What is Cross-selling

Cross-selling is the practice of suggesting additional products that complement what a customer is already considering or has added to their cart. These items are usually related but not required.

Examples

Main Product Cross-Sell Suggestion
Laptop Laptop sleeve
Coffee maker Coffee filters
Sneakers Athletic socks
Smartphone Wireless charger
Camping tent Sleeping bag

A brief history

Cross-selling took off in early catalog retail, where brands placed related items on the same page to prompt bigger orders. As online shopping grew, digital storefronts began doing the same, only smarter. Now, product recommendations are powered by data, showing customers what they’re most likely to want alongside what they’re already buying.

Good to know

Cross-selling works best when it feels relevant. Recommending too many unrelated items can overwhelm or distract shoppers. Instead, focus on quality over quantity, showing a few well-matched suggestions based on what someone’s already viewing, buying, or bundling can lead to better engagement and higher order values.

Know more

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if cross-selling is working?
You’ll usually see the impact in your metrics. Signs it’s working include:Higher average order values over timeIncreased engagement with recommendation sectionsMore multi-item orders at checkoutIf your product suggestions are being ignored or skipped, it might be time to tweak what’s being offered and where.
Where should cross-sell suggestions appear?
Placement matters. Some of the best-performing spots include:On product detail pages (under “You might also like”)In the cart or mini-cart before checkoutPost-purchase confirmation pages or follow-up emailsWherever you add them, just make sure they don’t interrupt the buying flow.
What makes a good cross-sell?
The best cross-sells are relevant and helpful. That usually means:The products naturally go together (like a water bottle with a gym bag)They add convenience or value to the original purchaseThey’re not too expensive or distracting from the main itemKeep it simple; showing one to three smart suggestions is usually enough.