Text messaging is one of the most effective tools for Shopify merchants, boasting a 98% open rate and 90% of messages read within three minutes. These stats highlight SMS as a fast, reliable way to connect with customers at every stage of their journey. From promotions to order updates and abandoned cart reminders, this guide offers 43 ready-to-use text message templates tailored to the US market. Each template is designed to drive sales, improve engagement, and maintain compliance with regulations like the TCPA and CAN-SPAM Act.
Key Highlights:
Promotions & Discounts: Flash sales, birthday specials, and loyalty incentives.
Order Updates: Confirmation, shipping updates, and delivery alerts.
Abandoned Cart Recovery: Gentle reminders, discounts, and urgency-driven messages.
Customer Engagement: Welcome texts, seasonal check-ins, and loyalty program invites.
Support & Alerts: Issue notifications, security alerts, and inventory updates.
These templates combine personalization and automation to help you streamline communication, recover lost sales, and build customer trust. Whether you're boosting ROI or handling customer concerns, these messages are crafted to deliver results while staying compliant with US laws.
Shopify SMS Marketing Tutorial - Setup Automated AI Text Message Marketing
1. Promotions and Discounts
Promotional text messages are a powerful way to connect with your customers. With SMS click-through rates ranging from 21–35% [5] and 75% of consumers making purchases because of SMS marketing [6], these message templates can help drive sales and engagement.
Flash Sale Announcement
"⚡ FLASH SALE: Get 30% off [PRODUCT] – today only! Use code FLASH30 at checkout: [URL] Text STOP to opt out."
This message creates urgency with time-sensitive language and a bold emoji, encouraging immediate action.
General Storewide Discount
"✨ Sparkle and save! ✨ Enjoy 20% off your entire purchase at [Your Store Name]. Use code SPARKLE at checkout. [link]"
A playful tone paired with a clear discount offer makes this template versatile for any audience.
Holiday Promotion
"🎉 Happy [Holiday Name], [Customer Name]! 🎊 Celebrate with us and enjoy 15% off storewide. Use code: HOLIDAY15. May your day be filled with joy and shopping! 🛒🌟"
By adding festive emojis and personalization, this message taps into the celebratory spirit of the season.
Birthday Special Offer
"Happy birthday, [First Name]! Enjoy 15% off storewide. Use BDAY15 at checkout: [URL] Ts and Cs apply. Text STOP to opt out."
Birthday messages feel personal and exclusive. For example, Gymshark uses similar tactics, offering a 10% discount to email and SMS subscribers [4], showing how these gestures can boost engagement.
VIP Exclusive Discount
"🌟 VIP EXCLUSIVE: You're getting early access to our sale! 25% off everything with code VIP25. Shop before everyone else: [URL]"
A sense of exclusivity makes customers feel valued and motivates them to act quickly.
New Product Launch Promotion
"🚀 NEW ARRIVAL ALERT! Be the first to try [Product Name] with 20% off. Use code FIRST20: [URL] Limited quantities available!"
Lashify uses similar strategies, offering new SMS subscribers a $20 discount and highlighting key product details [4]. Phrases like "limited quantities" create urgency, encouraging immediate purchases.
Customer Re-engagement Offer
"Hi [First Name], long time no see! It's been a while since your last order for [Product]. We'd love to offer you 20% off to place a new order! Visit us today at [Store Link]."
Acknowledging past purchases builds loyalty and invites customers to return.
Loyalty Program Incentive
"Join our VIP club and unlock 15% off your next purchase! Plus, get exclusive deals sent straight to your phone. Sign up: [URL]"
This message promotes a loyalty program while offering an enticing discount to encourage sign-ups.
Abandoned Cart Recovery with Discount
"Hi [First Name], you left $[Amount] worth of items in your cart! Complete your purchase with 10% off using code SAVE10: [Cart Link]"
Combining abandoned cart reminders with a discount is highly effective. For example, Organi Grow Hair recovered $25,000 monthly using similar SMS strategies, achieving a 16.9x ROI and generating $1,248,723 in revenue [1].
These templates succeed because they blend personalization with urgency. With 33% of people responding to SMS messages with clear calls-to-action and 47% of those respondents making purchases [6], it’s clear that well-crafted SMS campaigns can significantly impact your bottom line.
