Average Order Size

February 9, 2026

Written by

Marpipe Team

average reading time: 2 minutes

Average order size is the average number of items per order. Learn how creative, bundles, and merchandising lift basket size.

MArpipe Team

February 9, 2026

Brief Definition

Average order size measures the average count of items per order. It complements AOV by showing quantity growth. Bigger baskets improve unit economics and shipping efficiency.

Understanding Average Order Size

Average order size responds to cross‑sells, bundles, and clarity around complementary items. Catalog templates and product‑level video can display pairings that encourage multi‑item buys. Clear price presentation and transparent promos nudge shoppers to add one more item. PDP recommendations that match the ad’s promise reduce friction and increase attachment. Inventory accuracy and fast page speed protect intent at checkout.

Treat average order size as a system outcome rather than a single tactic. Use creative to surface sets and add‑ons naturally, not as clutter. Keep CTAs and variant selectors obvious so adding items feels effortless. Test messaging like “complete the set” or “frequently bought together” for lift. Measure order size by product set and traffic source to see where strategies resonate.

Why Average Order Size matters

Average order size matters because larger baskets improve unit economics and shipping efficiency. It compounds revenue without relying solely on price increases. It also reveals where merchandising and creative pairings are working so you can scale them.

• Profit: Spreads fulfillment cost over more items.
• Growth: Improves AOV and POAS without more traffic.
• Insight: Reveals where bundles or add‑ons resonate.

How to Calculate Average Order Size

• Formula: Average Order Size = Total Items Sold ÷ Number of Orders
• Track alongside AOV to understand price vs. quantity drivers.

Key Takeaways

• Average order size is the average number of items per order, indicating basket building and merchandising effectiveness.
• Increase it through bundling, upsells, related product recommendations, and clear cross-sell messaging.
• Track by segment and channel to identify where customers naturally buy more.
• Use catalog ads to showcase related products and encourage larger baskets.

FAQ

01

Does free shipping change average order size?

Often—thresholds encourage extra items to qualify.

02

Should I push bundles in prospecting for average order size?

Test it, but bundles often work better in retargeting once intent is established.

03

Which templates help average order size most?

Those that surface complementary items and price clarity without crowding the design.

04

How should I segment average order size?

Read by product set, campaign, and source to find where pairings work.

05

Does subscription impact average order size?

Sometimes—subscriptions can reduce add‑on behavior per order while increasing long‑term value.