What is express checkout?

Over 70% of U.S. online shoppers abandon their shopping carts after adding an item at an e-commerce site, according to the Baymard Institute.¹ There could be many reasons why shoppers don't go through with the purchase, but a main frustration is the checkout process or payment flow, the study showed. Simply put, if it's not easy to pay, there’s always the risk of walking away.

Enter express checkout, also known as fast checkout. It lets customers complete purchases with just a few clicks, significantly reducing the time spent at checking out online. and helping to avoid cart abandonment.

This article will explore what express checkout is, how it works, and safety tips to consider.

How does express checkout work?

Express checkout lets customers complete transactions in just a few clicks.

The process begins when a customer selects products, adds them to their cart, and proceeds to checkout. Instead of being redirected to a series of forms, express checkout relies on stored payment and shipping information (often through digital wallets or payment providers like PayPal) to autofill the necessary details. At checkout, the customer simply reviews the information, click to confirm the purchase, and the transaction is completed.

This process can save time and may reduce potential errors during data entry. Digital wallets play a crucial role in express checkout by securely storing payment information, which can be quickly accessed during the checkout process, significantly speeding up the transaction.

Tips for using express checkout

To make the most of express checkout services, consider the following online payment tips:

1. Keep payment information up to date. Ensure that payment card information, billing addresses, and other payment details are current and accurate. This helps avoid any payment failures or delays during the checkout process. Regularly updating this information is especially important for those who frequently use express checkout services.
2. Understand security measures. Before using an express checkout service, take the time to understand the security measures it offers. Look for indicators of secure transactions, such as encryption and two-factor authentication (2FA), which help protect sensitive information during the payment process.
3. Stay organized and track purchases. Keep track of purchases by saving digital receipts. This is particularly useful for returns, warranty claims, or simply managing a budget. Some checkout providers will keep track of purchases within an account — for example, PayPal users can view past transactions within the app or via their account online.

Misconceptions about express checkout

Some common misconceptions about express checkout may cause hesitation among consumers. Here’s a closer look:

1. Security concerns. One common misconception is that express checkout is not safe. In reality, reputable express checkout providers use robust security measures to protect information. These providers must adhere to stringent industry standards, such as encryption and 2FA, to ensure that information is safeguarded throughout the transaction process.
2. Data privacy. Some shoppers worry that using express checkout services might expose their personal data to risks. However, services like PayPal have clear and transparent privacy policies, ensuring that information is protected. However, it is always advisable to read the privacy policy of any provider to understand how data will be used and secured.
3. Accidental payments. There is also a fear that express checkout might lead to accidental payments due to its speed. Most express checkout systems incorporate confirmation steps before finalizing a transaction, giving users a chance to review and confirm their purchase before it's completed. This ensures that payments are deliberate and accurate.

Fast checkout with PayPal

Express checkout offers a fast, convenient way to complete online purchases. By storing payment information securely and reducing the number of steps needed to finalize a transaction, express checkout helps reduce cart abandonment and provides a seamless shopping experience.

One option for express checkout is Fastlane by PayPal. With Fastlane, there's no need for passwords, new account setups, or logins. This service streamlines the online shopping checkout process so purchases can be completed quickly and efficiently. Moreover, shoppers benefit from PayPal's world-class security, with transactions encrypted to protect sensitive information, ensuring that fast checkout doesn't compromise safety.