Cart abandonment is an all-too-common issue, with potential customers often leaving items behind without completing their purchase. For WooCommerce store owners, these abandoned carts translate to lost revenue and missed opportunities.
A recent study by the Baymard Institute found the average cart abandonment rate in 2024 is 70.1%. This means a substantial portion of potential sales are lost when customers leave items in their carts without completing their purchase.
So, what if there was an easy way to bring many of those lost customers back and recover those missed sales? WooCommerce abandoned cart plugins can significantly boost sales by automating the process of reaching out to these would-be customers. With the right plugin, you can send timely recovery emails, reminders and incentives to encourage customers to return and finish their purchase.
In 2024, there are a variety of feature-rich plugins designed specifically to tackle cart abandonment on WooCommerce sites. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the best plugins for WooCommerce abandoned cart recovery.
What to look for in a WooCommerce abandoned cart plugin
When choosing the right WooCommerce abandoned cart plugin, you’ll want to focus on features that directly support your recovery strategy and enhance the customer experience. Here’s a breakdown of what to prioritize:
Email automation and customization
The core of any abandoned cart recovery is email. Look for a plugin that automates this process effectively. Automated emails save time by reaching out to customers without manual effort, but customization is equally crucial. The best plugins allow you to personalize subject lines, messages and timing. Tailored emails that address the customer by name or highlight specific items they left behind create a more engaging, persuasive experience that can help pull them back to complete their purchase.
Multi-channel support
While email is essential, many customers respond better through other channels like SMS and push notifications. A plugin with multi-channel support lets you reach customers where they’re most likely to respond. SMS messages can deliver a sense of urgency, while push notifications on mobile devices offer an instant nudge to return to the cart. Multi-channel options ensure your outreach feels seamless and flexible, helping you capture attention even if one method fails to get through.
Detailed analytics and reporting
Understanding the success of your cart recovery efforts is key to refining your approach. A plugin with robust analytics and reporting provides insights into open rates, click-through rates and conversion rates for your recovery messages. You’ll also want to track patterns in abandonment—knowing when and where guest users leave can guide you to adjust your checkout process. Detailed reporting helps you see what’s working and what isn’t, enabling smarter, data-driven decisions.
Integration with CRM and marketing tools
A good WooCommerce abandoned cart plugin should work with your existing tools. Look for plugins that integrate smoothly with CRM software and marketing platforms, helping you create a seamless customer journey from start to finish. With CRM integration, you can keep track of customer interactions and preferences, giving you a complete view of their behavior. This makes it easier to tailor future campaigns and build stronger relationships, especially with returning customers who might abandon their carts more than once.
Affordability and scalability
While powerful features are essential, affordability matters too. Compare pricing models and look for plugins that offer flexibility based on your needs. Some plugins charge per recovery or include limited free options, which can be ideal for smaller stores. If you’re looking to grow, scalability is equally important—choose a plugin that can handle increasing traffic and customer volume as your business expands. A plugin that grows with your store helps you maximize ROI without switching tools down the line.
Best WooCommerce abandoned cart plugins
Recovering abandoned carts can make a significant difference in your WooCommerce store’s revenue. Here are the top abandoned cart plugins to help you re-engage customers and reduce lost sales.
YITH WooCommerce recovers abandoned cart
YITH WooCommerce Recover Abandoned Cart is a great tool that helps you reconnect with lost customers. This plugin automatically sends reminders to customers who have left items in their carts, encouraging them to complete their purchases. Small to medium-sized businesses and WooCommerce store owners who want a straightforward, powerful solution for cart recovery. This plugin is perfect if you’re looking to increase your sales without the complexity of a multi-channel tool.
Key features:
- Automatic email reminders to recover abandoned carts
- Customizable email templates for a personal touch
- Detailed analytics to track recovery performance
- Simple interface, making it easy for beginners
Pros:
- Simple setup with no coding required. The straightforward design makes it easy to use, but it’s effective enough to see real improvements in abandoned cart recovery.
- Customizable emails allow branding. Email templates can be tailored for a personal touch, making follow-up messages more engaging.
- YITH offers insightful data that gives you a solid understanding of your campaign performance.
Cons:
- Limited to email as a recovery channel, so it may lack flexibility if you’re looking to expand to SMS or push notifications.
- Some advanced features are only available in the premium version, limiting functionality in the free version.
