# How to Avoid Common Mistakes on your Online Checkout Page

**Table of Contents**  
1. [Process too long](https://blog.saleslayer.com/how-to-avoid-online-checkout-page-common-mistakes#long)  
2. [Requirement to create an account](https://blog.saleslayer.com/how-to-avoid-online-checkout-page-common-mistakes#account)  
3. [Need to type everything in](https://blog.saleslayer.com/how-to-avoid-online-checkout-page-common-mistakes#type)  
4. [Unexpected shipping costs](https://blog.saleslayer.com/how-to-avoid-online-checkout-page-common-mistakes#costs)  
5. [Hidden returns policy](https://blog.saleslayer.com/how-to-avoid-online-checkout-page-common-mistakes#returns)  
6. [Limited payment methods](https://blog.saleslayer.com/how-to-avoid-online-checkout-page-common-mistakes#payment)  
7. [Absence of security certificates](https://blog.saleslayer.com/how-to-avoid-online-checkout-page-common-mistakes#certificate)  
8. [Blocked shopping cart](https://blog.saleslayer.com/how-to-avoid-online-checkout-page-common-mistakes#cart)  
9. [Chat unavailable](https://blog.saleslayer.com/how-to-avoid-online-checkout-page-common-mistakes#chat)

The purchase checkout is a critical moment for online conversions in ecommerce and involves gaining or losing a loyal customer. It should be an **easy, user-friendly and streamlined process that is part of a flawless shopping experience**.

## Too many steps, fields and windows

Nowadays, browsing an online store is usually quite time-consuming. The big advantage of online shopping is speed. That is why your **checkout must be streamlined, simple and user-friendly**. In fact, shoppers prefer a process that is separated into blocks, even if it involves a number of steps.  
**Tip:** Display a progress bar or indicator at your checkout.

## Requirement to create an account

Always provide an option for payment as a guest or without registration. This is important for time and privacy.  
**Tip**: Mark the option for checkout without registration as default.

## The need to type EVERYTHING in

Utilize a **drop-down list of mailing address suggestions** to minimize user typing.  
**Tip:** Activate the option for correction suggestions in your form fields.

## Unexpected shipping costs

Include a **table of fixed costs** both in the FAQ section and in each product sheet.  
**Tip:** Include a drop-down or pop-up summary of the current basket on each page of your website.

## Hidden returns policy

Allen many online shoppers wish to view your returns policy before purchasing. Make it clear at the checkout stage.  
**Tip:** Include information about extra costs, such as VAT breakdown.

## Blocked shopping cart

Try to give your users the **freedom to edit and review their shopping cart at checkout**.  
**Tip:** Suggest accessories or complements of the products in the basket.

## A limited selection of payment methods

Include all possible payment alternatives, such as PayPal, Stripe, Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.  
**Tip:** Make filling in payment details easier with micro-interactions.

## Absence of security certificates

Online shoppers need to be 100% sure that your online store is trustworthy. Ensure you include the seal of the security system you’re using.  
**Tip:** Provide information about your security certificates throughout your web browser.

## Customer service chat unavailable

A live-chat box or tab is useful during the checkout process to resolve any issues.  
**Tip:** Consider using a chatbot to address basic user concerns.

## Conclusion

Winning customers always stems from providing the quality they’d expect: **flexible surfing, complete product data and a fast and reliable checkout**.