The most common limit merchants set, because it maps directly onto the problem: small orders cost roughly the same to pick, pack and ship as large ones.
Before you start
- Your true cost to fulfil an order — packaging, labour, shipping, payment fees.
- The currencies you sell in.
Steps
1. Install Nex Validator
Search Nex Validator in the Shopify App Store, or use the button below. Approve the permissions and the app appears in your admin under Apps. There is a free trial, and it works on every Shopify plan.
2. Go to Simple Order Limit → Create Rule.
3. Give the rule a title, and switch Enable/Disable Limit on. A rule that is saved but not enabled looks identical to one that is not working.
4. Open the Cart tab, choose Cart Min Amount, and enter your minimum cart value.
5. Write the message, then save. State the number — a customer £4 short will usually add something if they know how far off they are.
Verify it worked
- Cart below the minimum → checkout blocked.
- Cart at the minimum → checkout completes.
- If you use discount codes, repeat test 2 with a code applied and confirm it behaves the way you expect.
Common setups
| Goal | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Cover fulfilment cost on small items | 2–3× your pick-and-pack cost |
| B2B or wholesale storefront | Your agreed account minimum |
| Protect margin on discounted ranges | Above your cost floor after discount |
| Reduce card-fee drag on tiny orders | Whatever makes the fee proportionate |
Set it just above the cost line rather than at an aspirational number. A minimum that blocks a third of your carts is a pricing decision, not a fulfilment one.