How to charge a setup shipping fee for first orders

If you want to cover extra processing or setup costs for first-time customers, you can add a one-time setup shipping fee for their first order. This guide explains how to configure it in WooCommerce using the Dotstore Flat Rate Shipping plugin.

Some businesses have initial handling, packaging, or setup expenses for a customer’s very first purchase. Adding a setup shipping fee for first orders helps recover those costs while keeping future orders at regular shipping rates.

Preconditions

Before you begin, make sure:

• Flat Rate Shipping Plugin is installed and activated.
• Your WooCommerce store is set up and working with at least one active shipping zone.
• You know your setup fee amount (e.g., $5, $10) and whether it should be taxable.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Set Up

Step 1: Open the Plugin Settings

1. Go to WooCommerce → Settings → Shipping.
2. Select your Shipping Zone.
3. Click on Add Shipping Method and choose Flat Rate (provided by the Dotstore plugin).

Step 2: Configure the Fee

1. Enter a Method Title, such as First Order Setup Fee .
2. Set the Cost (e.g., $100 ).
3. If the fee should include tax, enable the Tax Status option.

Step 3: Add the First Order Condition

1. Scroll down to the Advanced Settings section.

2. From the feature list, select the First Order Fee option to check.

   

Step 4: Save and Test

1. Click Save Changes.
2. Test with a new account to ensure the setup fee only applies to the first purchase.

Alternate Uses

• Apply a welcome package shipping cost for first-time buyers.
• Offer free shipping for first orders instead (by setting the cost to $0).
• Use a higher setup fee for products that require special installation or handling.

Business Benefits

• Cost recovery for initial handling, packaging, or admin time.
• Fair pricing — future orders don’t carry extra charges.
• Customizable rules allow flexibility across product types and regions.

Expected Outcome

When a customer with no prior orders places their first checkout:

• The First Order Setup Fee will appear in the shipping section.
• Repeat purchases from the same customer will only show regular shipping rates.