Today’s shoppers want options. Some love the convenience of shopping online, while others still enjoy popping into a store. But what if they didn’t have to choose? That’s where BigCommerce BOPIS comes in (short for the “Buy Online, Pick Up In Store” method on the BigCommerce platform).
With a BOPIS app integrated into your store, customers shop online and pick up their orders at your store. It’s fast, flexible, and a total game-changer for BigCommerce businesses looking to keep up with customer demands. No waiting for delivery, no extra shipping costs—just happy shoppers getting what they need, when they need it.
This blog is here to help you master the method. We’ll walk you through actionable tips and tricks to maximize your sales, streamline operations, and keep customers coming back for more!
Benefits of Implementing BigCommerce BOPIS
If you’re not offering BOPIS yet, you’re leaving money—and customer satisfaction—on the table. Let’s look into how BOPIS on BigCommerce can transform your business.
Enhanced customer experience
When it comes to keeping customers happy, convenience is king. BOPIS delivers in two big ways:
Convenience at its best
Picture this: your customer orders online during their lunch break and picks it up on their way home—no shipping fees, no waiting. That’s the kind of flexibility today’s shoppers crave, and it’s exactly what BigCommerce BOPIS provides.
Immediate gratification
With BOPIS, customers get their purchases faster than any shipping service can deliver. Last-minute gift or an urgent need, your customers can get what they want without delay.
Increased sales opportunities
BOPIS makes customers happy and boosts the bottom line.
Impulse buys are a real thing
When customers come to your store to pick up their orders, many don’t stop there. They’ll see something they didn’t realize they needed and add it to their cart—right then and there.
Lower cart abandonment rates
Cart abandonment is the bane of online shopping. By offering BOPIS, you give hesitant buyers a reason to click “complete order.” It’s a simple solution to a common problem.
Improved inventory management
BOPIS is a win for your operations, too.
Real-time inventory tracking
When your BigCommerce store and your physical location are synced, you’ll always know what’s in stock. That means no disappointing customers with “out of stock” notifications after they’ve placed an order.
Efficient stock utilization
BOPIS helps you balance inventory across online and offline channels, making sure no item sits on a shelf collecting dust. It’s a smarter way to manage what you have.
Setting It Up
Getting BOPIS up and running on your BigCommerce store might sound intimidating, but it’s easier than you think. With the right tools and settings, you’ll be ready to give your customers the seamless shopping experience they expect. Here’s how to get started.
Configuring BOPIS
The first step in offering BOPIS is to set up the features directly in your BigCommerce store.
Enable in-store pickup options
BigCommerce makes it simple to add in-store pickup as a fulfillment option. Navigate to your store’s settings, activate the in-store pickup feature, and customize the details: pickup locations, hours, and any additional instructions for your customers. This ensures your shoppers know exactly when and where to collect their orders.
Leverage BigCommerce’s BOPIS APIs
For a more tailored experience, BigCommerce offers APIs designed specifically for BOPIS functionality. With these tools, you can create a custom process that fits your business needs, like syncing pickup times with real-time inventory or offering advanced scheduling options.
BigCommerce’s developer support makes it easy to integrate these APIs and elevate your BOPIS service.
Choosing the right tools and apps
Once your settings are configured, you’ll want a tool that makes managing BOPIS even smoother.
Epic’s eLocal
Epic’s eLocal is the go-to solution for BigCommerce businesses that want to simplify local delivery and pickup. This tool is customizable to your store’s needs, ensuring your customers have a smooth experience from start to finish. Plus, it’s designed to integrate seamlessly with your BigCommerce store, making setup and ongoing management a breeze.
With eLocal, you can:
- Streamline pickup orders.
- Ensure accurate inventory syncs for BOPIS.
- Customize pickup details for your store locations.
By adding eLocal to your BigCommerce setup, you’re setting the stage for a BOPIS system that’s exceptional.
Ensuring real-time inventory visibility
BOPIS success hinges on knowing exactly what’s in stock—both online and in-store. Here’s how to make sure your inventory management is up to par:
Synchronize inventory levels
Keep your online and in-store inventory in sync to avoid confusion and ensure customers can only order what’s available. Use inventory management tools within BigCommerce to update stock levels in real-time as orders are placed and fulfilled.
Prevent stockouts and overselling
Nothing frustrates customers more than ordering an item only to find out it’s unavailable. Prevent this by using BigCommerce’s inventory tracking features to monitor stock closely and set alerts when items run low.
