Offering free shipping is one of the best ways to boost sales and increase average order value in your WooCommerce store. Customers are more likely to add extra items to their cart when they know they can get free delivery by reaching a specific purchase amount. The WooCommerce Free Delivery Over a Certain Amount feature helps merchants set a minimum order threshold for free shipping, encouraging customers to buy more.
This feature is perfect for:
✅ E-commerce stores looking to increase average cart value
✅ Businesses that want to reduce abandoned carts
✅ Stores offering promotions or seasonal discounts
✅ Shops selling high-margin products
Why Offer Free Shipping Based on Order Amount?
Customers often abandon their carts when they see high shipping costs. By setting a free shipping threshold, you can:
✔ Increase Sales – Customers buy more to qualify for free delivery.
✔ Reduce Cart Abandonment – High shipping fees are a major reason for abandoned carts.
✔ Improve Customer Satisfaction – Buyers feel rewarded when they get free shipping.
✔ Compete Effectively – Many large retailers offer free shipping, and this helps you stay competitive.
How to Enable Free Shipping Over a Certain Amount in WooCommerce
Step 1: Configure Free Shipping in WooCommerce
1️⃣ Go to WooCommerce → Settings → Shipping
2️⃣ Click on Shipping Zones
3️⃣ Select a Zone Name (e.g., “United States”)
4️⃣ Click Add Shipping Method and choose Free Shipping
Step 2: Set the Free Shipping Threshold
Once the Free Shipping method is added:
✅ Click Edit
✅ Choose “A minimum order amount” as the condition
✅ Set the minimum order value (e.g., $50 for free shipping)
✅ Click Save Changes
Now, free shipping will automatically apply when a customer’s cart reaches the required amount!
Key Features of WooCommerce Free Shipping Over a Certain Amount
1. Set Custom Order Thresholds
- Define the minimum cart value customers need to reach for free shipping.
2. Apply Free Shipping to Specific Zones
- Offer free shipping for specific countries, regions, or local areas.
3. Combine with Discount Coupons
- Enable free shipping only when customers use a specific coupon code.
4. Display Free Shipping Progress in Cart
- Show a notification bar to inform customers how much more they need to spend to unlock free shipping.
5. Restrict Free Shipping to Certain Products
- Exclude heavy or oversized items from free delivery.
How Free Shipping Encourages Bigger Orders
Scenario 1: Increasing Cart Value
A store sets free shipping for orders over $75. Customers with a $60 cart may add extra items to qualify.
Scenario 2: Running Seasonal Promotions
During holidays, an online store can temporarily lower the free shipping threshold to $40 to boost sales.
Scenario 3: Rewarding Loyal Customers
Offer VIP customers exclusive free shipping on all orders over a set amount.
Scenario 4: Encouraging Bulk Purchases
For B2B stores, wholesale customers can qualify for free delivery when they buy in bulk.
Best Practices for Offering Free Shipping Based on Order Value
✔ Choose the Right Threshold – Set an amount that increases order value without reducing profit.
✔ Highlight Free Shipping Offers – Use banners, pop-ups, or cart notices to remind customers.
✔ Use Free Shipping as an Incentive – Pair it with limited-time promotions to create urgency.
✔ Track Customer Behavior – Analyze how free shipping impacts sales and adjust the threshold if needed.
Final Thoughts
The WooCommerce Free Delivery Over a Certain Amount feature is a powerful sales strategy that encourages higher spending, reduces cart abandonment, and increases customer satisfaction. By setting a reasonable threshold, you can drive more revenue while keeping customers happy.