Next, let’s explore how order updates and shipping notifications can improve customer engagement.
2. Order Updates and Shipping Notifications
Keeping customers in the loop about their orders builds trust and eases any worries. With 83% of shoppers wanting regular updates via text about their shipping status [8] and 91% actively tracking their packages [7], these updates are a key part of the customer experience. Below are message templates tailored to different stages of the order process.
Order Confirmation
"Hi [Customer Name], your order #[Order Number] for [Product name] has been confirmed. It will be shipped soon, and we’ll send you a tracking link once it’s on its way. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Thanks for choosing us!"
This message reassures customers that their purchase has been successfully processed and sets clear expectations for the next steps.
Order Processing Update
"Good news, [Customer Name]! Your order #[Order Number] is being prepared for shipment. We’re getting your [Product Name] ready, and it’ll be on its way shortly."
Updates like this help reduce customer anxiety during the processing phase and cut down on "Where's my order?" inquiries, which make up 16% of support tickets for many ecommerce businesses [7].
Shipment Confirmation
"Hi [Customer Name], your order #[Order Number] for [Product name] has shipped! It’s expected to arrive by [Expected delivery date]. You can track it here: [Tracking link]."
This message provides essential tracking details, keeping customers informed and engaged.
Package in Transit
"Exciting news! Your order from [Your Store Name] is on its way. Follow its journey here: [Tracking link]."
An upbeat tone paired with practical tracking information keeps customers excited and informed.
Out for Delivery
"Hi [Customer Name], your order #[Order Number] for [Product name] is out for delivery and should arrive by [Time window]. If you need assistance, contact us at [Customer support number]."
This notification helps customers plan their day while building anticipation.
Delivery Confirmation
"Your order #[Order Number] for [Product name] has been delivered! We hope you love it. Let us know how everything went by sharing your feedback here: [Delivery feedback link]. For any questions, reach out to us at [Customer support number]."
This message provides closure and encourages customers to share their delivery experience.
Enhanced Delivery with Engagement
"Hey there! Your [Product Name] from [Your E-commerce Store Name] has arrived! Share your unboxing moment with us using #HappyCustomer. Enjoy your new purchase!"
This template encourages customers to engage on social media, creating opportunities for user-generated content.
Delivery with Incentive
"Surprise! Your package from [Your E-commerce Store Name] is waiting for you. Thank you for shopping with us! Here’s a little something for next time: enjoy 10% off your next order with code THANKYOU10. Happy shopping!"
Combining delivery confirmation with a discount is a great way to encourage repeat business.
Delayed Shipment Alert
"Hi [Customer Name], we wanted to update you about your order #[Order Number]. Due to high demand, your shipment will be delayed by 2–3 days. The new expected delivery date is [New Date]. Thank you for your patience!"
Being upfront about delays helps manage expectations and reduces the number of support requests. Clear communication like this builds trust, even in less-than-ideal situations.
3. Abandoned Cart Reminders
Did you know that 70% of online shopping carts are abandoned, leading to a staggering $4.6 trillion in lost sales globally each year [9]? That’s a massive opportunity waiting to be recovered. And here’s the kicker: SMS messages boast a 98% open rate, with click-through rates ranging from 20-35% [9]. By sending timely, well-crafted messages, you can turn those abandoned carts into completed sales. Here are a few strategies to help you bring those shoppers back.
Simple Reminder
Sometimes, a gentle nudge is all it takes. Try this straightforward message:
"Hi [Customer Name], you left an item in your cart! Your [Product Name] is waiting for you. Complete your purchase here: [Cart Link]"
Sending this within an hour or two of cart abandonment often yields the best results [10]. It’s simple, non-intrusive, and keeps your business top of mind.
Discount Incentive
Who doesn’t love a deal? Offer a small discount to sweeten the deal:
"Hey [Customer Name]! Still considering [Product Name]? Enjoy 15% off. Use code SAVE15 and complete your order: [Cart Link]. Offer expires in 24 hours!"
Adding a time-sensitive discount creates a sense of urgency while giving customers a reason to act now [9].
