Free Shipping Threshold
A free shipping threshold is a minimum order value above which the merchant offers free shipping. For example, 'Free shipping on orders over $50.' It's a conversion and AOV optimization tactic: customers often add more items to their cart to qualify for free shipping.
Why It Matters for Shopify Stores
Unexpected shipping costs are the #1 stated reason for cart abandonment in ecommerce. A clear free shipping threshold, displayed prominently on product pages and in the cart, reduces abandonment and increases AOV simultaneously. The threshold should be set 20–30% above your current AOV to incentivize incremental purchases. A progress bar in the cart ('Add $12 more for free shipping') drives additional add-to-cart behavior.
How to Check Your Store
Check if your free shipping offer is visible on product pages and in the cart. Is the threshold amount clearly stated? Is there a progress indicator in the cart?
Use the free trust score calculator toolHow to Fix It
Set a free shipping threshold in Shopify admin > Settings > Shipping. Display it as a banner on product pages and the cart. Add a cart progress bar app to show customers how close they are to qualifying.
Related Terms
Cart Abandonment
Trust & CROCart abandonment is when a shopper adds items to their cart but leaves the site without completing the purchase.
Average Order Value (AOV)
Trust & CROAverage Order Value is the average amount spent each time a customer places an order.
Conversion Rate
Trust & CROConversion rate is the percentage of store visitors who complete a purchase.
Trust Badges
Trust & CROTrust badges are visual elements displayed on product and checkout pages that reassure buyers about the safety and reliability of their purchase.
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