Pricing:
Starting at $79.99 per year, which provides full access to the plugin’s premium features.
Retainful
Retainful is known for its easy setup and comprehensive cart recovery features. It automates follow-up emails, helping you recover abandoned carts effortlessly. It is good for stores of all sizes, especially those looking to automate and optimize cart recovery sequences without much hassle.
Key features:
- Abandoned cart email sequences for better reach
- One-click recovery link in emails
- Ability to offer discount codes within recovery emails
- Post-purchase features like next-order coupons
Pros:
- Simple setup with a user-friendly interface
- Customizable abandoned cart sequences
- Includes tools for incentivizing future purchases
Cons:
- Limited design customization for emails
- Certain advanced features locked in premium plans
Pricing:
Retainful offers a free version with basic features. Premium plans start at $19 per month.
CartFlows
CartFlows combines checkout optimization with abandoned cart recovery, making it a great choice for businesses focused on boosting conversions. Businesses looking to maximize conversions through a combination of checkout optimization and cart recovery can opt for this.
Key features:
- Customizable sales funnels and optimized checkout pages
- Abandoned cart email sequences
- Drag-and-drop builder for easy setup
- Split testing for different checkout designs
Pros:
- Offers powerful checkout customization
- Includes funnel building and split testing
- Optimized for high conversion rates
Cons:
- More complex setup than basic recovery tools
- Higher price point compared to other plugins
Pricing:
CartFlows starts at $239 per year.
Omnisend
Omnisend is a multi-channel marketing tool with strong abandoned cart recovery features, ideal for larger campaigns. It is suited for medium to large stores with bigger marketing campaigns and a need for multi-channel communication.
Key features:
- Supports email, SMS and push notifications for multi-channel reach
- Automated workflows for cart recovery and other events
- Advanced segmentation to target specific customer groups
- Pre-built templates and drag-and-drop editor
Pros:
- Multi-channel support to reach customers in various ways
- Advanced targeting and segmentation options
- High customizability with easy-to-use templates
Cons:
- May be overkill for smaller stores with limited budgets
- Pricing can become expensive with advanced features
Pricing:
Omnisend offers a free plan for basic email marketing. Paid plans for additional features start at $16 per month.
Jilt (now part of WP Engine)
Recently acquired by WP Engine, Jilt is a robust tool for abandoned cart recovery, particularly known for its advanced email customization. It is ideal for stores looking for a more advanced email solution, particularly those already using WP Engine.
Key features:
- Automated abandoned cart emails with full customization
- Campaign analytics to track performance
- GDPR-compliant and data protection features
- Multi-language support for international stores
Pros:
- Highly customizable email templates
- Strong analytics for campaign insights
- Multi-language support for broader reach
Cons:
- No longer available as a standalone plugin (only within WP Engine ecosystem)
- Limited customer support options for new users
Pricing:
Pricing depends on WP Engine’s hosting plans.
HubSpot for WooCommerce
HubSpot for WooCommerce offers a blend of CRM features with cart recovery, ideal for stores that want to integrate marketing and customer data. Larger stores or businesses already using HubSpot, looking for integrated CRM and marketing automation can opt for this plugin.
Key features:
- Integrates directly with HubSpot’s CRM
- Abandoned cart recovery emails and workflows
- Customer segmentation for targeted campaigns
- Marketing automation tools for follow-up
Pros:
- Combines CRM and cart recovery in one tool
- Offers robust customer segmentation
- Good for stores with complex customer journey tracking
Cons:
- Requires familiarity with HubSpot’s platform
- Premium HubSpot plans can be costly
Pricing:
HubSpot for WooCommerce is free, but advanced features require paid HubSpot plans.
Abandoned cart lite for WooCommerce
Abandoned Cart Lite for WooCommerce is a free option offering basic recovery features, perfect for stores new to cart recovery. Small businesses or startups on a budget that need a simple tool for basic recovery can opt for this plugin.
Key features:
- Automated email reminders for abandoned carts
- Easy email template customization
- Dashboard to track recovery performance
- Basic analytics included
Pros:
- Free, with essential recovery features
- User-friendly for beginners
- Covers basic email automation needs
Cons:
- Limited to email-only reminders
- Few advanced customization options
Pricing:
Free, with a premium version available for advanced features.