Stock Scarcity
Fear of missing out is real, and you can use it to your advantage:
"Hi [Customer Name], only 3 left in stock of the [Product Name] in your cart! Don’t miss out: [Cart Link]"
This tactic works especially well for popular items, encouraging customers to act before it’s too late.
Personal Touch
Make your message feel less automated and more human:
"[Customer Name], we noticed you were checking out that [Product Name] – great choice! It’s one of our bestsellers. Ready to make it yours? [Cart Link]"
By referencing the specific product and adding a conversational tone, you create a connection that feels personal [9].
Free Shipping Offer
Shipping costs can be a dealbreaker. Remove that barrier:
"Hi [Customer Name]! Your [Product Name] is lonely in your cart. Complete your order now and we’ll cover shipping! [Cart Link]"
This simple incentive can be the push customers need to finalize their purchase.
Social Proof
People trust what others love. Highlight positive reviews:
"Hey [Customer Name], that [Product Name] in your cart has numerous five-star reviews! Join hundreds of happy customers: [Cart Link]"
Adding social proof builds confidence and reduces hesitation.
Problem-Solution Focus
Remind customers why they were interested in the first place:
"Hi [Customer Name], ready to solve [specific problem] with [Product Name]? Your solution is just one click away: [Cart Link]"
This approach reconnects shoppers with their original motivation, making the decision to buy feel more purposeful.
Conversational Follow-up
Sometimes, customers just need a little extra help:
"Hi [Customer Name], questions about the [Product Name] in your cart? Reply to this text and we’ll help, or complete your order here: [Cart Link]"
Offering real-time support can address any lingering doubts. For example, Chaser used this approach to generate $207,341 in revenue through over 10,983 customer conversations and a 42.78% reply rate [11].
Final Chance
When time is running out, create a sense of urgency:
"Your [Product Name] will be removed from your cart in 2 hours. Don’t let it slip away: [Cart Link]"
This last reminder is a subtle but effective way to encourage immediate action.
"The most successful abandoned cart SMS campaigns are timely, personal, and compelling." [9]
4. Customer Engagement and Personalization
Order updates and abandoned cart reminders might drive quick sales, but personalized engagement is what builds long-term customer loyalty. When you tailor SMS messages to individual preferences, you’re not just sending texts - you’re creating connections. And those connections can pay off: businesses using personalized messaging often see a 10-15% boost in revenue [3].
Welcome New Subscribers
Kick things off with a warm welcome message that offers immediate value:
"Hi [First_Name], thanks for signing up to receive updates from [Store_Name]! Here’s 10% off your first order - just use the code FIRST10: [Store_Link]" [2]
This kind of message sets the stage for a positive relationship right from the start.
Birthday Celebrations
Make customers feel special on their big day by collecting their date of birth during sign-up [2]. Then, send a celebratory message like:
"Happy birthday, [First_Name]! Celebrate with 25% off your next order. Use code BDAY, valid for one month: [Store_Link]" [2]
It’s a small gesture that can leave a lasting impression.
Loyalty Program Invitations
Want to turn customers into loyal fans? Invite them to join your loyalty program with a message like:
"Hi [First_Name]! Earn points and unlock exclusive deals by joining our loyalty program at [Store_Name]: [Loyalty_Program_Link]" [2]
Timing is everything - sending this invite after a purchase, when satisfaction is typically at its peak, can increase sign-ups [2].
Post-Purchase Follow-Up
A few days after delivery, follow up to check in and encourage repeat business:
"Hi [Customer Name], how’s your [Product Name]? We’d love your feedback! As a thank you, here’s 15% off your next order: [Link]"
This approach combines customer care with a gentle nudge toward their next purchase.
Reorder Reminders
For consumable products, anticipate when customers might need a refill and send a timely reminder:
"Running low on [Product Name]? Reorder now and enjoy free shipping: [Reorder_Link]" [12]
A simple, one-click reorder option can make the process effortless and boost conversions.
Seasonal Check-Ins
Align your messages with the seasons to make them more relevant:
"Hey [Customer Name], fall is here! Your [Product Name] from last spring was perfect for the season. Check out our new autumn collection: [Link]"
By referencing past purchases and offering tailored recommendations, you create messages that feel thoughtful and personal [12].
