Preorders on Shopify — Risks, Chargebacks, Delays, and Headless Setup?

Partner Discussions
1

Hi all,

I currently run a custom-built ecommerce site using Next.js and Supabase, where we support preorders: when a product is out of stock, we mark it as a preorder with a visible ETA and offer a small discount.

I’m planning to move to Shopify (headless) and want to do my due diligence before migrating this flow.

I know Shopify allows preorders in general, but I want to make sure I avoid any risk of store termination, chargebacks, or policy violations. I’d love your thoughts on:

:receipt: General Policy & Risks

  • Are there known risks with doing preorders on Shopify?
  • Can delays or chargebacks lead to account issues or termination?
  • Is there official Shopify documentation outlining risks or expectations for preorder sellers?
  • If I clearly communicate delays and expected ship dates, am I protected?
  • What other factors (besides chargebacks or customer complaints) could cause flags or held payouts?

:hourglass_not_done: Handling Delays

  • If some preorders take 10–20 weeks or more, does that raise red flags?
  • Does Shopify have a fulfillment deadline requirement?

:credit_card: Preorder Payments

  • Is it okay to collect full payment upfront for preorders?
  • Do I need to do anything special to stay compliant when doing this?

:warning: Chargebacks

  • What is Shopify’s stance on chargeback rates?
  • Is the 1% threshold still accurate for account risks or held funds?
  • If I maintain good documentation and clear customer communication, does that help in disputes?

:hammer_and_wrench: Implementation Practices

  • Are there best practices or required tags/flags for marking preorder products or orders?
  • Any risk in having long-term unfulfilled orders in the system?
  • Are there preorder apps that support headless stores?
  • Is using a third-party app required, or can I build my own preorder logic?

:rocket: Shopify Plus

  • Does Shopify Plus offer any flexibility or protection when it comes to preorders, risk reviews, or support?

I’m trying to gather as much insight as possible before committing to a migration. If anyone has personal experience handling preorders, delays, or chargebacks on Shopify, I’d truly appreciate your perspective.

Thanks in advance — happy to return the favor where I can!

2

Hi @devwilliamy

I think for this type of question, you may be best to ask in the merchant forums, where there’s a payments and fulfilment board here: https://community.shopify.com/c/payments-shipping-and/bd-p/payments-shipping-fulfilment