# How to Display Free Shipping in Your WooCommerce Header: A Beginner’s Guide
WooCommerce is a fantastic platform, but sometimes getting the little things just right can be tricky. One such detail that can significantly boost conversions is prominently displaying free shipping in your header. This article will guide you through how to do exactly that, even if you’re a complete newbie to coding.
Why Display Free Shipping in the Header?
Before we dive into the technical aspects, let’s understand the *why*. Think about it: free shipping is a powerful incentive. Seeing it immediately, right at the top of your page, can significantly influence a customer’s decision to make a purchase. It’s a visual cue that subtly (or not so subtly!) whispers, “Buy from us – it’s cheaper!”
Imagine browsing Amazon. One of the first things you see is their Prime shipping information. That’s because they know the power of prominent display. You should too!
Methods to Display Free Shipping in Your WooCommerce Header
There are several ways to achieve this, ranging from simple plugin solutions to custom code. We’ll explore both, starting with the easiest options.
Method 1: Using a WooCommerce Plugin (Easiest Option)
The simplest approach is to leverage a plugin. Many plugins offer features to customize your header, including displaying free shipping notifications. Search the WordPress plugin repository for terms like “WooCommerce header notices” or “WooCommerce free shipping bar.”
Advantages:
- Easy to install and configure: Most plugins offer user-friendly interfaces.
- No coding required: Perfect for non-developers.
- Often include additional features: Some plugins may offer other header customization options.
- Potential for conflicts: A plugin might clash with your theme or other plugins.
- Cost: While many are free, some offer premium versions with more features.
Disadvantages:
Method 2: Using Custom Code (For Developers or Tech-Savvy Users)
If you’re comfortable with code (or have a developer), you can add the free shipping message directly to your theme’s header.php file. This offers more control but requires careful implementation.
#### Understanding the Code
This approach involves adding a snippet of PHP code to your theme’s header.php file. This code checks if free shipping is available based on WooCommerce settings and cart contents. Warning: Always back up your files before making any code changes!
Here’s a sample code snippet (you’ll need to adjust it to fit your theme’s structure):
<?php /**
add_action( ‘woocommerce_before_main_content’, ‘show_free_shipping_message’ );
?>
This code does the following:
- `show_free_shipping_message()`: This function checks if the cart has items, needs shipping, and if the shipping total is zero (meaning free shipping).
- `WC()->cart->get_cart_contents_count() > 0`: Checks if there are items in the cart.
- `WC()->cart->needs_shipping()`: Checks if shipping is required for the cart contents.
- `WC()->cart->get_shipping_total() == 0`: Checks if the shipping cost is zero.
- `echo ‘
‘;`:
If all conditions are met, it displays the “FREE SHIPPING!” message within a div. - `add_action( ‘woocommerce_before_main_content’, ‘show_free_shipping_message’ );`: This adds the function to the `woocommerce_before_main_content` action hook, placing the message before the main content area.
Remember: You’ll need to locate your theme’s `header.php` file via your FTP client and carefully add this code within the appropriate section. You might also need to add CSS to style the `.free-shipping-message` div to match your site’s design.
#### Important Considerations:
- Theme Compatibility: This code might need adjustments depending on your theme’s structure.
- CSS Styling: You’ll likely need to add custom CSS to style the message (font, color, size, etc.)
- Testing: Thoroughly test the code after adding it to ensure it works correctly and doesn’t break your site.
Choosing the Right Method
The best method depends on your technical skills and comfort level. If you’re not comfortable with coding, a plugin is the safest and easiest option. If you’re comfortable with code and want more control, the custom code approach provides greater flexibility. Remember, always back up your website before making any significant changes!
By prominently displaying free shipping in your WooCommerce header, you’ll create a more enticing shopping experience and potentially boost your sales. Good luck!