Enable Option to Enter a Phone Number at Checkout

Collecting phone numbers during checkout on Shopify is a great way to improve customer communication and streamline order management. Enabling this option lets you provide better service and keep your customers informed throughout the buying process. This guide will walk you through the importance of phone number collection, how to enable it, and other effective methods to gather customer contact information. Let’s make the most of your Shopify checkout process!

Explain the Importance of Collecting Customer Phone Numbers During Checkout

Collecting customer phone numbers when buying something from your Shopify store can help your business. It’s not just about getting more information – it’s about connecting better with your customers and selling more. Here are six main reasons why getting phone numbers is so important:

• Better order updates: Send timely texts about shipping and delivery, keeping customers informed and reducing inquiries.
• Effective marketing: Reach customers quickly with text messages about sales, new products, or special deals.
• Abandoned cart recovery: Send reminders to complete purchases, often leading to more sales than email reminders.
• Better customer support: Solve problems quickly and efficiently by offering direct phone support.
• Enhanced security: Use phone number for two-factor authentication, protecting customer accounts from fraud.
• Personalized offers: Send targeted deals based on customer preferences, increasing sales and engagement,

Enable Phone Number Filed at Checkout on Shopify: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Navigate to Settings

From your Shopify admin dashboard, locate and click on “Settings” in the lower-left corner.

Step 2: Access the Checkout Section

After entering the Settings menu, find and click on the “Checkout” option to customize the customer experience during checkout.

Step 3: Enable Phone Number or Email Option

In the Checkout section, under the “Customer contact method” section, select “Phone number or email.” This will allow customers to enter either their phone number or email at checkout.

Note: If you want to send SMS notifications to customers, Shopify recommends installing an SMS app for order and shipping notifications.

Step 4: Save Your Changes

Once you’ve made your selection, remember to click the “Save” button at the top-right corner to apply the changes.

Now, customers will have the option to enter their phone numbers during the checkout process to improve communication for order updates and shipping notifications.

Other Methods to Collect Phone Numbers on Shopify

While collecting phone numbers during checkout is common, several other methods exist to get customer phone numbers on Shopify. Let’s explore these options:

Newsletter Sign-up Forms

Like collecting emails, you can also ask for phone numbers in your newsletter sign-up forms. Add these forms to your homepage, footer, or as pop-ups. Make sure to explain clearly that you’ll send SMS updates and offers. You might say something like, ”Join our text club for exclusive deals!”

Create a Special Offer

People love discounts. Offer a small discount or free shipping in exchange for a phone number. For example, ”Text JOIN to 12345 to get 10% off your first order!” This gives customers a reason to share their number.

Use Social Media

Promote your SMS list on your social media accounts. Create posts highlighting the benefits of joining your text list, like early access to sales or special subscriber-only deals.

Add to Your Contact Page

On your store’s contact page, include an option for customers to provide their phone numbers. 

For example, you could say, “Want faster responses? Give us your phone number, and we’ll text you updates!”

Customer Account Creation

When customers create an account on your Shopify store, ask for their phone number as part of the sign-up process. Remember to make it optional and explain why you’re asking for it.

Post-Purchase Follow-up

After a customer makes a purchase, send a follow-up email asking if they’d like to receive text updates about their order status. This is a great way to introduce the idea of SMS communications.

Contests and Giveaways

Run a contest or giveaway where entering a phone number is part of the entry process. Just include clear terms about how you’ll use the number.

Website Pop-ups

Use pop-ups on your Shopify store to ask for phone numbers. You could trigger these based on time spent on site, exit intent, or specific page visits.

Add to Your FAQ Page

In your FAQ section, mention that customers can get faster support via text if they provide their phone number.

Remember, no matter which method you use, it’s crucial to follow these important guidelines:

• Always get clear consent: Ensure customers know what they’re signing up for when they give you their phone number.
• Offer value: Give people a good reason to share their number, like exclusive deals or faster customer service.
• Keep it optional: Don’t make providing a phone number mandatory unless it’s absolutely necessary for things like shipping or certain payment methods.
• Respect privacy: Be clear about how you’ll use their information and provide an easy way to opt-out.
• Follow the rules: When collecting and using phone numbers, ensure you comply with laws like GDPR or CCPA.
• Use double opt-in: Consider sending a confirmation text that customers must respond to before adding them to your list. This ensures you’re only messaging people who really want to hear from you.

Bottom Line 

I hope you find this post helpful in setting up phone number collection at checkout on Shopify. Gathering customer phone numbers can improve communication and offer personalized marketing opportunities. With simple adjustments, you can enhance customer engagement with pop-ups, social media, or checkout fields. Good luck!

Related Post: How to Enable Two-Step Authentication for SMS Text Messages on Shopify