What is Checkout Flow?

Checkout flow is the multi-step or single-page process from cart to order confirmation. Collects shipping address, payment info, and confirms order. Includes progress indicators, order summary sidebar, error handling, and validation. Optimize for speed—every extra step loses customers.

When Should You Use This?

Every e-commerce site. Minimize to 3-4 steps max: shipping, payment, review, confirmation. Use progress indicator. Allow guest checkout (don't force account creation). Mobile: Single-page checkout often performs better. Integrate Stripe or PayPal for secure payment processing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• •Too many steps—keep to 3-4 maximum, combine where possible
• •Forcing account creation—offer guest checkout to reduce friction
• •No progress indicator—users need to know how many steps remain
• •Hidden order summary—show sidebar with items, pricing, and total

Real-World Examples

• •Single-page checkout—all fields on one page, accordion sections, works well on mobile
• •Multi-step—separate pages for shipping → payment → review, clear progress bar
• •Express checkout—Stripe/PayPal buttons that auto-fill shipping and payment