Backorder settings allow you to manage your inventory effectively, even when products are temporarily out of stock. Here’s how to set up and manage backorders on Mech Keybs:

Accessing Backorder Settings

1. Log in to your Seller Dashboard
2. Navigate to your product listing
3. Select a product to edit or add a new one
4. Scroll to the “Inventory” section

Enabling Stock Management

1. In the “Inventory” section, find the “Manage stock?” checkbox
2. Tick this box to enable stock management and reveal additional options

Configuring Backorder Settings

Once stock management is enabled, you’ll see the following options:

1. Stock Quantity:
   • Enter the current number of items in stock
   • For products with variations, you’ll need to set this for each variation
2. Allow backorders:
   • This determines what happens when the product is out of stock
   • Choose from three options: a. Do not allow: Customers cannot order when the product is out of stock b. Allow, but notify customer: Customers can place orders, but they’re informed it’s on backorder c. Allow: Customers can place orders without any notification
3. Low stock threshold:
   • Set the quantity at which you’ll receive a low stock notification
   • Choose a number that gives you enough time to restock

Best Practices for Backorder Management

1. Be realistic about restocking times when allowing backorders
2. Clearly communicate expected wait times to customers
3. Consider offering incentives (like discounts) for customers willing to wait
4. Regularly update customers on the status of their backordered items

Managing Backorders

1. Keep track of backordered items in your order management system
2. Prioritize fulfilling backorders when new stock arrives
3. Consider setting up automated emails to keep customers informed about their backorder status

When to Use Backorders

Backorders can be useful when:

• You have reliable restocking schedules
• The product is popular and customers are willing to wait
• You want to gauge demand for a product before fully stocking it

Potential Risks of Backorders

Be aware of these potential issues:

• Customer dissatisfaction if wait times are too long
• Increased customer service inquiries about order status
• Potential for cancellations if customers find the item elsewhere

Monitoring Backorder Performance

1. Regularly review how many of your sales are backorders
2. Assess customer satisfaction with backordered items
3. Adjust your backorder policy based on this data

While backorders can help you capture sales even when items are out of stock, it’s important to manage them carefully to maintain customer satisfaction. Use these settings wisely to balance inventory management with customer experience on Mech Keybs.