." Offering free shipping is one of the most effective strategies for boosting sales and fostering customer loyalty on your Shopify store. But how do you set up free shipping in a way that benefits both your customers and your bottom line? This guide will provide a comprehensive walkthrough on how to add free shipping on Shopify, ensuring you fully leverage this powerful sales tool.

Why Offer Free Shipping?

Customers love free shipping, and it dramatically reduces cart abandonment rates. According to a recent study, 55% of shoppers will abandon their cart if extra costs, including shipping fees, are too high. By setting up free shipping, you eliminate a major pain point in the buying process. Additionally, free shipping can give you a competitive edge and promote customer loyalty.

Setting Up Free Shipping on Shopify

Create Free Shipping Rates

To get started with free shipping, you'll need to set up the appropriate shipping rates. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Log in to Shopify Admin Panel

   • Navigate to your Shopify admin panel by logging in with your unique credentials.

2. Go to Shipping Settings

   • Click on Settings at the bottom left of your dashboard.
   • Select Shipping and delivery from the list.

3. Manage Shipping Rates

   • Click on Manage rates to open your current shipping profile.

4. Add Free Shipping Rate

   • Next to the shipping zone you want to offer free shipping for, click Add rate.
   • In the Name field, enter a name like “Free Shipping.”
   • Make sure the Price field is set to 0.
   • Click Done and then Save.

Free Shipping Over a Certain Value

One effective way to encourage higher sales is by offering free shipping on orders over a certain value. Here’s how:

1. Navigate to Shipping Settings

   • Go back to Settings > Shipping and delivery.

2. Set Conditional Shipping Rate

   • In the shipping profile, click Add condition under the rate setup.
   • Choose Based on order price.
   • Set the minimum order value required for free shipping (e.g., $50).
   • Ensure the price condition is set to 0.
   • Click Save.

Free Shipping Based on Product Weight

You can also offer free shipping based on the total weight of the order, which can be valuable for stores selling lighter or less bulky items.

1. Access Shipping Settings

   • Go to Settings > Shipping and delivery.

2. Configure Weight-based Rate

   • Click on Manage rates.
   • Select Add conditions.
   • Choose Based on item weight.
   • Input the weight range (e.g., 0.5kg - 5kg) eligible for free shipping.
   • Ensure the rate is set to 0.
   • Click Save.

Free Shipping for Specific Products

If you want to offer free shipping on select products, you need to create a custom shipping profile.

1. Create Custom Shipping Profile

   • Navigate to Settings > Shipping and delivery.
   • Click on Create new profile.
   • Name the new profile (e.g., “Free Shipping Products”).

2. Add Products to Profile

   • Select the products you want to offer free shipping for and add them to this profile.

3. Set Free Shipping Rate

   • Click Add rate next to the relevant shipping zone.
   • Ensure the price field is set to 0.
   • Click Save.

Using Discount Codes for Free Shipping

You can also offer free shipping via discount codes, which customers can apply at checkout.

1. Create Discount Code

   • From the Shopify admin panel, navigate to Discounts.
   • Click Create discount, then select Free shipping.

2. Define Discount Details

   • Input a name for the discount code.
   • You can set usage limits, include minimum purchase requirements, and restrict it to specific shipping zones.

3. Set Active Dates

   • Determine the start and end date for the promotion.
   • Click Save.

Promoting Free Shipping

Don't let your free shipping offer go unnoticed. Here are some effective ways to promote it:

1. Free Shipping Bar

   • Use apps like Hextom: Free Shipping Bar to create a prominent banner that informs visitors about the free shipping offer.

2. Product Badges

   • Apps like Flair can add eye-catching "Free Shipping" badges to your product images.

3. Email Marketing

   • Include free shipping in your email campaigns to attract customers.

4. Social Media

   • Promote your free shipping offers on social media platforms to reach a wider audience.

Conclusion

Adding free shipping to your Shopify store is a powerful way to increase sales, reduce cart abandonment, and enhance customer satisfaction. By following this comprehensive guide, you can effectively implement and promote free shipping options tailored to your business strategy. Use this feature wisely, and watch as your business grows and thrives by meeting your customers’ needs.

FAQ

How can I add a 'Free Shipping' badge on Shopify products?

• You can use apps like Flair to add "Free Shipping" badges to any product on your Shopify store.

Who pays for shipping on Shopify?

• If you offer free shipping, you as the store owner will absorb the shipping costs. Consider this when pricing your products.

How do Shopify site owners get cheaper shipping rates?

• Store owners can negotiate directly with carriers or use Shopify Shipping to get lower rates with partners like FedEx and DHL.

Offering free shipping on your Shopify store doesn't have to be complicated. By leveraging the tools available within Shopify and promoting your offers effectively, you can turn this strategy into a key driver of your online success.