17 Backorder Email Example Best Practices

In the realm of online retail, backorder situations are common, especially during high-demand periods. Handling these situations gracefully is crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty. Here are 17 best practices for crafting backorder emails that will keep your customers informed, satisfied, and loyal.

1. Apologize for the Delay

Start your email by apologizing for the backorder situation. Acknowledge the inconvenience caused and express your commitment to resolving the issue swiftly.

2. Explain the Reason for the Backorder

Provide a brief explanation of why the product is on backorder. This transparency helps build trust and understanding with your customers.

3. Give an Estimated Shipping Date

If possible, provide a realistic estimate of when the backordered item will be shipped. This gives customers a sense of certainty and reduces anxiety.

4. Offer Alternatives

Suggest alternative products that customers might be interested in while they wait for their backordered item. This not only improves the customer experience but also drives additional sales.

5. Keep Communication Open

Encourage customers to reach out with any questions or concerns they may have about their order. Provide multiple contact options for convenience.

6. Provide Order Status Updates

Periodically send updates on the status of the backorder, even if there’s no significant change. This keeps customers informed and engaged.

7. Use Clear and Concise Language

Avoid jargon and complex sentences. Use simple, direct language to communicate the backorder situation effectively.

8. Personalize the Message

Address the customer by name and refer to their specific order details, making the email more relevant and personal.

9. Include a Call to Action

Guide customers on what they can do while waiting, such as exploring other products or checking order status.

10. Design for Mobile

Ensure your emails are mobile-friendly, as many customers check their emails on the go.

11. Maintain a Positive Tone

Keep the messaging positive and constructive, focusing on solutions rather than problems.

12. Avoid Overpromising

Be realistic with your estimates and promises to avoid disappointing customers further.

13. Highlight Your Commitment to Quality

Reiterate your commitment to quality products and services, even in the face of backorders.

【AOTsend Email API】：AOTsend is a Managed Email Service for sending transactional emails. Support Email Types: reminders, authentication, confirmations, notifications, verification codes, invoices, password resets, account activations, billing statements, two-factor authentication (2FA), and one-time passwords (OTP) emails, etc. $0.28 per 1000 Emails. 99% Delivery, 98% Inbox Rate.

You might be interested in:
Why did we start the AOTsend project, Brand Story?
What is a Managed Email API, How it Works?
Best 25+ Email Marketing Platforms (Authority,Keywords&Traffic Comparison)
Best 24+ Email Marketing Service (Price, Pros&Cons Comparison)
Email APIs vs SMTP: How they Works, Any Difference?

14. Provide Easy Cancellation Options

Give customers the option to cancel their order if they’re not willing to wait.

15. Thank Customers for Their Patience

Express gratitude for customers’ understanding and patience during the backorder period.

16. Follow Up After Resolution

Once the backorder is resolved, send a follow-up email thanking customers for their patience and confirming the shipment of their order.

17. Learn from the Experience

Use backorder situations as an opportunity to improve your inventory management and customer communication strategies.

By following these 17 best practices, you can effectively manage backorder emails, enhance customer satisfaction, and maintain brand loyalty even in challenging situations. Remember, communication is key in building strong customer relationships, especially when things don’t go as planned.