How to Pre-Order on Amazon: A Step-by-Step Guide
Pre-ordering on Amazon is a fantastic way to secure highly anticipated items, ensuring you’re among the first to receive them upon release. Whether it’s a new video game, a hot-off-the-press book, the latest gadget, or a must-have collectible, Amazon’s pre-order system offers convenience and peace of mind. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from finding pre-orderable items to managing your pre-orders effectively.
Why Pre-Order on Amazon?
Before diving into the “how-to,” let’s explore the compelling reasons to pre-order on Amazon:
* **Guaranteed Delivery:** Pre-ordering significantly increases your chances of receiving the item on its release date. Popular items can sell out quickly, leaving you waiting for restocks. A pre-order puts you at the front of the line.
* **Price Guarantee:** Amazon’s Pre-order Price Guarantee ensures that you pay the lowest price offered between the time you place your order and the item’s release date. If the price drops, you’ll automatically receive the lower price. This is a major advantage, as prices can fluctuate before release.
* **Convenience:** Avoid the last-minute rush and potential disappointment of missing out on a popular item. Pre-ordering allows you to relax, knowing your purchase is secured.
* **Early Access (Sometimes):** Occasionally, pre-ordering might grant you access to exclusive content, beta versions, or other bonuses, depending on the item and the seller.
* **Planning and Budgeting:** Pre-ordering allows you to plan your purchases in advance and budget accordingly, avoiding impulse buys or last-minute financial strain.
Finding Pre-Orderable Items on Amazon
Amazon offers several ways to discover items available for pre-order:
**1. Browsing by Category:**
* Start by navigating to the specific category you’re interested in (e.g., Books, Video Games, Electronics, Movies & TV).
* Look for keywords like “Pre-order,” “Coming Soon,” or “New Releases” within the category.
* Many categories have dedicated sections for new releases and pre-orderable items, making it easier to find what you’re looking for.
**2. Using the Search Bar:**
* Use specific keywords related to the item you want to pre-order. For example, if you’re interested in a new video game, search for “[Game Title] Pre-order.”
* Filter your search results by release date to narrow down your options and focus on upcoming products.
**3. Checking Product Pages:**
* If you already know about a specific item being released, visit its product page on Amazon.
* The product page will clearly indicate whether pre-ordering is available. Look for a button or label that says “Pre-order Now,” “Pre-order Today,” or similar.
* The product page will also display the release date, estimated delivery date, and any relevant details about the pre-order.
**4. Exploring Amazon’s “New & Future Releases” Pages:**
Amazon has dedicated sections that showcase upcoming releases across various categories:
* **Amazon Books New & Future Releases:** [https://www.amazon.com/gp/new-releases/books](https://www.amazon.com/gp/new-releases/books)
* **Amazon Video Games New & Future Releases:** [https://www.amazon.com/gp/new-releases/videogames](https://www.amazon.com/gp/new-releases/videogames)
* **Amazon Electronics New & Future Releases:** [https://www.amazon.com/gp/new-releases/electronics](https://www.amazon.com/gp/new-releases/electronics)
* **Amazon Movies & TV New & Future Releases:** [https://www.amazon.com/gp/new-releases/movies-tv](https://www.amazon.com/gp/new-releases/movies-tv)
These pages are updated regularly with new pre-order opportunities, making them a valuable resource for staying informed.
**5. Following Your Favorite Brands and Creators:**
* Many brands and creators announce pre-order availability on their websites, social media channels, or email newsletters.
* Following them allows you to stay informed about upcoming releases and be among the first to pre-order.
* You can also set up email alerts on Amazon for specific authors, artists, or brands to receive notifications about new releases.
How to Pre-Order on Amazon: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you know where to find pre-orderable items, let’s walk through the process of placing a pre-order:
**Step 1: Find the Item You Want to Pre-Order**
* Use the methods described above to locate the item you’re interested in pre-ordering.
* Ensure the item is actually available for pre-order. Look for the “Pre-order Now” button or a similar indicator on the product page.
**Step 2: Add the Item to Your Cart**
* Click the “Pre-order Now” button (or the equivalent). This will add the item to your Amazon shopping cart.
* Review the item in your cart to ensure it’s the correct product and quantity.
**Step 3: Proceed to Checkout**
* Click the “Proceed to Checkout” button in your cart.
* If you’re not already logged in to your Amazon account, you’ll be prompted to do so.
**Step 4: Select Your Shipping Address**
* Choose the shipping address where you want the item to be delivered. You can select an existing address or add a new one.
* Ensure the shipping address is accurate and complete to avoid any delivery issues.
**Step 5: Choose Your Payment Method**
* Select the payment method you want to use for the pre-order. You can choose from existing payment methods or add a new one.
* Amazon typically doesn’t charge your payment method until the item ships, but it’s always a good idea to verify the payment terms during the checkout process.
**Step 6: Review Your Order**
* Carefully review your order details, including the item, quantity, shipping address, payment method, and estimated delivery date.
* Make sure everything is correct before proceeding.
**Step 7: Place Your Order**
* Click the “Place Your Order” button to finalize your pre-order.
* You’ll receive an order confirmation email with details about your pre-order, including the estimated delivery date.
Managing Your Amazon Pre-Orders
After placing a pre-order, it’s essential to know how to manage it. Amazon provides tools to track your pre-orders, make changes, or cancel them if necessary.
**1. Accessing Your Orders:**
* Log in to your Amazon account.
* Click on “Returns & Orders” in the top right corner of the page.
* This will take you to your order history, where you can view all your past and present orders, including pre-orders.
