Enabling custom order requests shows buyers that you can work with them to create one-of-a-kind items beyond what you have available in your inventory. If a shopper requests a custom item, you can convert their request to a custom listing.
How to enable custom order requests
You'll be able to add custom order requests once your shop is open to the public. Custom order requests can only be enabled on Etsy.com.
To enable custom order requests:
- Go to Shop Manager.
- Go to Settings.
- Go to Options.
- Under Custom order requests, select Enabled.
- Select Save.
A Request Custom Order button will appear on your shop homepage.
The maximum processing time you can place on a custom order is 6-8 weeks.
What your buyer will see
When a buyer chooses Request Custom Order, they'll be able to send you a message describing what they're looking for and the date they need it by (if there is a deadline).
If you need more information, send your buyer a message to work out the details.
How you and your buyer complete a custom order
When the buyer initially requests an item, you'll receive a message. If it’s a new message, it will be in your Custom Requests folder. If it’s part of an existing message thread, it will be in your Inbox.
Once you work out the details of exactly what the buyer wants and how much it will cost, create a custom, private listing directly from the original Custom Request Message thread.
It's not possible to choose a calculated shipping profile for custom orders at this time.
Additional information about custom listings
- The listing won't appear in your public shop or in search, which means that other buyers won't be able to purchase it. Once your listing is sold, though, it will appear on your public Sold Items page with your other sold listings.
- Your private custom listings are viewable from your Listings page. They’ll be labeled Private.
- Once you publish this listing, we'll send your buyer an email with a button to purchase the listing.
- Private listings cannot be created for digital items. If you want to offer a custom digital item, consider setting up made-to-order digital listings in your shop.
- If your buyer sent the request through a regular message, you can still create a private custom listing. In the message, select Create custom order. Fill out the required information, then choose Send private listing.
How custom listings differ from listing variations
Listing variations offer an item you already make, with different options a buyer can choose from, such as color, size, styles, or materials. These options are available for any buyer who visits your website to purchase.
Listings created from a custom request are private between you and the buyer. When a custom listing is created, that item is only available for the buyer who made the request and won’t be displayed on your storefront.
Learn more about using and managing custom orders.