Customer Accounts
Let customers create accounts to track orders and save their information.
Overview
Customer accounts provide:
- Order history - View past purchases
- Saved addresses - Faster checkout
- Download access - Digital product downloads
- Profile management - Update email and password
Enabling Customer Accounts
Customer accounts are enabled by default. Customers can:
- Create an account during checkout
- Register at
/account/register - Log in at
/account/login
Account Features
Order History
Customers view all past orders:
- Order number and date
- Items purchased
- Order status
- Tracking information
Access at: Account > Orders
Order Details
Click an order to see:
- Full item list with prices
- Shipping address
- Payment summary
- Download links (for digital products)
- Tracking link (if shipped)
Saved Addresses
Customers can save multiple addresses:
- Home, work, gift recipients
- Set default shipping address
- Set default billing address
Saved addresses appear at checkout for one-click selection.
Profile Management
Customers can update:
- Email address
- Password
- Name
Access at: Account > Profile
Customer Registration
Registration Flow
- Customer visits
/account/register - Enters email and password
- Confirms password
- Account is created immediately
- Redirected to account dashboard
Password Requirements
- Minimum 8 characters
- No other restrictions
Email Verification
Currently, email verification is not required. Customers can use their account immediately.
Guest Checkout
Customers can still checkout without an account:
- Add items to cart
- Proceed to checkout
- Enter shipping info
- Complete payment
- Order confirmation sent to email
After purchase, guests can create an account to access order history.
Checkout with Account
When logged in:
- Add items to cart
- Proceed to checkout
- Select saved address (or enter new)
- Email is pre-filled
- Complete payment
Faster checkout = higher conversion.
Forgot Password
If a customer forgets their password:
- Click "Forgot Password?" on login
- Enter email address
- Receive reset link via email
- Click link to set new password
- Log in with new password
Reset links expire after 1 hour.
Account Security
Password Storage
Passwords are hashed using bcrypt. We never store plain-text passwords.
Session Management
Sessions expire after 30 days of inactivity. Customers can log out from any device.
Data Privacy
Customers can delete their account, which removes all personal data.
Tips
Encourage Registration
- Mention order tracking benefits
- Highlight faster checkout
- Offer loyalty discounts to members
Support Requests
When customers contact you, ask for:
- Order number (not password)
- Email address on account
Guest Conversion
After a guest purchase, the success page prompts: "Create an account to track your order"
This captures customers who prefer to browse anonymously but may want accounts after buying.
Next: Store Settings