Want higher AOV? Start by picking the right upsell strategy—one that actually converts.
Upsell tactics that boost your AOV
Choose upsells based on customer buying patterns, not just what you want to promote
1
Offer a free item when a shopper’s cart hits a target value.
• Stores with low-cost or small giftable items
• Brands with stable margins (you’re not discounting core products)
• Offer a free mini cleanser at $60+ (cosmetics)
• Unlock a free snack after $50 (food)
• Give away socks at $100 (apparel)
Free gift upsell in action
2
Perfect for product pairings & higher-margin items
• Complementary products that pair well together
• High-margin items you want to promote without steep discounts
• Buy a full-priced shirt, get 20% off jeans
• Add a second skincare item at 30% off when purchasing a cleanser
• Get 50% off branded glassware when buying a bottle of whiskey
Buy X get Y upsell in action
3
Let shoppers mix and match items into a bundle. The more they add, the more they save, a dynamic way to increase AOV while giving customers control.
• Shoppers who want personalization
• Products with many variations or types
• Create a custom skin care bundle
• Mix and match 5+ snacks for 15% off
• Personalize your own tea box with 20% off
Bundle builder in action
4
Encourage shoppers to buy more units of the same product by lowering the per-item price. Ideal for fast-moving, high-repeat items like snacks, skincare, or candles.
• Products bought in multiples
• High-repeat purchase items
• Buy 4 candles and save 15%
• Get 10% off when ordering 3 protein bars
• Buy 5 bags of coffee at once and save $10
Product volume discount in action
5
Increase AOV by offering cart-wide discounts as shoppers spend more (e.g., 10% off over $100). This tactic nudges people to keep adding without pushing specific products.
• Stores with a wide range of products
• Brands avoiding discounts on core items
• Spend €100 to get 10% off, €150 for 15%, and €200 for 20%
• Save €20 on all orders above €160
Order volume discount in action
6
Help shoppers discover complementary or often-bought-together items based on what’s already in their cart. This tactic nudges impulse buys and raises AOV without offering discounts.
• Products commonly purchased together
• Stores with a large product catalog
• These socks pair well with your shoes
• You might also like these hoodies
• Other customers also enjoy these hats
Product recommendation in action