**2. Viewing Pre-Order Details:**
* Locate the pre-order you want to manage in your order history.
* Click on the “Order Details” button next to the pre-order.
* This will display all the information about the pre-order, including the item, quantity, shipping address, payment method, estimated delivery date, and order status.
**3. Changing Your Shipping Address:**
* In the “Order Details” section, look for the “Change Shipping Address” option.
* Click on it and follow the instructions to update your shipping address.
* Note that you may not be able to change the shipping address if the item is already being prepared for shipment.
**4. Changing Your Payment Method:**
* In the “Order Details” section, look for the “Change Payment Method” option.
* Click on it and follow the instructions to update your payment method.
* You can choose from existing payment methods or add a new one.
**5. Cancelling a Pre-Order:**
* In the “Order Details” section, look for the “Cancel Items” button.
* Click on it and select the item(s) you want to cancel.
* Provide a reason for the cancellation (optional) and click the “Cancel Checked Items” button.
* You’ll receive a cancellation confirmation email. Note that you usually can’t cancel an order once it has entered the shipping process.
**6. Tracking Your Pre-Order:**
* Once the item ships, you’ll receive a tracking number from Amazon.
* You can use this tracking number to monitor the progress of your shipment and get an estimated delivery date.
* The tracking information will be available in the “Order Details” section of your pre-order.
Amazon’s Pre-Order Price Guarantee: A Deeper Dive
Amazon’s Pre-order Price Guarantee is a major benefit for customers. Here’s a more detailed explanation of how it works:
* **How it Works:** When you pre-order an eligible item on Amazon, you’re guaranteed to pay the lowest price offered by Amazon between the time you place your order and the item’s release date.
* **Automatic Application:** The price guarantee is applied automatically. You don’t need to track prices or request adjustments manually. Amazon will automatically update the price of your pre-order if the price drops.
* **Price Changes After Release Date:** The price guarantee only applies to price changes that occur before the item’s release date. Once the item is released, the price is fixed.
* **Third-Party Sellers:** The Pre-order Price Guarantee typically applies only to items sold directly by Amazon, not to items sold by third-party sellers on the Amazon Marketplace. Always check who is selling the item to confirm eligibility.
* **Claiming the Lower Price (Rare Cases):** In extremely rare cases, the price guarantee might not be applied automatically. If you believe you’re entitled to a lower price and haven’t received it, you can contact Amazon customer service for assistance. Be prepared to provide your order number and evidence of the lower price.
**Example:**
Let’s say you pre-order a video game for $60. A week before its release, Amazon lowers the price to $50. Thanks to the Pre-order Price Guarantee, you’ll only be charged $50 when the game ships.
Troubleshooting Common Pre-Order Issues
While pre-ordering on Amazon is generally smooth, you might encounter some issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:
* **Delayed Delivery:** Sometimes, pre-ordered items might be delayed due to unforeseen circumstances, such as shipping delays, manufacturing issues, or high demand. Amazon will usually notify you if there’s a delay. Check the “Order Details” section for updates.
* **Item Not in Stock:** In rare cases, Amazon might run out of stock of a pre-ordered item, even if you placed your order well in advance. If this happens, Amazon will typically offer a refund or a credit. You can also try contacting customer service to see if they can help you find the item elsewhere.
* **Incorrect Item Received:** If you receive the wrong item, contact Amazon customer service immediately. They will usually arrange for a return and replacement or a refund.
* **Payment Issues:** If there’s a problem with your payment method, Amazon will notify you and give you a chance to update it. Make sure your payment information is accurate and up-to-date to avoid any delays.
* **Cancellation Issues:** If you’re unable to cancel a pre-order, it’s likely because the item is already being prepared for shipment. In this case, you can try refusing the delivery or returning the item for a refund.
Tips for a Smooth Pre-Ordering Experience
Here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth pre-ordering experience on Amazon:
* **Double-Check Product Details:** Before pre-ordering, carefully review the product description, specifications, and customer reviews to ensure it’s the right item for you.
* **Read the Fine Print:** Pay attention to the release date, estimated delivery date, and any special terms or conditions associated with the pre-order.
* **Keep Your Account Information Up-to-Date:** Ensure your shipping address, payment information, and email address are accurate and current.
* **Monitor Your Orders:** Regularly check your order history to track the status of your pre-orders and stay informed about any updates or changes.
* **Contact Customer Service if Needed:** Don’t hesitate to contact Amazon customer service if you have any questions or concerns about your pre-orders.
* **Be Patient:** Pre-ordering involves waiting for the item to be released. Be patient and understanding if there are any delays.
* **Consider Amazon Prime:** Amazon Prime members often receive additional benefits, such as free expedited shipping and exclusive deals on pre-orders.
Alternatives to Pre-Ordering on Amazon
While Amazon is a popular choice for pre-ordering, there are other options to consider:
* **Other Online Retailers:** Retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart also offer pre-ordering for various items.
* **GameStop (for Video Games):** GameStop is a popular destination for pre-ordering video games, often offering exclusive bonuses and in-store pickup options.
* **Direct from the Manufacturer:** Some manufacturers allow you to pre-order directly from their websites.
* **Local Stores:** Consider pre-ordering from your local bookstores, game stores, or electronics stores to support local businesses.
Conclusion
Pre-ordering on Amazon is a convenient and reliable way to secure highly anticipated items and take advantage of the Pre-order Price Guarantee. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently pre-order your favorite products and ensure you’re among the first to receive them upon release. Remember to manage your pre-orders effectively, track your shipments, and contact customer service if you encounter any issues. Happy pre-ordering!