Managing Your Order

Order status updates are your primary way to keep buyers informed throughout their purchase journey. Clear communication through status updates builds trust, reduces questions, and leads to better experiences.

Why Order Status Matters

Every status update you make:

• Automatically notifies the buyer — No need for separate messages
• Shows professionalism — Buyers know you're on top of their order
• Reduces anxiety — Customers can track progress without asking
• Improves reviews — Good communication leads to happy customers

This simple practice prevents confusion, builds trust, and shows your professionalism as a seller. The guide below shows exactly how to update each status.

The Order Status Flow

Every order starts as "Submitted" when placed. Move it through its stages:

Every order follows this simple path:

Submitted → In Progress → Ready → Fulfilled

Here's what each status means:

• Submitted = New order placed by buyer (update to 'In Progress' within 24 hours)
• In Progress = You're working on it
• Ready = Packed and ready to go
• Fulfilled = Buyer has received their order

Quick option: You can move orders directly to "Fulfilled" when appropriate (e.g., immediately fulfilled purchases).

Handling Special Situations

Need to Cancel?

Change status to "Cancelled" if you cannot fulfill the order. Always message the buyer to explain why and confirm any refund details. IMPORTANT: This does not automatically refund the buyer. You must do that through your Stripe dashboard.

Running Late?

Keep the order status accurate and send a message through the platform explaining the delay. Buyers appreciate honesty and updates.

Partial Fulfillment?

If you can only fulfill part of an order, message the buyer before marking "Ready" to discuss options and process any refund through Stripe.

Important Reminders

⚠️ Order status and payment status are separate systems

• Order status (what you control) tracks fulfillment
• Payment status (handled by Stripe) tracks the money
• Always update order status according its current status

💡 Set up notifications in your account settings so you never miss a new order, buyer message, or other important account notifications.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Batch your updates — Set specific times to review and update all orders
2. Communicate proactively — If anything changes, message buyers before they ask

Remember: Your reputation on Steader is built one order at a time. Consistent, clear status updates are the foundation of a successful homestead business.

Need help? Check out our guides on Messaging Buyers and Handling Disputes, or contact us at hello@steader.com.