5 Great Out Of Stock Email Templates To Copy & Paste

An 'out of stock' notice doesn't have to be a dead end. It's an opportunity to connect with your audience and build anticipation for what's next.

Using a template gives you a reliable starting point. You can send a well-designed, effective email without having to build it from the ground up each time.

Tips for Writing Out Of Stock Emails

• Be direct. State the item is out of stock in your subject line or opening sentence. No one appreciates clickbait when they’re trying to make a purchase.
• Set clear expectations. If you have a restock date, share it. If not, be upfront about it and provide a way for them to get notified. This builds trust.
• Suggest alternatives. Showcase a few similar products. It’s a simple way to guide them to another item they might love and keeps them on your site.
• Keep it on-brand. An out-of-stock email is still a reflection of your brand. Use your signature design and voice to make even this simple notification feel like a cohesive part of their experience with you.
• Create a waitlist. Add a simple call-to-action, like a button, for customers to join a waitlist. This turns a "no" into a "not yet" and builds excitement for the restock.

Types of Out Of Stock Email Templates We Will Cover

1. Apology and Update Email Template
2. Restock Notification Email Template
3. Alternative Product Suggestion Email Template
4. Exclusive Pre-Order Email Template
5. Backorder Confirmation Email Template

5 Out Of Stock Email Templates

1) Apology and Update Email Template

<template>

Subject: An update on your order for [Product Name]

Hi [Customer Name],

We're reaching out with an update on your recent order. Due to a recent surge in popularity, the [Product Name] you selected is temporarily out of stock. We're truly sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

The good news is that we expect a full restock by [Date]. Your order will be the first to ship out as soon as it arrives.

If waiting isn't ideal, we understand completely. We can [offer a solution, e.g., 'cancel your order for a full refund' or 'swap it for the [Alternative Product Name], which you might also love']. Simply reply to this email to let us know what works best for you.

Thank you for your patience.

Best,

The [Your Company Name] Team

</template>

2) Restock Notification Email Template

<template>

Subject: Good news! [Product Name] is back in stock.

Hi [Customer Name],

You asked to be notified, and we're happy to let you know that [Product Name] is officially back in stock and ready to ship.

This one was popular, so if you've had your eye on it, now is a great time to make it yours. Click the link below to complete your purchase.

[Link to Product Page]

We appreciate your patience.

Best,

The [Your Company Name] Team

</template>

3) Alternative Product Suggestion Email Template

<template>

Subject: An alternative for the [Product Name]

Hi [Customer Name],

We noticed you were interested in the [Product Name], which is currently out of stock. While we work on restocking, we thought you might like these alternatives from our collection.

Each one was selected because it shares the same [mention a key feature, e.g., 'design philosophy,' 'function,' 'aesthetic'] as the item you originally viewed.

[Link to Alternative Product 1 with Image and Brief Description]

[Link to Alternative Product 2 with Image and Brief Description]

Of course, if you'd prefer to wait for the original, you can join the waitlist below. We'll email you the moment it's available again.

[Link to Waitlist Sign-up]

Best,

The [Your Company Name] Team

</template>

4) Exclusive Pre-Order Email Template

<template>

Subject: Your exclusive chance to pre-order [Product Name]

Hi [Customer Name],

You've been waiting, and we have good news. Because you're on our list, you're getting first access to pre-order the [Product Name] before it's back in stock for everyone else.

Pre-ordering guarantees you'll receive the item as soon as it arrives, which we expect to be around [Date]. This is your opportunity to secure it without worrying about it selling out again.

Click the link below to place your pre-order.

[Link to Pre-Order Page]

We're excited for you to get your hands on it.

Best,

The [Your Company Name] Team

</template>

5) Backorder Confirmation Email Template

<template>

Subject: Your backorder for [Product Name] is confirmed

Hi [Customer Name],

This email confirms your backorder for the [Product Name]. We've secured your spot in line, and we'll ship it to you as soon as it's back in our hands.

We expect to have it ready to ship around [Date]. You'll receive another email with tracking information the moment it leaves our warehouse.

If your plans change and you'd prefer to cancel, just reply to this email, and we'll take care of it for you.

Thank you for your patience.

Best,

The [Your Company Name] Team

</template>

What About Using Flodesk?

To put these out-of-stock email templates into action, you need a platform that makes sending them simple. Flodesk offers intuitive email marketing tools designed for small businesses, helping you manage and grow your email list. You don’t need to be a designer or a coder to create, send, and automate emails that connect with your audience and support your sales.

Our platform is built to be straightforward for both beginners and experienced users. With an intuitive email builder, effective automation workflows, and well-designed forms, Flodesk provides everything you need for your email marketing. We focus on giving you the tools to send emails that look good and get results, without the usual complexity.

Wrapping Up

An out-of-stock email is another touchpoint to strengthen your customer relationships. Our platform gives you the control to design and send emails that reflect your brand's quality.

See how our platform can support your business. Sign up to begin creating with Flodesk.