Boosting Customer Confidence and Conversions: The Power of Estimated Delivery Dates

In the fast-paced world of eCommerce, customer expectations are constantly evolving. One key factor that can make or break a sale is transparency about delivery times. In this blog, we’ll discuss why displaying Estimated Delivery Dates (EDD) before checkout is crucial for your online store's success. 

The Power of Informed Decisions 

Imagine this scenario: A customer is about to make a purchase. They've found the perfect item on your website, but they're hesitating. Why? Because they're not sure if it will arrive when they need it. This is where estimated delivery dates come in. By showing customers when they can expect their package to arrive before they complete their purchase, you're empowering them to make informed decisions. 

In fact, a staggering 75% of shoppers say that seeing an EDD before purchase positively influences their decision to buy an item. That's three out of four potential customers more likely to complete their purchase when they know exactly when to expect their delivery. Yet, surprisingly, 41% of major US eCommerce checkouts still only show shipping speeds instead of actual delivery dates. This gap presents a significant opportunity for retailers to stand out and provide a better customer experience. 

The Advantage of Exact Estimates Over Standard Shipping Windows 

You might be thinking, "But I already show shipping speeds. Isn't that enough?" Not quite. A study by the Baymard Institute revealed that users often hesitate or even abandon their carts when presented with shipping dates alone. Why? Because shipping speeds leave too much room for interpretation. 

Consider these two scenarios: 

• "Standard Shipping: 3-5 business days"
• "Estimated Delivery Date: Thursday, August 3rd" 

Which one gives you more confidence as a shopper? The second option eliminates guesswork and provides a clear expectation, reducing friction and increasing the likelihood of a completed purchase. 

The Advantage of OMS-Enabled Estimates Over Static Storefront Capabilities 

While some eCommerce platforms offer built-in EDD capabilities, these often rely on static or limited data sources. For maximum accuracy and reliability, consider implementing EDDs through an Order Management System (OMS). An OMS-enabled EDD takes into account real-time factors like inventory location, providing your customers with the most up-to-date and accurate delivery estimates possible. 

Summary: How Implementing EDDs is a Win for Customers and Your Business  

By displaying EDDs before checkout, you're not just improving the customer experience – you're also potentially boosting your bottom line. Clear delivery information can: 

• Increase conversion rates 
• Reduce cart abandonment 
• Reduce returns 
• Enhance customer satisfaction 
• Build trust and loyalty 

In today's competitive eCommerce landscape, every advantage counts. Implementing EDDs is a change that can have a significant impact on your customers' shopping experience and your sales. 

How Deck Commerce Order Management Can Help 

Are you ready to give your customers the clarity they crave? By using an order management system like Deck Commerce, you can highlight estimated delivery dates on your storefront pre-checkout, giving buyers all the information they need to make a purchase with confidence. Omnichannel solutions also allow for showing delivery estimates for every type of fulfillment, including store pick-up, same-day delivery, and more. 

Contact Deck Commerce today to learn how we can help bring pre-purchase transparency to your customers.