How to Test Your Squarespace Store Orders Safely: A Complete Guide

By Michael Turner

December 4, 2024 at 10:21 PM

Here's a concise, value-focused guide on executing test orders:

Testing Your Checkout Process

There are two methods to test your store's checkout:

  1. Place and Refund Real Orders (Recommended)
  • Works with credit cards and PayPal
  • Provides authentic checkout experience
  • Allows testing of all features
  • Small processing fee may apply
  1. Use Test Mode
  • Available for Squarespace Payments/Stripe only
  • No fees involved
  • Doesn't affect analytics
  • Perfect for multiple test runs

Prerequisites:

  • At least one product or donation block
  • Shipping options (for physical products)
  • Connected payment processor
  • Active public domain

Testing store without credit card

Testing store without credit card

Method 1: Place and Refund Real Order

  1. Place Order:
  • Add items to cart
  • Complete checkout with real payment
  • Receive confirmation email
  1. Process Refund:
  • Go to Finances > Orders
  • Locate your order
  • Click "..." > Cancel order
  • Refund will process automatically

Method 2: Test Mode

  1. Enable Test Mode:
  • Go to Settings
  • Activate Test Mode
  1. Place Test Order:
  • Add items to cart
  • Use test card: 4242 4242 4242 4242
  • Enter future expiration date
  • Use any 3-digit CVC

Payment and address form

Payment and address form

  1. Clear Test Order:
  • Go to Finances > Orders
  • Find test order
  • Click "Clear test order"
  1. Disable Test Mode:
  • Return to Settings
  • Deactivate Test Mode

Important Notes:

  • Always disable test mode after testing
  • Test orders affect inventory levels
  • Order numbers cannot be reset
  • Analytics count refunded orders
  • Cancel subscription tests promptly
  • Private sites show lock screen instead of confirmation

Fee Breakdown:

  • Squarespace Payments: Full refund minus processing fee
  • PayPal: Full refund minus fixed transaction fee
  • Stripe: Full refund minus transaction fees

If Customers Order During Test Mode:

  1. Deactivate test mode
  2. Delete test order
  3. Restore inventory
  4. Contact customer for reorder

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