Do you want to offer all the options to your store’s visitors? Using custom orders and private listings is a way to go.
Keep reading to see how you can enable custom orders for your buyers. It only takes a couple of simple steps. Let’s begin by exploring what private listings are.
What are Private Listings?
Etsy is a platform where sellers offer handmade items. It’s not rare to see unique requests coming from visitors. The platform creators had this in mind when they created Private Listings. That’s why you, as a seller, can enable the option for your buyers.
To put it simply, once you have a running listing, your buyer can request a custom order through a link on your store’s homepage. They will be able to reach out to you through Etsy’s messaging system with the details about the specific order they would like you to create.
If you’re interested in offering this option to your store’s visitors, here’s how you can do it.
How to Create a Private Listing on Etsy?
Offering this option is straightforward. After taking only a couple of simple steps, you’ll be able to deliver custom orders to your buyers. Let’s explore the necessary steps.
1. Enable Etsy Custom Order Requests
Custom orders are not available by default. You have to turn the option on so your customers can request it. Enable it in the following way:
- Head over to the Shop Manager.
- Click Settings.
- Now click Options.
- Find Custom order requests and click Enabled to turn it on.
- Don’t forget to click Save at the bottom of the page.
Now that’s out of the way. Your customers will see a link on your shop’s homepage. After clicking on the Request Custom Order link, they’ll see a window where they can state what kind of custom order they want to make.
2. Communicate the Order Specifics With the Customer
Once the visitor submits their request, you’ll be able to see it in the Custom Requests folder. You should communicate all the details with your buyer before moving forward. Make sure that you understand each other well.
Once you’re on the same page and everything’s clear, it’s time for you to create a private listing.
3. Create a Private Listing
To create the private listing, head over to messages. There, you’ll see a button Start building the custom order or Make this a custom order. Click on one of these buttons, and you’ll start building the custom order for your customer.
Once you finish, it’s time for the buyer to visit the listing and make the purchase. The rest of the process is the same as with any regular listing.
A Couple of Interesting Facts
The following are a couple of facts about the private listing’s that you’ll find helpful.
- You can always take a look at your Private listings by clicking on the Your Account icon. Click Shop Manager and then click Listings. You’ll find them labeled as Private.
- Private listings are not available to other sellers. But, after you make the sale, it will go to the Sold Items page, where everyone can access it.
- The moment you publish a private listing, the buyer receives an email with a purchase button.
All these little things exist to simplify the whole process of making a custom order. But the question remains, should you keep this option enabled.
Should You Create Private Listings?
While you can consistently offer customization with Variations, offering custom orders is still a great option. It gives more options to your customers who need something specific.
Overall, among many other ways of improving conversion rate, private listings can be helpful as well. We recommend that you enable this option, as there’s nothing to lose. Check out Etsy’s Seller Handbook post about custom orders. It’ll help you cover all the bases.
Finishing Thoughts
If you’re looking for a way to create outstanding listings that rank well, explore how Alura can help you. Learn more by reaching out to us. We’ll help you step up your game stay ahead of your competition.