VIP Access
Capitalize on the fact that 66% of consumers prefer text communication from brands [13]. Offer exclusive perks to your most engaged subscribers:
"VIP Alert! [Customer Name], you get first access to our Black Friday sale - 24 hours before anyone else. Shop now: [VIP_Link]"
Exclusive offers and early access can also help re-engage dormant customers [12].
Win-Back Campaigns
When customers haven’t purchased in a while, bring them back with a re-engagement message:
"We miss you, [Customer Name]! Here’s 20% off and free shipping to welcome you back: [Link]" [12]
This is also a great opportunity to ask for feedback and understand why they’ve been inactive.
Product Care Tips
Show customers you care by offering helpful advice:
"Pro tip for your [Product Name]: [Specific care instruction]. It’ll keep your product in great shape for longer! Questions? Reply anytime." [12]
You can also share styling tips, setup guides, or other useful information to position your brand as a trusted resource.
Using personalized strategies like these helps create meaningful connections with your customers. By segmenting your audience based on purchase history, preferences, and other data [1], you can deliver messages that feel tailored to each individual. Tools like merge tags and custom fields make it easy to add personal touches, ensuring your communication stands out and resonates [1].
5. Support and Alerts
Once you’ve fine-tuned your promotional and engagement messages, it’s just as important to streamline support and alert communications. These messages play a critical role in maintaining customer trust. When something goes wrong, timely SMS alerts can reassure your customers. Automated, AI-driven alerts ensure they’re updated without requiring manual effort.
System Outage Notifications
No business is immune to technical hiccups. When they occur, being upfront and transparent helps preserve trust. Send immediate alerts like:
"URGENT: We’re currently experiencing a system outage affecting [specific system/service]. Our team is working on it. We’re sorry for the inconvenience."
Keep the message prompt and clear, avoiding overly technical terms that could confuse your audience.
Planned Maintenance Alerts
Let customers know about scheduled downtime well in advance to reduce frustration:
"NOTICE: Scheduled maintenance is planned for {{ Date }} from {{ Time }} to {{ Time }}. During this time, [specific system/service] will be unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience."
Using placeholders like {{ Date }} and {{ Time }} allows you to customize messages for different regions or schedules.
Service Restoration Updates
Once an issue is resolved, follow up to close the loop:
"UPDATE: The issue with [specific system/service] has been resolved. Services are fully restored. If you experience further problems, please contact support."
This reassures customers that everything is back to normal and provides clear instructions for additional support if needed.
Security Alerts
When it comes to account security, immediate action is essential. Notify customers about unusual activity with messages like:
"Security Alert: We detected an unusual login attempt on your account from [Location] at [Time]. If this wasn’t you, please change your password immediately and contact support."
"Setting up alerts for unusual activity is a vital proactive cybersecurity measure that helps you detect unauthorized transactions, logins, or changes to your accounts in real time." - Penetra Cybersecurity [15]
Order Issue Notifications
Transparency is key when there’s a problem with a customer’s order. Notify them promptly:
"Hi [Customer Name], we’ve encountered an issue with order #[Order Number] and are working to resolve it. You’ll receive an update within 24 hours. Have questions? Reply to this message."
Inventory Alerts
Keep customers informed about product availability to encourage purchases:
"Good news, [Customer Name]! The [Product Name] you’ve been waiting for is back in stock. Order now before it sells out: [Product Link]"
Support Ticket Updates
Ensure customers stay informed about their support requests:
"Your support ticket #[Ticket Number] has been updated. Our team has responded. Check your email or log into your account to view the details: [Support Link]."
Why Timing and Clarity Matter
The success of support and alert messages depends on how quickly and clearly they’re delivered. With 74% of people reporting zero unread texts and 45% responding to SMS messages, these communications are likely to be seen and acted upon quickly [14]. To stay prepared, establish clear severity levels for different issues and keep templates ready to deploy as needed.
Conclusion
Effective text messaging is a powerhouse for driving eCommerce success, and these 43 Shopify templates can elevate customer engagement at every stage of the buyer's journey.
