How to Solve the “Checkout Not Working” Issue on Shopify: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

How to Solve the “Checkout Not Working” Issue on Shopify: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Keywords: Shopify checkout not working, Shopify checkout issues, Shopify checkout troubleshooting, fix checkout button Shopify

Introduction

The Shopify checkout process is one of the most critical steps in a customer’s buying journey. If the checkout isn’t working, it directly leads to abandoned carts, lost sales, and a frustrating experience for customers. Whether the checkout page isn’t loading, buttons aren’t responding, or there’s an error message—this guide will help you identify and fix the problem.

 


 

Common Shopify Checkout Issues (and What Causes Them)

1. Checkout Button Not Responding

This is often caused by theme code errors or JavaScript conflicts.

2. Page Stuck at Checkout Loading

Slow or blocked scripts can stop the checkout page from fully loading.

3. Shipping or Payment Not Displaying

This could be due to misconfigured settings or lack of shipping zones/payment gateways.

4. Error Messages During Checkout

Frequent reasons include broken apps, currency mismatches, or address format issues.

5. Checkout Works in Some Browsers But Not Others

Browser extensions, outdated browsers, or cookie settings could be interfering.

 


 

How to Fix Shopify Checkout Issues: Full Checklist

✅ 1. Test Checkout in Incognito Mode

Use Chrome or Firefox in Incognito mode to rule out browser extensions.

✅ 2. Check Shopify Status Page

Go to Shopify Status to see if checkout is down platform-wide.

✅ 3. Disable Recently Added Apps

Apps that inject code (like upsells, sticky bars, or tracking pixels) may interfere with checkout.

  • Go to Apps > Manage Apps and disable one by one to test.

✅ 4. Revert Recent Theme Code Changes

Modified JavaScript or Liquid files can break buttons or forms.

  • Go to Online Store > Themes > Actions > Edit Code and use "Older versions" to roll back recent changes.

✅ 5. Review Checkout Settings

Ensure you've:

  • Added at least one Shipping Zone under Settings > Shipping & Delivery

  • Configured Payment Providers like Shopify Payments, PayPal, etc.

  • Checked Customer Accounts (optional vs required)

✅ 6. Disable Checkout Apps Temporarily

Disable apps like:

  • Checkout customizer apps

  • One-click upsell apps

  • Cart drawer replacement apps

Check if the checkout works without them.

✅ 7. Contact Shopify Support

If none of the above resolves the issue, contact Shopify directly:

  • Use 24/7 live chat or ticketing via your Shopify dashboard.

  • Provide screenshots, order IDs, or console errors to help them resolve faster.

 


 

Advanced Fix: Check Console for JavaScript Errors

Open Developer Tools (F12) and go to the Console tab while reproducing the error. Look for red error messages that point to specific code/scripts. This helps your developer or Shopify Support pinpoint the cause.

 


 

Prevent Checkout Issues in the Future

  • Avoid editing core theme files directly—use a duplicate theme for testing.

  • Limit the number of apps that interfere with the cart or checkout.

  • Keep your theme updated and only use reputable app developers.

 


 

Conclusion

A non-working checkout can cost you real revenue. By following these troubleshooting steps and keeping your store clean of unnecessary code or buggy apps, you can ensure a smooth checkout experience for every customer.

 

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