Balance Deposits for bike shops
A custom build means ordering a frame, a groupset and wheels on the customer's word. A deposit turns the word into commitment and the balance collects itself when the bike is built.
The usual plan
Custom builds usually run at 30% to 50% deposit with the balance when the bike is built and ready to collect: the 'when the order is ready' rule. Pre-order frames or limited e-bike drops with a known arrival date use a fixed date or a number of days after the order. High-ticket e-bikes sold ready-made suit a small deposit and monthly instalments.
Example: £4,500 custom gravel build, 30% deposit, balance when ready. £1,350 at checkout, £3,150 the day you mark it ready, order held until it clears.
Stock and pre-orders
Balance Due plans are built on Shopify selling plans in the pre-order category, so pre-order frames sit alongside your normal stock and the customer sees a clear 'deposit today, balance when it arrives' line. When the container lands, mark the orders ready and the balances are charged within minutes.
Changes to the spec
Upgrades to wheels or a different saddle change the price. Edit the order in Shopify and the balance updates; the customer's payment page shows the new figure.
Collection
The fulfilment hold means the order cannot be closed off as collected in Shopify until it is paid, which is a useful backstop on a busy Saturday. Release it by hand if a regular is paying at the counter.
Questions
Can the customer pay the balance in store?
Yes. Take the payment in Shopify against the order (POS or mark as paid) and Balance Due sees the outstanding amount drop and closes the plan.
Do pre-order deposits work with a countdown or arrival date?
Use an exact date on the plan and the storefront line reads 'balance on 14 March'. If the date slips, reschedule the payments from the orders.
Can I take a deposit on a service like a bike fit?
Yes, if it is sold as a product. For appointment bookings with deposits a booking app is the better fit.
Not on the list?
If your customers commit before the work is done, Balance Due fits. Tell us what you sell and we will suggest a plan.