These ready-to-use messages ensure consistent, polished communication that makes an impact. With 84% of customers ranking the experience a company provides as equal in importance to its products and services [16], these templates help you deliver meaningful interactions at every touchpoint.
When 90% of customers expect immediate responses to service inquiries [16], having pre-crafted templates allows you to respond instantly. This speed builds trust - an essential factor, as 81% of consumers say they need to trust a brand before making a purchase [18]. Every message you send becomes an opportunity to strengthen that trust and drive conversions.
Personalization at scale is no longer out of reach when you combine these templates with customer data. Since 64% of customers prefer tailored interactions [17], adding personal touches like names, order histories, or preferences to these messages creates stronger connections that lead to sales. The templates provide the foundation, while your insights make each interaction feel personal. Beyond building relationships, these messages also boost efficiency and revenue.
Improved communication also impacts your bottom line. Returning customers spend 67% more than new ones [17], and these templates are designed to nurture those valuable repeat buyers. Whether you're recovering abandoned carts or sending post-purchase follow-ups, each message is crafted to maximize customer lifetime value.
Proactive messaging can even cut support costs by up to 25% [18]. With proven templates for common scenarios, your team can focus on resolving complex issues while automated systems handle routine communications.
Using AI-powered tools like lookfor AI Agent for Shopify makes deploying these templates even easier. Features like behavioral tracking and unified customer profiles ensure messages are sent at the perfect moment and with the right level of personalization. Marketing segmentation tools further refine your outreach, ensuring the right message reaches the right customer.
"Trust is currency in e-commerce." - Kyle VanGoethem, VP of Strategy and Innovation, STORD [18]
Start implementing these templates by addressing your most urgent challenges, whether that’s recovering abandoned carts, improving order updates, or fostering stronger customer relationships. Test different variations, analyze response rates, and tweak your approach based on what resonates with your audience.
Consistency across all customer interactions is key to strengthening your brand. When customers experience clear, helpful communication - whether they’re browsing, making a purchase, or seeking support - you create the seamless experience that turns casual shoppers into loyal advocates. With 89% of online shoppers abandoning brands due to poor customer service [19], these templates ensure every interaction builds confidence instead of undermining it.
These templates are just the starting point. Strategic execution and ongoing optimization will transform them into a tool that drives both customer satisfaction and revenue growth. Use them wisely, measure their performance, and watch as your communication strategy takes your Shopify store to new heights.
FAQs
What steps should Shopify merchants take to comply with regulations like the TCPA and CAN-SPAM Act when using SMS marketing templates?
To meet the requirements of regulations like the TCPA and CAN-SPAM Act, Shopify merchants need to secure clear, written consent from customers before sending any marketing text messages. Be upfront about how often messages will be sent, mention any potential costs involved, and always offer a simple way for customers to opt out.It’s also important to respect customers’ time by only sending messages between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM local time. Additionally, keeping detailed records of customer consent is essential, especially if a compliance audit arises. By following these practices, you can ensure your SMS marketing stays within legal boundaries and helps maintain customer trust.
How can I personalize SMS messages to boost customer engagement and loyalty?
Personalizing SMS messages is one of the most effective ways to connect with customers and strengthen their loyalty to your brand. Start by dividing your audience into smaller groups based on things like their purchase history, preferences, or even location. This way, you can send messages that feel relevant and tailored to what they actually care about.
Incorporate the recipient's name into your messages to make them feel more personal. Go a step further by referencing their past interactions - like suggesting products they’ve browsed or purchased before. You can also offer exclusive discounts or promotions tied to their interests. These small but thoughtful touches not only make your messages more engaging but also help build lasting relationships with your customers.
What are the best ways to use SMS messages to recover abandoned carts and boost sales?
To bring back abandoned carts and boost sales, keep your SMS messages short, friendly, and personal. Use the customer's name, mention the items they left behind, and include a clear call-to-action, like a direct link to finish their purchase. Add a sense of urgency by offering limited-time discounts or pointing out that stock is running low.Timing matters - send the first message a few hours after the cart is abandoned, and if there’s no response, follow up within 24 to 48 hours. Segment your audience to customize messages based on their preferences, but don’t overdo it with too many texts. Respect opt-out requests to maintain trust and stay compliant.
