How to Add Shopify Custom Checkout Fields Code Easily

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Importance of Custom Checkout Fields
3. Adding Custom Checkout Fields in Shopify
4. Conclusion
5. Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

Have you ever wished to gather additional information from your customers during the checkout process on Shopify? Whether it's collecting gift messages, customization details, or more specific delivery instructions, adding custom fields to the checkout can significantly enhance your customer interaction and satisfaction. But how exactly do you implement this on your Shopify store? Let's delve into the ins and outs of adding custom checkout fields with a specific focus on using code.

In this guide, you'll learn how to add custom checkout fields to your Shopify store, the significance of these fields, and how to implement them effectively. This comprehensive tutorial is perfect for those using the Shopify Plus plan and anyone looking to customize their checkout experience deeply.

By the end of this post, you'll have a clear understanding of how to enhance your Shopify checkout process by adding custom fields, along with practical examples and step-by-step coding instructions.

Importance of Custom Checkout Fields

Custom checkout fields can serve a plethora of purposes. For instance, if you're operating a personalized gift store, collecting detailed order specifications directly from the checkout page is crucial. Here’s why these fields are beneficial:

1. Enhancing Customer Experience: Personalized shopping experiences can significantly boost customer satisfaction and loyalty.
2. Improving Order Accuracy: Collecting specific customer requests at checkout ensures that orders are fulfilled accurately, reducing errors and returns.
3. Gathering Essential Data: Additional fields allow you to gather necessary information that isn't covered by standard Shopify fields, such as special delivery instructions or product customization details.

Now that we understand the importance, let's move forward with how to implement these custom fields.

Adding Custom Checkout Fields in Shopify

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Access Your Shopify Theme Code

   • Navigate to your Shopify Admin dashboard.
   • Go to Online Store > Themes.
   • Click Actions > Edit Code.

2. Locate the Relevant Theme Files

   • In the theme code editor, search for the main-product.js file. This JavaScript file typically handles form submissions and product logic on the product page.
   • Alternatively, custom fields can sometimes be added in the checkout.liquid file, but this file is exclusive to Shopify Plus plan users.

3. Add JavaScript for Custom Fields

   • In main-product.js or any other relevant JavaScript file, add the following code snippet to create the custom field:

   document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function() {
       var checkoutForm = document.querySelector('form[action*="/cart"]');
       if (checkoutForm) {
           var customField = document.createElement('input');
           customField.setAttribute('type', 'text');
           customField.setAttribute('name', 'custom_message');
           customField.setAttribute('placeholder', 'Enter your custom message here');
           checkoutForm.appendChild(customField);
       }
   });
   

   This script adds a custom input field to the checkout form.

4. Ensure the Field Value is Passed to the Order

   • To ensure that the data from the custom field is passed along with the order, you may need to modify the cart data-fragment:

   function addToCart(form) {
       var customMessage = form.querySelector('input[name="custom_message"]').value;
       var formData = new FormData(form);
       if (customMessage) {
           formData.append('custom_message', customMessage);
       }
   
       fetch('/cart/add.js', {
           method: 'POST',
           body: formData,
       })
       .then(response => response.json())
       .then(data => {
           window.location.href = '/checkout';
       })
       .catch(error => console.error('Error:', error));
   }
   

   This function appends the custom message to the cart payload.

5. Update Your Theme's CSS for Better Presentation

   • Don't forget to add corresponding CSS rules in your theme’s CSS file to style the custom field accordingly:

   input[name="custom_message"] {
       width: 100%;
       padding: 10px;
       margin: 10px 0;
       border: 1px solid #ddd;
       box-sizing: border-box;
   }
   

Additional Tips

• Testing: Always test the checkout process thoroughly after making changes to ensure everything works as expected.
• Backup: Before editing any theme files, create a backup of your current theme to revert back if any issues arise.
• Permissions: If you’re not comfortable with coding or need advanced customizations, consider hiring a Shopify expert or developer.

Handling Non-Plus Stores

For Shopify stores not on the Plus plan, one workaround is to add custom fields to the cart page instead. Here is how you can do it:

1. Modify the Cart Template

   • Go to Sections > cart-template.liquid.

2. Insert Custom Field Code

   • Insert a custom input field within the form in this template:

   <div class="custom-field">
       <label for="custom_message">Custom Message:</label>
       <input type="text" id="custom_message" name="custom_message" placeholder="Enter your custom message here" />
   </div>
   

3. Update the Cart Form Handling

   • Ensure the field value is passed when the cart is updated by customizing the form handling code.

Conclusion

Adding custom checkout fields to your Shopify store can significantly enhance the customer experience and order accuracy. Whether you belong to the Shopify Plus plan or a standard plan, this guide provides detailed code snippets and instructions to help you customize your checkout effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add custom checkout fields without Shopify Plus?

Custom fields can be added to the cart page for non-Plus plans. Custom checkout fields require Shopify Plus to access the checkout.liquid file.

What are some use cases for custom checkout fields?

Use cases include gathering gift messages, special delivery instructions, unique product customizations, and more.

How do I ensure my changes won't break the checkout?

Always back up your current theme before making changes and test thoroughly to ensure everything works as expected.

Can I remove custom checkout fields if I no longer need them?

Yes, simply remove the corresponding code from your theme files to eliminate custom fields you no longer need.

Are there apps that can add custom checkout fields without coding?

Yes, several apps in the Shopify App Store can offer this functionality for those who prefer not to handle code directly.

By following this guide, you now have the tools to add custom checkout fields to your Shopify store, enhancing both functionality and customer satisfaction.