How do abandoned cart segments work?

An abandoned cart segment captures subscribers who added items to their cart but left without completing the purchase. This is one of the highest converting behavioral segments because intent is clear and the friction point is known.

When someone abandons a cart, your platform triggers an automated email sequence. The first message typically goes out within 1 to 3 hours, reminding them of the items and providing a direct link back to checkout. Follow up emails may include incentives like discounts, free shipping, or urgency messaging.

Effective abandoned cart emails show product images, names, and prices to recreate the shopping context. They address common objections like shipping costs, return policies, or payment options. Some include social proof or reviews to reinforce the decision.

Track cart abandonment rate, recovery rate, and time to conversion. If most recoveries happen after the second email, adjust your sequence timing. If discounts don't improve recovery, test messaging instead.

An abandoned cart is cargo left on the dock. A well timed reminder brings it back on board.