Expert Answer • 2 min read

What's the minimum order value I should set for free shipping?

As an e-commerce business owner, I'm struggling to determine the optimal minimum order value for free shipping. I want to encourage larger purchases and increase my average order value, but I'm unsure how to set a threshold that motivates customers without cutting too deeply into my profit margins. I need a strategic approach that balances customer psychology, product pricing, and my specific business economics to create an effective free shipping strategy that drives sales and profitability.
Muhammed Tüfekyapan

Muhammed Tüfekyapan

Founder & CEO

2 min

TL;DR - Quick Answer

Calculate your free shipping minimum by analyzing your average order value, product margins, and shipping costs. Typically, set the threshold 20-30% above your current average order value to incentivize larger purchases while maintaining profitability.

Complete Expert Analysis

Strategic Free Shipping Threshold Calculation

Determining the right minimum order value for free shipping requires a nuanced approach that considers multiple business factors and customer psychology.

Key Calculation Components

FactorImpactRecommended Range
Average Order Value (AOV)Primary BenchmarkBase Calculation Point
Shipping CostsDirect ExpenseMust Be Absorbed/Offset
Product MarginsProfitability ThresholdMinimum Margin Preservation
Competitor StrategiesMarket PositioningComparative Benchmarking

Calculation Formula

Step 1: Determine Base AOV

Total Revenue ÷ Total Number of Orders = AOV

Step 2: Calculate Shipping Threshold

Free Shipping Minimum = AOV × 1.20 to 1.30

Psychological Pricing Strategies

Motivational Tactics

  • Create visible progress bars showing remaining spend
  • Show potential savings dynamically
  • Use round numbers for easier mental calculation
  • Highlight total savings prominently

Conversion Optimization

  • Add small, low-cost items near threshold
  • Bundle products to reach minimum
  • Recommend complementary products
  • Create tiered shipping options

Industry Benchmarks

$50
Fashion/Apparel
$75
Electronics
$35
Beauty/Cosmetics
$100
Home Goods

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Muhammed Tüfekyapan

Muhammed Tüfekyapan

Founder & CEO of Growth Suite

With over a decade of experience in e-commerce optimization, Muhammed founded Growth Suite to help Shopify merchants maximize their conversion rates through intelligent behavior tracking and personalized offers. His expertise in growth strategies and conversion optimization has helped thousands of online stores increase their revenue.

E-commerce Expert Shopify Partner Growth Strategist

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