How to Create an Intuitive Checkout Process That Converts

By Meredith Fennema

May 23, 2023

The checkout process is the final step in the customer journey, and it can make or break a sale.

In this blog post, we’ll share some best practices for ecommerce checkout processes to help you improve your online store’s current setup or plan future improvements.

We’ll cover topics including:

  • Why the checkout process matters
  • Key elements of an intuitive checkout process
  • Examples of outstanding checkout processes

Don’t Let Your Checkout Process Cost You Sales

An intuitive checkout process is essential for an ecommerce store that wants to increase conversions and improve customer satisfaction. A well-designed checkout process makes it easy for customers to complete their purchase, which leads to more sales. Additionally, an intuitive checkout process reduces customer frustration, which leads to improved customer satisfaction.

Here are some of the benefits of having an intuitive checkout process:

  • Increased conversions: A well-designed checkout process can help to increase conversions by making it easy for customers to complete their purchase. According to a study by Baymard Institute, 69% of online shoppers abandon their carts at the checkout process. By making the checkout process more intuitive, you can help to reduce cart abandonment and increase conversions.
  • Improved customer satisfaction: An intuitive checkout process can help to improve customer satisfaction by reducing customer frustration. When customers have a positive experience at checkout, they are more likely to return to your store and make future purchases.
  • Increased brand loyalty: When customers have a positive experience with your checkout process, they are more likely to develop brand loyalty. This means that they are more likely to recommend your store to their friends and family, and they are more likely to return to your store in the future.

The 7 Key Elements of an Intuitive Checkout Process

The checkout process is one of the most important parts of an ecommerce store. It is the last chance that a store has to make a sale, and it is also the first impression that a customer has of the store’s customer service. A well-designed checkout process can be a powerful tool for increasing conversions and improving customer satisfaction.

Here are the 7 key elements of an intuitive checkout process:

  1. A clear and concise layout: The checkout process should be easy to follow and understand. The layout should be clear and concise, with all of the necessary information displayed prominently. Avoid using too much text or complex design elements, as this can make the checkout process more difficult to use.
  2. Easy-to-read text: The text on the checkout page should be easy to read. Use a clear and legible font size, and avoid using all caps or excessive punctuation.
  3. Required fields marked clearly: It’s important to mark required fields clearly on the checkout page. This will help customers avoid making mistakes and having to start the checkout process over again.
  4. Multiple payment options: Offer customers a variety of payment options, such as credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, and Apple Pay. This will make it more likely that customers will be able to complete their purchase.
  5. Clear shipping and return information: Make sure that customers have clear information about shipping and returns before they complete their purchase. This will help them to understand what they can expect and avoid any surprises.
  6. A progress bar or countdown timer: A progress bar or countdown timer can help customers to track their progress through the checkout process. This can help to reduce anxiety and make the process feel more streamlined.
  7. A confirmation page: Once the customer has completed the checkout process, they should be taken to a confirmation page. This page should display the order details and a confirmation number. It’s also a good idea to include links to the customer’s account and the store’s contact information.

By following these tips, you can create an intuitive checkout process that will help you boost your sales and improve customer satisfaction.

Examples of Excellent Ecommerce Checkout Processes

There are many ecommerce companies that feature an extremely user-friendly checkout process. Here are a few examples:

  • Amazon: Amazon’s checkout process is known for being simple and easy to use. Customers can quickly and easily enter their payment information and shipping address, and they can choose from a variety of payment options. Amazon also offers a one-click checkout option for customers who have previously saved their payment information.
  • Walmart: Walmart’s checkout process is also known for being simple and easy to use. Customers can choose to checkout online or in-store, and they can choose from a variety of payment options. Walmart also offers a free two-day shipping option for customers who have a Walmart+ membership.
  • Target: Target’s checkout process is similar to Walmart’s checkout process. Customers can choose to checkout online or in-store, and they can choose from a variety of payment options. Target also offers a free two-day shipping option for customers who have a Target RedCard.
  • Best Buy: Best Buy’s checkout process is similar to the checkout processes of other major retailers. Customers can choose to checkout online or in-store, and they can choose from a variety of payment options. Best Buy also offers a free two-day shipping option for customers who have a Best Buy Elite Plus membership.
  • Apple: Apple’s checkout process is known for being simple and easy to use. Customers can quickly and easily enter their payment information and shipping address, and they can choose from a variety of payment options. Apple also offers free two-day shipping on all orders over $50.

If you’re looking to improve your ecommerce store’s checkout process, we encourage you to follow the tips we’ve outlined in this blog post. By making your checkout process more intuitive, you can help to increase conversions and improve customer satisfaction. If you need support creating an intuitive checkout process for your ecommerce web development, our team of digital strategists can help. We have experience helping businesses of all sizes improve their ecommerce presence. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your business goals.

Ready to Connect?

Call: (616) 822-3706
Email: hello@simplersite.co

About Meredith Fennema

Meredith manages web design and digital strategy services for Simpler Site. Clients across the country appreciate Meredith’s commitment to growth, generosity and kindness, alongside Simpler’s practical, make-it-happen approach. Meredith studied Human Centered Design at Kendall College of Art and Design, earned her Foundations in Design Thinking and Designing Strategy certificates from IDEO U, and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Communications and Political Science from Calvin University. In business and in life, Meredith believes in the power of embracing the unknown. Outside work she practices this while mountain biking, backpacking, cooking, and vegetable gardening.

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