> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://responsive-media.gitbook.io/advanced-free-shipping/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://responsive-media.gitbook.io/advanced-free-shipping/support/best-practices.md).

# Best Practices

## Naming Conventions

### Use Descriptive Names

Good names help you manage multiple discounts:

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Good Names" %}

* "US Free Shipping $50+"
* "VIP Always Free Shipping"
* "Holiday 2024 Free Shipping"
* "CA Free Shipping $75+"
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Bad Names" %}

* "Discount 1"
* "Test"
* "Free Shipping" (too generic)
* "asdf"
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

### Naming Patterns

Choose a consistent pattern:

* **By Purpose**: "Free Shipping Over $50", "VIP Free Shipping"
* **By Location**: "US Free Shipping", "CA Discount Shipping"
* **By Season**: "Holiday 2024", "Summer Sale 2024"
* **By Customer**: "First-Time Free", "Wholesale Free Shipping"

***

## Discount Organization

### Start Simple

Begin with 1-3 core discounts:

1. Free shipping over $X
2. VIP free shipping
3. First-time customer incentive

Add complexity only when needed.

### Archive, Don't Delete

Keep expired seasonal discounts:

* Let them expire naturally (set end dates)
* Keep for reference next year
* Duplicate and update when the season returns

### Use Test Mode Liberally

Always test new discounts before going live:

1. Create with Test Mode ON
2. Test thoroughly
3. Turn Test Mode OFF
4. Monitor closely after launch

***

## Avoiding Common Mistakes

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Don't set thresholds too low**: You'll lose money on shipping costs.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Don't create too many overlapping discounts**: Causes confusion and may hit Shopify's limits.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Don't forget to test**: Always use Test Mode before going live.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Don't use overly complex conditions**: Simple discounts perform better and are easier to communicate.
{% endhint %}

***

## Testing Best Practices

{% hint style="info" %}
**Test every discount**: Even simple ones can have unexpected behavior.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Test edge cases**: Unusual cart combinations, different locations, guest vs logged-in.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Test on mobile**: Verify discounts work on all devices.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Document tests**: Keep notes on what you tested and results.
{% endhint %}

***

## Maintenance

### Regular Review

Monthly checklist:

* [ ] Review active discounts
* [ ] Check usage statistics
* [ ] Remove or update unused discounts
* [ ] Verify thresholds are still profitable
* [ ] Test any modified discounts

### Update for Changes

When you change your business:

* New products → Update product-based discounts
* New shipping rates → Adjust thresholds
* New regions → Add location-based discounts
* New customer tiers → Update tag-based discounts

***

## Related Resources

* [**Common Use Cases**](/advanced-free-shipping/common-use-cases/use-cases.md) - Copy proven discount strategies
* [**Testing Guide**](/advanced-free-shipping/troubleshooting/testing-guide.md) - Comprehensive testing checklist
* [**FAQ**](/advanced-free-shipping/support/faq.md) - Common questions answered
* [**Contact Support**](mailto:help@responsivemedia.com.au) - Get personalized advice


---

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