How to Create an Order Manually in WooCommerce

Hey, it’s Rick Simnett here, founder of Media Giant Design. If you’re running an online store with WooCommerce, there will come a time when you need to create an order manually. Maybe a customer called in instead of ordering online. Maybe you’re handling a special request. Maybe something got messed up, and you need to fix it. Whatever the case, knowing how to create an order manually is a skill every store owner needs.

Let’s walk through it.

Why You Might Need to Do This

You’re here because something didn’t go the way it usually does. Orders normally come in through the website. But life doesn’t always go according to plan. Here are some reasons you might need to step in and create an order yourself:

• Phone Orders – Some customers just prefer talking to a human.
• Email Requests – You get an email, and it’s easier to just handle it manually.
• Custom Orders – Not everything fits neatly into an online product listing.
• Wholesale or Bulk Orders – Your system isn’t set up for the kind of volume they need.
• Fixing Mistakes – Maybe an order needs a correction, and this is the best way to do it.

Whatever the reason, let’s get it done.

Step-by-Step: Creating an Order Manually

Step 1: Get to the Right Place

1. Log in to WordPress.
2. Head over to WooCommerce > Orders.
3. Click Add Order.

Step 2: Enter the Details

1. Order Status – Set it to whatever makes sense (Pending, Processing, Completed, etc.).
2. Customer Info – If they have an account, assign the order to them. If not, enter their details manually.

Step 3: Add the Products

1. Click “Add item(s)” and then “Add product(s)”.
2. Find the products, add them, and adjust quantity and price if needed.

Step 4: Discounts, Coupons, Fees (If Needed)

1. If they have a coupon, apply it.
2. If you want to give them a discount manually, click “Add fee” and enter a negative amount.

Step 5: Shipping & Payment

1. Add shipping details.
2. Set a payment method (Cash on Delivery, Check, Bank Transfer, etc.).

Step 6: Notes & Communication

1. Use Order Notes to document anything important.
2. If needed, send an email update to the customer.

Step 7: Save & Finalize

1. Click Save Order.
2. If payment is due, send the invoice.
3. Once they pay, update the status to Processing or Completed.

Keeping Things Running Smoothly

• Track Orders Properly – Assign them to customer accounts when possible.
• Automate Where You Can – Set up email notifications and payment links.
• Keep Inventory Accurate – Don’t forget to adjust stock levels manually.

Final Thoughts

Running an online store isn’t just about setting things up and letting them run. Sometimes you need to step in and handle things manually. Knowing how to create an order in WooCommerce gives you flexibility. It keeps your store running smoothly, even when things don’t go as expected.

You’ve got this. Now get back to growing your business.

– Rick Simnett, Media Giant Design