WooCommerce cart abandonment recovery by CartBounty
CartBounty is a powerful tool with in-depth tracking and email options, helping you capture and recover lost sale effectively. Businesses of all sizes needing a powerful, real-time solution for WooCommerce abandoned cart recovery with high flexibility in email options can choose this plugin.
Key features:
- Real-time cart tracking to capture abandoned carts instantly
- Customizable email templates and sequences
- GDPR compliance for data protection
- Exit-intent popups to prevent abandonment
Pros:
- Real-time tracking provides immediate insights
- GDPR compliance makes it suitable for EU stores
- Strong customization for email reminders
Cons:
- More expensive than basic options
- Some advanced features require a learning curve
Pricing:
CartBounty starts at $29 per year for the basic plan.
How to choose the right plugin for your store
With so many abandoned cart plugins available, finding the right one for your store can feel overwhelming. The choice depends on your store’s specific needs, budget and customer engagement strategy. Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider when making your selection.
Email automation and customization
Automated email reminders are at the heart of cart recovery. But how customizable are those emails? A plugin with strong email automation helps you connect with customers at just the right time, without needing manual intervention. Look for options that let you personalize the subject line, message and timing. Adding your brand’s voice and relevant incentives can make a big difference in engagement rates.
Tip: Choose a plugin that allows A/B testing so you can see what email strategies work best with your customers.
Multi-channel support
Email isn’t always enough. Many plugins now offer SMS and push notifications for more comprehensive reach. These additional channels are especially useful if your store targets a younger audience or customers who prefer mobile engagement. Multi-channel support can also help keep your messages visible, even if customers miss the initial email.
Tip: If your audience is diverse, multi-channel plugins can significantly boost recovery rates by reaching customers where they’re most active.
Detailed analytics and reporting
Data matters when it comes to understanding your recovery efforts. Some plugins offer simple recovery counts, while others dive deep into metrics, including open rates, click-throughs and conversion rates. Detailed reporting helps you see which strategies are working and which aren’t, allowing you to adjust your approach over time.
Tip: If you plan to scale, look for a plugin with robust analytics that provides insights beyond basic tracking.
Integration with CRM and marketing tools
Integration can be a game-changer for businesses that rely on multiple marketing channels and customer relationship management (CRM) tools. Some plugins work well within the WooCommerce environment, while others integrate with platforms like HubSpot, Mailchimp or Zapier. These integrations allow you to unify your recovery strategy with your broader marketing efforts, creating a seamless experience.
Tip: If you already use a CRM or marketing automation tool, consider a plugin that integrates directly with it to streamline customer data and recovery efforts.
Affordability and scalability
Your plugin should fit both your budget and future goals. Free or low-cost plugins often provide basic recovery features, which may be enough for smaller stores. But as your store grows, you may need advanced options like multi-channel support and enhanced analytics. Invest in a plugin that can grow with your business without requiring a full platform switch later.
Tip: Look for plugins with flexible pricing models or tiered plans that allow you to scale without overspending upfront.
Ease of use and support
A plugin that’s too complex can waste your time and may never be used to its full potential. Consider the user interface and how easy it is to navigate. Reliable customer support is also essential, especially for technical troubleshooting or campaign guidance. Some plugins offer live chat or 24/7 support, while others rely on forums and documentation.
Tip: Read user reviews to get a sense of how easy it is to set up and manage the plugin in a real-world environment.
Compliance and data privacy
Abandoned cart recovery often involves handling customer data, so compliance with privacy laws like GDPR is essential. Many plugins offer built-in GDPR compliance, ensuring customer data is handled securely and legally. Make sure any plugin you choose aligns with your region’s data protection standards, especially if you serve customers in Europe.
Tip: If you operate internationally, opt for plugins that openly address GDPR and other data privacy regulations.
Solving common issues with abandoned cart plugins
Common issues and troubleshooting
Abandoned cart plugins are valuable tools, but they can come with challenges. Here’s a look at some of the most common issues and practical troubleshooting steps to keep your recovery efforts running smoothly.
Emails not sending
One of the most frustrating issues is when recovery emails fail to send. This can happen for several reasons, from plugin misconfiguration to email server problems.
Troubleshooting tips:
- Check plugin settings: Make sure your plugin is configured correctly to send emails at the right times. Verify that the sending schedule is active and that the email templates are complete.
- Verify email server settings: Sometimes, the issue lies with the email server. Ensure that your hosting provider allows automated emails and that the correct SMTP settings are in place.
