A Shopify preorder app lets shoppers buy an item before it's in stock, replacing the sold-out message with a preorder button and a shipping estimate. For boutiques, the most useful apps also handle back in stock alerts, partial payments or deposits, and order tags so preorders don't get shipped by mistake. STOQ, Timesact, PreProduct, Essent and PreOrder Globo are established options on the Shopify App Store.
How boutiques use preorders
- New arrival drops: open preorders when you post a sneak peek, before the shipment lands.
- Sold-out best sellers: keep selling a popular style while the reorder is on the way.
- Size gaps: let shoppers preorder a missing size you plan to restock.
- Made-to-order or custom items: monograms, custom hats or personalized gifts.
- Gauging demand: test interest before committing to a big reorder.
Preorders can bring cash in before you pay for stock, which helps boutique cash flow. Only take preorders for stock you're confident will arrive, and be clear about ship dates.
Shopify preorder apps compared
| App | Notable features (per App Store listing) | Good fit for |
|---|---|---|
| STOQ | Preorders, deposits and partial payments, back in stock email and SMS alerts; works with Shopify POS | Boutiques wanting preorders and restock alerts in one app |
| Timesact | Preorders on deposit, waitlists, back in stock notifications, shipping dates, order tagging | Stores running frequent drops |
| PreProduct | Pay now, pay later and deposit preorders; fulfillment holds; works with Shopify POS | Boutiques that want to charge when stock ships |
| Essent Preorder Back in Stock | Deposits and payment schedules, notify me forms, mixed cart prevention | Stores wanting control over mixed carts |
| PreOrder Globo | Scheduled preorders, partial payment, delivery notes, back in stock alerts | Simple setups with a delivery note under the button |
Features and pricing are from each app's Shopify App Store listing as of September 2026 and can change. Check the current listing and plan limits before installing.
App Store listings
- STOQ on the Shopify App Store
- Timesact on the Shopify App Store
- PreProduct on the Shopify App Store
- Essent Preorder Back in Stock on the Shopify App Store
- PreOrder Globo on the Shopify App Store
How to choose a preorder app
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Do you need deposits or pay later? | Charging on shipment reduces refunds if stock is delayed |
| Do you also want back in stock alerts? | One app can handle both |
| Do you sell in store on Shopify POS? | Some apps support POS preorders |
| Can it prevent mixed carts? | Avoids holding in-stock items until preorders arrive |
| Does it tag preorder orders? | Keeps staff from shipping too early |
Preorder best practices for boutiques
- Show an honest estimated ship date on the product page and in the confirmation email.
- Cap preorder quantities to what you've actually ordered.
- Email preorder customers if a shipment is delayed.
- Explain your preorder cancellation and return terms clearly.
- Use a preorder drop in your email and social plan to build excitement.
Preorder mistakes
- Taking preorders on stock you haven't confirmed with the vendor.
- Vague ship dates.
- Charging in full on items that may not arrive for weeks without telling shoppers.
Preorders are one tool in a bigger conversion plan. See Shopify conversion rate optimization for boutiques.