When local shoppers want their items in hand faster, the buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) feature in their favorite BigCommerce store can solve their problems. This approach, often called Bigcommerce BOPIS, does more than just add convenience. It helps you stand out from competitors that stick to shipping-only models.
Today, we will walk through a detailed process for bringing this option to life in your store so your customers feel supported and well-served every step of the way.
Why BigCommerce BOPIS Is Worth the Investment
Adding Bigcommerce BOPIS offers convenience and many advantages for the retail store. It can build trust and encourage return visits. Instead of waiting for shipments, buyers can order online and pick up their purchases at your store’s physical location at their most convenient time.
BigCommerce BOPIS brings the best of both worlds together. Shoppers still enjoy the ease of digital ordering while also having the reassurance of seeing and holding their products sooner if they wish.
This method works especially well for businesses with strong local followings. Customers can confirm item availability online and grab their orders, all the while bypassing shipping fees and delivery delays. It is a strategy that can streamline your operations, reduce return rates, and help you connect more closely with your shoppers.
A Seamless Customer Journey with BigCommerce BOPIS
Customers appreciate clarity. They want to order, pay, and pick up their items without feeling confused at any stage. With BigCommerce BOPIS built into your BigCommerce store, the process becomes smoother.
A few best practices:
Add clear pickup instructions on product pages and in checkout. Make sure your store hours and pickup location details are front and center to prevent misunderstandings and keep customers happy.
Fine-tune your site’s messaging to highlight the BOPIS option. Prominent calls to action or banners help shoppers see that they can pick up their orders at your store. This small change can reduce cart abandonment since buyers know they have a convenient pickup choice.
Prep Your BigCommerce Store for BOPIS
Before you roll out BOPIS, start with a review of your inventory and order management workflows. Look for patterns in your existing sales data. Which products sell most often in-store? Which ones are frequently bought by local customers?
Getting your inventory management squared away helps you confirm accurate stock counts. Avoid surprises by updating inventory levels often and communicating any stock changes to your customers upfront. A quick inventory review sets the stage for a BOPIS setup that works well from the start.
Configure the BigCommerce BOPIS Feature Step-by-Step
- Check store settings
Begin by reviewing your BigCommerce backend. Look for features or apps that support order pickup functionality. Some third-party solutions can be integrated smoothly, adding fields for local pickup times and instructions without heavy coding.
- Set up pickup locations
Add each physical pickup spot to your BigCommerce settings. Provide precise addresses and details about store hours. This step lets customers know exactly where to go and when they can expect their items to be ready.
- Adjust fulfillment options
Update your fulfillment and shipping settings. Include a clear local pickup choice. Make sure it appears alongside standard shipping at checkout. Spell out the pickup process so buyers know what to do after placing their orders.
- Communicate with customers
Once the setup is live, add confirmation emails that clearly outline pickup instructions. Keep the language simple and direct. Let customers know what forms of ID they may need, how long you hold orders, and any other important details they should remember.
- Monitor the process
After launch, keep an eye on how the BigCommerce BOPIS option performs. Track fulfillment times, pickup-related questions, and order accuracy. Use this information to refine the process and address any small issues before they turn into bigger problems.
Advanced Tips to Strengthen Your BOPIS Setup
- Inventory synchronization: If you use a point-of-sale (POS) system in your physical store, connect it to your BigCommerce catalog. Accurate stock counts mean that customers always know what’s available for pickup.
- Staff training: Spend time with your team to show them how to handle BOPIS orders. They should know how to find pending pickup orders, package them properly, and answer common customer questions.
- Order notifications: Automate notifications that let customers know when their orders are ready. This reduces guesswork and cuts down on phone calls asking for order status.
- Measure results: Keep track of changes in sales, store visits, and customer feedback. If local pickup leads to more frequent purchases or bigger order sizes, consider adding more pickup locations or extending pickup hours.
Marketing your BOPIS offering
Add a dedicated section on your website that outlines how BOPIS works. Use simple language and visuals that guide customers through the process. Promote the feature on your social media channels and in your email marketing campaigns. Mention any incentives, like skipping shipping fees or getting access to local-only stock.
If you operate a brick-and-mortar store, post signage inside to remind shoppers they can order online and pick up at the counter. This can spark interest and get regular visitors to check out your website. Over time, word of mouth will spread as shoppers mention the convenience of your service to friends and family.
Going beyond the basics
As your BOPIS option grows more popular, consider adding extra perks. Maybe offer a designated pickup counter for online orders. Speed up the handoff by having a team member handle pickup orders exclusively during peak hours.
Also, pay attention to customer feedback. Are they asking for longer pickup windows? Would they prefer an express lane for prepaid orders? Adjusting these small details helps you refine the experience and show your local audience that their comfort matters to you.
Conclusion
Implementing local pickup through BOPIS is a strategic move that can set your BigCommerce store apart. By thoughtfully setting up BigCommerce BOPIS, you can make the buying process easier and more appealing for customers who want their items without waiting for delivery.
With careful preparation and a clear plan, your online and in-store operations can work together smoothly, all while creating an experience that keeps shoppers coming back.
If you don’t have the time to set BOPIS up, you can always have your trusted website designer or the provider of your BOPIS app of choice do it for you.
Enhance Your BigCommerce BOPIS Offering with Epic’s eLocal
Epic is a full-service digital marketing agency that helps retailers strengthen their connection between online and in-store sales. Its eLocal solution integrates with BigCommerce to simplify order processing, keep inventory accurate, and make local pickup more convenient.
Offering clarity and streamlined workflows, eLocal can help turn BOPIS into a reliable, growth-oriented strategy. Drop us a message to know more, and we’ll get back to you right away!