Optimizing the BOPIS Experience for Customers
Setting up BOPIS is only half the battle. To truly maximize its potential, you need to create a smooth and satisfying experience for your customers. Here’s how you can make their BOPIS journey effortless and enjoyable.
Clear communication
Clarity is everything when it comes to BOPIS. The last thing you want is for a customer to feel lost or frustrated.
Transparent pickup instructions
Make sure your customers know exactly how and where to pick up their orders. Provide clear directions on your website, in confirmation emails, and on signage at your store. Include details like pickup locations, parking instructions, and any ID or order information they need to bring.
Timely notifications
Keep customers informed every step of the way. Send email or SMS updates when their order is received, processed, and ready for pickup. Timely notifications build trust and reduce the chances of miscommunication.
Streamlined in-store processes
Your in-store setup can make or break the BOPIS experience. A little preparation goes a long way.
Dedicated pickup areas
Create a designated pickup zone that’s easy to find and clearly marked. This minimizes confusion and keeps foot traffic flowing smoothly. Having a dedicated spot speeds up the process for everyone.
Staff training
Your employees are key to a successful BigCommerce BOPIS operation. Train them to handle BOPIS orders efficiently, from retrieving items quickly to providing friendly, helpful service. A well-trained team ensures customers leave with a positive impression of your store.
Flexible pickup options
Convenience is the cornerstone of BOPIS, so offering flexible options can make your service stand out.
Curbside pickup
For customers in a hurry, curbside pickup is a lifesaver. Let them stay in their car while you bring the order to them. Clear signage and instructions on where to park and notify staff make this option seamless.
Extended pickup hours
Not everyone can swing by during regular business hours. Offer extended pickup times—early mornings, late evenings, or even weekends—to give your shoppers more opportunities to collect their orders on their schedule.
Marketing Strategies to Promote BOPIS
Offering BOPIS in your store is a smart move—but if your customers don’t know about it, you’re missing out on its full potential. Here’s how to spread the word and make sure your customers are as excited about BOPIS as you are.
Website promotion
Your website is the first stop for most customers, so it’s the perfect place to showcase your BOPIS service.
Highlight BOPIS on the homepage
Make BOPIS impossible to miss. Use banners, sliders, or pop-ups on your homepage to grab attention. A simple message like, “Shop Online, Pick Up In Store—No Shipping Fees!” can make all the difference.
Ensure the banner links directly to more information or to your product pages for a seamless user experience.
Create a detailed BOPIS information page
Dedicate a page to explaining how BOPIS works. Include step-by-step instructions, FAQs, and any perks like no shipping fees or same-day pickup. Add visuals like images or videos to make the process clear and engaging. This page can also serve as a link destination for your marketing campaigns.
(Don’t forget to use SEO keywords so your page can be easily searchable when customers look for stores that offer BOPIS.)
Email marketing
Email is a direct line to your customers and one of the best tools for announcing your new BOPIS service.
Announce BOPIS availability
Craft a newsletter letting subscribers know that BOPIS is now available. Keep it simple and to the point, with a clear subject line like, “Shop Online, Pick Up In Store—Now Available!” Include a call-to-action (CTA) button that directs readers to your BOPIS information page.
Offer exclusive BOPIS promotions
Give customers a reason to try BOPIS with exclusive offers. For example, “Save 10% on Your First In-Store Pickup Order!” can entice hesitant shoppers to give it a go. Include promo codes or clickable buttons that take them directly to your product pages.
Social media engagement
Social media is where your customers are hanging out, so meet them there to promote your BOPIS service.
Share customer testimonials
Let your happy customers do the talking. Post testimonials or stories from satisfied BOPIS users, including photos or quotes about their experience. This adds social proof and builds trust with your audience.
Run targeted social media ads
Boost awareness with ads aimed at local audiences. Highlight key benefits like same-day pickup and no shipping fees. Use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to reach potential customers in your area and direct them to your BOPIS information page or product catalog.
Conclusion
BOPIS is a smarter way to do business. Giving customers the flexibility they want and improving how you manage your sales can raise your eCommerce business to new heights. From enhancing customer satisfaction to driving in-store purchases and streamlining inventory management, the benefits are hard to ignore.
Let’s Change the Way You Do Business with BigCommerce BOPIS
BOPIS is a game-changer, and there’s no better time to get started than now. Epic is here to help.
With Epic’s expertise in eCommerce solutions, you’ll get:
- Seamless integration of BOPIS features.
- A tailored setup that matches your store’s unique needs.
- Ongoing support to keep your operations running smoothly.
Contact us today to see how we can help you implement BOPIS on your BigCommerce store. Reach out directly to start building a better shopping experience for your customers!
