Protecting items in your cart once out of stock

[trilogytalk]

Is there a way for an item to be held in a customer's cart so it is not removed if it goes out of stock before they check out?

Example:  I have 10 items I launch that are very popular, but 20 people want them.  I want to make it so when it is in the customer's cart, it is held safely for a couple of minutes on a timer.  It is an issue when I have customers who are checking out to only get a message that the item is now out of stock.  It becomes a "who is faster at the keyboard contest".  Websites like ticket master have this option, but I cannot find anything like that on Shopify.

Any thoughts?

[Luna]

Hey, @trilogytalk.

That's a great question! Thank you for bringing it to us here in the Community forum. I'm more than happy to provide you with some suggestions to help achieve this. 

Based on what you have shared, the best way to set this up will be through the use of an app. The good news is that we have some great apps that can help. I suggest checking out:

• Scarcity: Cart Countdown Timer: This app allows you to add a "Your cart is reserved for x minutes" message in your cart and in products pages and urge visitors to complete their order within the given time frame.
• CodersLab Reserve Cart: The app serves as a reminder to your customers to check out their shopping cart within a limited period of time before the product is restored back to the inventory.

When deciding on an app, I recommend looking for great ratings. Browsing the reviews on an app can be a great way to learn more about what the app offers, and how other businesses have benefited from using the app. Keep in mind that most apps offer a free trial period so that you can test it out before committing. If you decide to not use the app, just ensure that you delete it from your apps before the trial ends to avoid getting charged. 

Let me know what you think of those apps. In the meantime, I'd love to hear more about your business. What type of products do you sell? 

[Luna]

Hey, @trilogytalk.

Just checking in with you to ensure that you get all the support you need. If you have any questions, please let me know. I'm happy to help!

Warmly, 

[trilogytalk]

Thank you,

I think the scarcity app is just what I was looking for.

[Luna]

Hey, @trilogytalk.

Thanks for getting back to me. I'm so happy to hear that we've found a solution for you. Don't hesitate to reach back out if you have any questions. 

Warmly, 

[Isabelle_Quesad]

Hello Luna; quick question : when using the scarcity app, does it mean the item is actually held in stock for 10 minutes and if it is the last one in stock no one else can grab it ? And then, it is "released" back in stock after 10 minutes ? thanks 🙂

[Blair]

Hi @Isabelle_Quesad,

Great question!

As that app is considered to be third-party, you will want to connect with the app developers directly. Their team would be best suited to answer any specific questions that you may have about the app. To connect, you can head over to this this page and scroll down to the support section. 

Please let me know if you have any other questions.