How to Successfully Shop for Items on Pre-Order

Published on August 9, 2025

by Brenda Stolyar

Are you tired of missing out on your favorite items because they always seem to sell out before you have a chance to purchase them? Well, you’re not alone. With the rise of pre-ordering in the fashion and retail industries, snagging the latest and greatest items has become increasingly difficult. But fear not, because in this article, we’ll teach you the insider tips and tricks on how to successfully shop for items on pre-order. By following these simple steps, you’ll never have to experience the disappointment of missing out on a highly coveted pre-order again.How to Successfully Shop for Items on Pre-Order

The Rise of Pre-Ordering

Before we dive into the how-to’s, let’s first understand the why’s. Why has pre-ordering become such a popular trend? Well, for starters, it allows brands to gauge the demand for a particular item before investing in a large-scale production. This means they can avoid overstock and minimize waste, which in turn makes them more environmentally friendly. It also allows for a more personalized shopping experience for consumers, as they have the opportunity to pre-order items in their preferred size, color, and style.

Before You Pre-Order

Do Your Research

Before you hit that pre-order button, it’s important to do your due diligence. Don’t just pre-order an item because it’s trending or because your favorite influencer is wearing it. Make sure you research the brand, the product, and read reviews from other customers. This will give you a better understanding of the quality, sizing, and fit of the item.

Know Your Measurements

This is the key to successful pre-order shopping. Most brands will have a size guide available on their website, so make sure you take your measurements and compare them to the size guide. If you’re in between sizes, always size up as it’s easier to take in an item than to let it out. Remember, every brand has their own sizing, so don’t assume your size from one brand will be the same for another.

During the Pre-Order Period

Be Quick

Pre-ordering is all about timing. Most brands will have a limited quantity available for pre-order, so make sure you act fast. Set a reminder for the pre-order release date and time, and be ready to add the item to your cart and check out as soon as it’s available. This will increase your chances of securing the item before it sells out.

Check the Return Policy

Even with all the research and measurements, there’s always a chance that the pre-ordered item won’t fit or won’t meet your expectations. Before you pre-order, make sure you check the brand’s return policy. Some brands may not allow returns or may only offer store credit, so it’s important to know this beforehand.

After the Pre-Order Period

Be Patient

This is probably the most difficult step in the pre-order process, but patience is key. Pre-ordering means you’ll have to wait for your item to be produced and shipped, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t receive your item right away, remember that good things come to those who wait.

Stay in the Loop

While you wait for your pre-ordered item to arrive, make sure you stay in the loop. Most brands will send out updates on the production and shipping process, so keep an eye on your email or follow the brand’s social media pages for any updates. This will also give you an idea of when to expect your item to arrive.

In Conclusion

Pre-ordering can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, but by following these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to successfully shopping for items on pre-order. Remember, it’s all about doing your research, being quick, and being patient. Happy pre-order shopping!