E-commerce Order Confirmation Email Template

TL;DR. An e-commerce order confirmation email is sent immediately after a customer places an order. The best order confirmation emails restate the order details, set expectations for shipping, and include a single link to the order status page.

When to send an order confirmation email

• Triggered automatically the moment payment is captured.
• Before the shipping notification — this is the receipt of record.
• Always sent, including for repeat customers and gift orders.

What to include in an order confirmation email

• Order number and a thank-you opener.
• Itemized summary with subtotal, shipping, taxes, and total.
• Shipping address as captured at checkout.
• An order-status link the customer can return to.
• A clear deadline for changes or cancellations.

Subject line examples

• "Thanks for your order — #{{order_number}}"
• "Your {{store_name}} order is confirmed"
• "Order #{{order_number}} received — what's next"

FAQ

What should an order confirmation email include? An order confirmation email should restate the order number, item list, totals, shipping address, and a status link. It should also tell the customer how to make changes and what email they'll get next.

When should an order confirmation email be sent? Send the order confirmation email immediately after payment is captured. A delay of even a few minutes erodes trust and increases support tickets asking "did my order go through?"

Is an order confirmation email the same as a receipt? The order confirmation email usually serves as the receipt — it shows the line items, totals, and tax breakdown. Some merchants send a separate receipt email after fulfillment, but a single confirmation message is the more common pattern.