How to Set Up Manual Code Discounts

This guide explains how to create offers that require the customer to enter a specific code at checkout, rather than applying automatically. This method works for both Custom campaigns and Volume discounts.

Step-by-Step Configuration

1. Choose the Discount Method

• Open the Custom Discount Builder (or Volume Discount builder).
• Crucial Step: Under the "Discount Type" or initial settings, select Discount Code (Manual).
• • Automatic: Applies immediately to the cart when rules are met.
  • Discount Code: Requires the customer to type a code at checkout to redeem.

2. Define Rules & Value

• Promotion Name: Enter a name. In most Kite builders, this Name becomes the Discount Code itself (e.g., naming the campaign SAVE20 creates the code SAVE20).
• Eligibility Rules: Define the conditions, such as:
• • Specific Product or Collection requirements.
  • Customer Tags (e.g., VIP only).
  • Minimum Quantity or Subtotal.
• Value: Set the percentage or fixed amount off.
• Save your campaign.

3. The Customer Experience (Manual Workflow) Unlike automatic offers, the customer journey follows this specific flow:

1. Shopping: The customer adds eligible items to the cart.
2. Cart Page: The price remains the Full Price. The discount is not visible yet.
3. Checkout: The customer proceeds to checkout and locates the "Discount code" field.
4. Redemption: They type the code (Promotion Name) and click Apply. The subtotal then updates.

Important Note on Volume Discounts & Widgets

If you set a Volume Discount (e.g., "Buy 2, Get 10% Off") to Manual/Discount Code:

• The Widget: The Volume Discount widget will still appear on the product page to advertise the deal.
• The Limitation: Clicking the widget or adding the required quantity will not automatically discount the price in the cart.
• Best Practice: If using Manual Volume Discounts, ensure your widget text clearly tells the customer: "Buy 2 and use code [CODE] at checkout!"

Technical Notes & Limitations

Stacking/Combinations: Manual codes adhere to Shopify's strict stacking rules. A customer usually cannot use this manual code alongside another manual code (e.g., a Free Shipping code) unless "Combinations" are enabled in the settings for both discounts.
Code Sensitivity: Discount codes are case-insensitive in Shopify, but they must match the Promotion Name exactly regarding spacing. Ensure there are no accidental spaces at the end of your name (e.g., "SALE10 " vs "SALE10").

Troubleshooting Checklist

• Discount not applying? Verify the customer's cart meets the Eligibility Rules (e.g., Minimum quantity reached). Even with a code, the rules must be met.
• Widget visible but full price? This is expected behavior for Manual offers. If you want the price to drop instantly in the cart/drawer, you must switch the campaign type to Automatic.
• "Code does not exist"? Double-check the Promotion Name in Kite. If you recently renamed the campaign, the code changes to match the new name.

Updated on: 23/01/2026