The most reliable ways to raise average order value are bundles and sets, a free-shipping threshold set just above your typical order, a one-tap add-on in the cart, and a post-purchase upsell. Lead your ads with bundles rather than single products, because the bundle carries a higher break-even CPA.
Why AOV matters for ads
If your break-even CPA is $35 on a $45 product and $50 on a $75 bundle, leading with the bundle gives Meta $15 more room on every order.
Six proven tactics
- Bundles and sets: curated pairs or routines at a small saving.
- Free-shipping threshold: set it 15 to 30% above your current AOV.
- Cart add-ons: one-tap, low-cost, high-margin items.
- Post-purchase upsell: offered after payment, no friction to the first sale.
- Volume pricing: buy two, save more, for consumables.
- Gift with purchase above a spend level.
Find your cluster first
Export order values from Shopify and group them. If many orders sit just under your free-shipping line, a progress bar and add-on will move them. Model it with the AOV calculator.
Free shipping and AOV calculator
Frequently asked questions
What is a good average order value?
It depends on your products. What matters is whether your AOV supports your acquisition cost. Raise it until your break-even CPA comfortably exceeds your actual CPA.
Do free shipping thresholds increase AOV?
Yes, when set slightly above typical order values and shown clearly in the cart with progress messaging.
Are post-purchase upsells worth it?
Usually. They add revenue after the main purchase is complete, so they don't risk the first sale.
Written by Shimeez Bok, founder of Growth Alchemy, an ecommerce growth studio in Auckland, New Zealand.
