Back-in-stock requests
When a product variant is sold out, shoppers can leave their email address and ask to be told when it is back. This needs no app. The request uses the store's built-in contact form.
Where it appears
The request is a block called "Back-in-stock request" on the product page. It shows only when the selected variant is unavailable. When the shopper picks another variant, the block updates with it. It is also available in the featured product section.
The block is not in the default product template. To use it, open the product template in the theme editor, add the block to the product information column, and save.
What the shopper sees
- A closed line reading "Email me when it is back".
- When opened, a short line of text you can change in the block settings, an email field, and a "Send request" button.
- After sending, a confirmation message appears. If something goes wrong, a message asks the shopper to check the address and try again.
The email field is filled in automatically for shoppers who are signed in.
What you receive
Each request arrives as an email to your store's contact address (the one in your store settings). The email includes:
- the product title and the variant title,
- the SKU (code) of the variant,
- the words "Back in stock",
- the shopper's email address, which you can reply to.
Requests are not stored in a list inside Shopify. Keep the emails, or add them to your own list, and email each shopper when the item is restocked.
Setting it up
- Make sure your contact email address is correct in the store settings. Requests go there.
- Set the variant's SKU so the request shows the code.
- Restock the variant. The block hides itself once the variant can be bought again.
Good practice
- Only email shoppers who asked to hear back. Do not add them to a marketing list without their consent.
- Tell shoppers roughly when you expect the item back, using the lead-time text on the product, if you know it.