Designing Your First Abandoned Cart Flows

Designing Your First Abandoned Cart Flows

Abandoned cart flows are among the most effective automations in eCommerce. Around 70% of users add something to their cart and leave without buying. That is a massive opportunity - if you have a structured flow to bring them back.

This guide walks you through the key elements of setting up your first abandoned cart messaging flow. Whether you are sending emails, SMS, or WhatsApp messages, the principles are the same: remind, motivate, and convert.

Why Use Abandoned Cart Flows?

When someone abandons their cart, they are not lost - they are on pause. A well-designed flow helps you restart that journey. And because the intent is already high, this type of messaging typically drives the highest revenue per recipient of all your automations.

Start with a Simple Flow

Even one message is better than none, but for best results, set up a short sequence:

  1. Reminder – Trigger after 1 hour to nudge the shopper.

  2. Follow-Up – Send 12 hours later to add urgency or benefits.

  3. Final Push – After 24 hours, consider adding an incentive.

Key Elements to Include

1. Subject Line or Message Hook

Create urgency or curiosity.

Try lines like:

  • "You left something behind"

  • "Still thinking it over?"

  • "This item is almost gone"

2. Product Image

Show exactly what the user added to their cart. This reconnects them emotionally and helps them remember why they considered the purchase.

3. Call to Action

Make it obvious and easy to act.

Examples:

  • "Complete My Order"

  • "Go to My Cart"

  • "Buy Now"

Place the CTA close to the product image for best effect.

4. Smart Timing

You want to be quick - but not annoying. Spread the messages across the first 24 hours after abandonment. Monitor open and click rates to refine timing.

5. Support and Contact Options

Sometimes users drop off because of simple questions.

Include contact methods like:

  • Live chat

  • Email or call support

  • FAQ links

Removing friction is often all it takes.

Use Design to Drive Action

Whether you are using email, SMS, RCS, or WhatsApp, keep these design principles in mind:

ElementBest Practice
LayoutClean and focused on one action
VisualsUse product image only - avoid clutter
Message LengthShort, scannable, and easy to understand
CTA PlacementHigh on the page and close to the product image
ToneFriendly, helpful - not too pushy

Build Once, Recover Revenue Daily

Designing your first abandoned cart flows does not need to be complicated. Use a simple 2–3 step sequence, focus on message clarity, and personalise where possible.

Once set up, this flow runs on autopilot - boosting conversions and recovering lost revenue every day.

Did you find the article and topic interesting?

If you would like to explore the subject further, discuss ideas, or understand how it could apply to your business, we are here to continue the conversation.

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