The Simple Backordering policy is a straightforward way to keep selected products sellable on Shopify, even when they're out of stock.
Unlike the Tightly InStock policy, this option does not consider lead times, purchase order status, or delivery thresholds. Once applied, backordering is always enabled for the selected products.
Want to understand how InStock policies work overall? Check the overview tutorial here.
What This Policy Does
For all products included in a Simple Backordering policy:
Shopify backordering is always enabled, regardless of stock level, lead time, or PO status.
Unfulfilled sold quantities are automatically added to the Basket, allowing your purchasing team to act quickly.
An InStock icon appears in the Basket next to these items to signal that they were added by the policy.
This is ideal for products that are consistently replenished, made-to-order, or carry minimal fulfillment risk.
Step 1: Choose the Policy Type
Go to the InStock page from the main navigation.
Select “Simple Backordering” as the policy type.
There are no additional configuration steps — no delivery time rules or PO checks are applied.
Step 2: Select Products
After selecting the policy type, you’ll be prompted to choose the products it applies to.
Use filters to view "Recommended" or "All Products"
Review variant details such as current stock, lead time, or MOQ
Use checkboxes to select one or more products
Click “Complete & Activate Policy” to apply
You can add new products or remove the existing products from the policy at any time.
What Happens After Activation
Once the policy is active:
Shopify will always display the selected products as purchasable, even when stock is 0.
If a customer places an order for an out-of-stock item:
The unfulfilled quantity is automatically added to the Basket
An InStock icon appears next to that line item in the Basket
This ensures purchasing managers have visibility into what needs restocking without checking orders manually.
Managing the Policy
The policy overview screen lets you:
View all products currently included
Add or remove products as needed
Monitor basic performance stats such as orders, revenue, and quantity sold
All changes take effect immediately and update Shopify accordingly.
When to Use This Policy
You’re comfortable selling out-of-stock items without needing PO confirmation
Products are made-to-order, digitally fulfilled, or easily restocked
You want simple, always-on backordering without lead time logic
For more control and lead-time-based logic, consider the Tightly InStock policy.