- Check for conflicts: Other plugins, particularly email marketing or SMTP plugins, may interfere with abandoned cart reminder emails. Try disabling other plugins temporarily to see if the emails go through.
Emails going to spam
Even if your emails are sending, they may end up in customers’ spam folders, reducing your recovery chances. Spam filtering can occur due to factors like content, sender reputation or lack of authentication.
Troubleshooting tips:
- Optimize email content: Avoid spammy words and phrases in your subject lines and email body. Keeping your emails concise and professional reduces the likelihood of spam filtering.
- Set up DKIM and SPF: Ensure your emails are authenticated with DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) and SPF (Sender Policy Framework). This shows email providers that the emails are legitimate.
- Monitor sender reputation: If you’re sending a large volume of emails, your IP reputation may impact deliverability. Consider using a reputable email service provider to improve this.
Plugin conflicts
WooCommerce stores often use multiple plugins, which can sometimes conflict with abandoned cart recovery tools. Conflicts may cause errors, prevent emails from sending or even disable certain plugin features.
Troubleshooting tips:
- Disable and test plugins: Disable all plugins except WooCommerce and your abandoned cart plugin. Gradually re-enable each plugin, testing the abandoned cart plugin after each step. This will help you identify any conflicts.
- Check compatibility documentation: Many plugin developers list known compatibility issues. Check their documentation to see if any of your other plugins might be causing problems.
- Contact support: If you can’t identify the issue, reach out to the plugin’s support team. They may have specific guidance for handling conflicts with other popular plugins.
Recovery emails not converting
Sometimes, emails are sent, but customers still don’t complete their purchases. Low conversion rates can result from poor email timing, irrelevant content or an unattractive offer.
Troubleshooting tips:
- Test email timing: Sending recovery emails too soon or too late can affect results. Try experimenting with different timing intervals, like 1 hour, 6 hours or 24 hours after abandonment, to see what works best for your customers.
- Enhance email content: Make sure your emails are engaging and relevant. Include product images, personalized recommendations and a clear call to action. Adding a discount or free shipping offer can also increase conversion rates.
- Review your offer: If you’re using incentives but still see low conversions, the offer might not be appealing enough. Try offering a slightly larger discount or a limited-time promotion to encourage faster responses.
Inaccurate analytics or tracking issues
If your plugin’s analytics don’t match up with your actual cart abandonment and recovery numbers, it can be hard to gauge the plugin’s effectiveness. Tracking issues may result from a setup error or a problem with your analytics tools.
Troubleshooting tips:
- Review tracking settings: Ensure the plugin’s tracking features are properly set up and that the correct checkout page and cart pages are included in the tracking.
- Cross-check with other tools: Compare your plugin’s data with your WooCommerce or Google Analytics reports. This can help you spot any discrepancies or determine if another tool is causing the issue.
- Clear cache and test: Sometimes, cached data can interfere with tracking accuracy. Clear your website cache and test the cart abandonment process to see if the analytics update correctly.
GDPR and data privacy issues
If your store serves customers in the EU or other regions with strict data privacy laws, compliance is essential. Some plugins may lack built-in GDPR features, making it challenging to stay compliant.
Troubleshooting tips:
- Enable GDPR settings: Many plugins have GDPR compliance settings that allow you to collect consent before sending emails. Make sure these options are activated.
- Add a privacy notice: Clearly inform customers on your cart and checkout pages about data usage related to abandoned cart emails.
- Consult legal resources: If you’re uncertain about compliance, consult resources or legal counsel specializing in data privacy laws to ensure you’re handling data appropriately.
Best practices for plugin usage and optimization
Using an abandoned cart plugin can help you reclaim lost sales, but optimizing it can make a big difference in your results. Here are some best practices to ensure your plugin is working at its full potential.
Customize email content for a personal touch
Generic emails don’t get much attention. Personalizing your abandoned cart emails can make customers feel valued, increasing the chance they’ll return to complete their purchase. Use the customer’s name and mention the specific items left in their cart. Adding product images and short descriptions helps jog their memory and re-engages their interest.
Keep the email friendly, concise and professional. Too much information can overwhelm readers; focus on reminding them of what they left behind.
