How do I set a time‑limited sale or flash sale in Shopify?

You can create a time-limited sale or flash sale in Shopify by setting specific start and end dates on a discount. The most effective method is using an automatic discount, which applies instantly without requiring customers to enter a code.

Best Method: Create a Flash Sale with an Automatic Discount

1. Go to Shopify Admin → Discounts.
2. Click Create discount.
3. Select a discount type:
   • Amount off products (specific items)
   • Amount off orders (site-wide sale)
   • Free shipping
   • Buy X get Y (BOGO flash sale)
4. Under Method, select Automatic discount.
5. Enter a clear title (e.g., 24-Hour Flash Sale – 30% Off).

Configure the Discount Value

• Choose Percentage (e.g., 30% off), or
• Choose Fixed amount (e.g., $20 off).
• Select whether it applies to one-time purchases, subscriptions, or both (if enabled).

Choose Where the Sale Applies

• All products (for site-wide flash sales)
• Specific products
• Specific collections

Optional Settings

• Set a minimum purchase amount or quantity.
• Choose customer eligibility (all customers, specific customers, or segments).
• Allow or restrict discount combinations.

Set the Time Limit (Critical Step)

• In Active dates, choose the start date and time.
• Enable Set end date.
• Select the exact end date and time.
• For a 24-hour sale, set 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM on the same day.
• For a multi-day sale, select different start and end dates.

Click Save to activate the scheduled flash sale.

Alternative: Create a Flash Sale with a Discount Code

If you want exclusive access (for email subscribers or VIP customers), choose Discount code instead of Automatic.

• Create a code like FLASH30.
• Configure the discount value and product scope.
• Set the start and end dates.
• Share the code via email, SMS, or social media.

Customers must enter the code at checkout before the expiration time.

Important Timing Considerations

• Discount timing follows your store’s time zone (set in Shopify settings).
• If no end date is set, the sale runs indefinitely.
• Automatic discounts do not apply to post-purchase upsell pages.
• Retail stores require POS Pro for automatic discounts in physical locations.

Best Practices for High-Converting Flash Sales

• Use automatic discounts to reduce checkout friction.
• Clearly communicate the deadline to create urgency.
• Add countdown timers on product or collection pages.
• Promote the sale through banners, email campaigns, and social media.
• Test the discount before launch.
• Monitor inventory to avoid overselling.

Common Flash Sale Examples

• 24-Hour Sale: Feb 20, 12:00 AM – 11:59 PM
• Weekend Sale: Friday 12:00 AM – Sunday 11:59 PM
• 4-Hour Lightning Sale: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Week-Long Promotion: Feb 20 – Feb 27