Running an online store means every small detail impacts customer experience—including how you display out-of-stock products. By default, WooCommerce shows a plain “Out of Stock” label, but customizing this text can help retain customers, encourage backorders, or even promote alternatives.

In this guide, you’ll learn why changing this text matters, how to do it (3 easy methods), and best practices for maximizing conversions. Plus, we’ve included a video tutorial for visual learners! 🎥

Why Change the “Out of Stock” Text in WooCommerce?

A simple “Out of Stock” message can turn shoppers away. But with a strategic tweak, you can:

✅ Reduce Cart Abandonment – Instead of losing a sale, suggest pre-orders or similar products.

✅ Improve User Experience – Friendly wording keeps customers engaged (e.g., “Restocking Soon!”).

✅ Boost Trust – Clear communication (e.g., “Back in 3 Days”) builds credibility.

✅ Increase Email Signups – Encourage notifications for restocks (“Notify Me When Available”).

3 Easy Ways to Change Out of Stock Text in WooCommerce

Method 1: Using WooCommerce Settings (Quickest)

Go to WooCommerce → Settings → Products → Inventory.

Find the “Out of Stock” Label field.

Enter your custom text (e.g., “Temporarily Unavailable – Check Back Soon!”).

Save Changes – Instantly updates across your store.

Method 2: Custom Code (For Advanced Users)

Add this snippet to your child theme’s functions.php or a plugin like Code Snippets:

add_filter('woocommerce_get_availability_text', 'custom_out_of_stock_text', 10, 2);  
function custom_out_of_stock_text($text, $product) {  
    if (!$product->is_in_stock()) {  
        $text = '🔥 Coming Back Soon! Email for Updates.';  
    }  
    return $text;  
}  

Method 3: Using a Plugin (No Coding)

Plugins like “WooCommerce Custom Messages” let you customize stock texts with a visual editor.

📹 Watch Our Step-by-Step Video Tutorial: 

Pro Tips for Effective Out-of-Stock Messages

✨ Be Transparent – If you know the restock date, mention it.

✨ Offer Alternatives – Link to similar products (“Love This? Try These!”).

✨ Encourage Action – Add a “Notify Me” button or email opt-in.

✨ Test Different Texts – A/B test messages to see what converts best.

Final Thoughts

Changing the default “Out of Stock” text in WooCommerce is a small tweak with big impact. Whether you use settings, code, or a plugin, a strategic message can turn lost sales into future opportunities.