Experiment with email timing and frequency
Timing is key in cart recovery. An email sent too soon may feel intrusive, while one sent too late might lose its impact. Start by sending a reminder within the first hour, then a second reminder after 24 hours if they haven’t returned. Some plugins allow you to set up multiple reminders at different intervals—use this feature to experiment with timing until you find what works best.
Don’t overwhelm customers with too many emails. Three reminders spaced out over a few days is usually enough.
Use incentives to encourage completion
Offering incentives like a discount or free shipping can give customers the nudge they need to complete their purchase. An effective approach is to offer a small incentive in the first reminder and a slightly better one in the final reminder. This creates a sense of urgency and shows customers that they’re valued.
Use urgency sparingly. Phrasing like “only for the next 24 hours” or “exclusive offer just for you” can help without feeling too pushy.
Optimize for mobile devices
Many customers browse and shop on mobile devices, so make sure your abandoned cart emails look good on mobile. Check that images load quickly, text is easy to read and the layout isn’t cluttered. A responsive design helps ensure that customers have a smooth experience, no matter the device they’re using.
Before launching your campaign, preview your emails on both desktop and mobile to confirm they’re mobile-friendly.
Include a clear call-to-action (CTA)
Every email should include a clear call-to-action button, such as “Return to Cart” or “Complete Your Order.” The CTA should stand out visually, guiding customers directly back to their shopping cart. Avoid multiple CTAs that could distract or confuse them. Keep it simple and straightforward.
Use action-oriented language, like “Continue Shopping” or “Finish Checkout,” to make the CTA inviting and engaging.
Track and analyze performance metrics
Most plugins offer analytics to show how your recovery efforts are performing. Pay attention to metrics like open rates, click-through rates and conversion rates. This data helps you understand what’s working and where there’s room for improvement. Use these insights to refine your email timing, content and incentives.
Set regular intervals to review performance metrics, such as weekly or monthly, to keep track of progress and adjust strategies as needed.
Segment your audience for targeted emails
Segmenting allows you to send more tailored messages based on customer behavior. For example, high-value customers might respond well to exclusive discounts, while first-time visitors may need a simple reminder. Audience segmentation lets you speak to each group in a way that resonates best, boosting your recovery rates.
Use plugin tools to group customers by cart value, frequency of cart abandonment or other relevant factors.
Test different email elements
A/B testing different elements of your emails can reveal what works best for your audience. Test subject lines, email content, CTAs and incentives. Small changes can have a big impact on open rates and conversions. Run these tests one element at a time to identify what’s driving the best results.
Start with subject line tests to improve open rates, then move on to other elements for further optimization.
Ensure compliance with data privacy regulations
Abandoned cart emails often involve personal customer data, so it’s crucial to stay compliant with privacy laws like GDPR. Many plugins have settings that allow you to manage data privacy features. Make sure your emails include an option for customers to unsubscribe and handle all data according to legal guidelines.
If your customers are international, double-check compliance with relevant privacy laws to avoid any issues.
Keep your plugin updated
Regular plugin updates often include new features, bug fixes and security improvements. By keeping your abandoned cart plugin updated, you’ll ensure you have access to the latest tools and that your recovery efforts stay effective and secure. Check your plugin settings to enable automatic updates or set reminders to update it manually.
Before updating, review the change log to understand what’s included in the update and avoid any potential compatibility issues.
Related Post: 30+ Business Email Etiquette Rules That Every Professional Should Know
Bottom line
Abandoned cart plugins are essential for reclaiming lost sales and maximizing revenue. Choosing the right one depends on your store’s size, budget and specific needs. If you’re looking for a reliable hosting solution to support your WooCommerce site, Bluehost provides optimized hosting with great performance and support. For easy cart recovery, YITH WooCommerce Recover Abandoned Cart is a top choice, offering easy-to-use tools for re-engaging customers.
By personalizing emails, testing timings and tracking results, you can turn abandoned carts into completed sales, boosting both revenue and customer satisfaction.
FAQs on WooCommerce abandoned cart plugins
They track abandoned cart details and send automated reminders through emails or messages to encourage checkout. Try YITH WooCommerce Recover Abandoned Cart for a simple, effective solution.
Free plugins offer basic features, but premium ones provide more advanced options for better recovery results.
Two to three follow-ups work best—start with one hour, then 24 hours and a final reminder after a few days.
Yes, most are mobile-friendly. Look for plugins with responsive design if you have many mobile users.
Yes, many have GDPR features, like consent checkboxes and opt-out options in messages.