WooCommerce Checkout Not Working? 8 Common Causes

In shortTest checkout in a private window with all caching off for cart and checkout. Most failures come from caching, a payment gateway setting, or a plugin conflict after an update.

1. Cart and checkout are cached

Cart, checkout and my-account pages must never be cached. Exclude them in your caching plugin and CDN.

2. Place Order button keeps spinning

Usually a JavaScript error. Open the browser console (F12) on the checkout page and look for red errors — they name the plugin or script responsible.

3. Payment gateway errors

Check API keys, test vs live mode and webhook URLs in Stripe or PayPal. Gateways often fail silently after the site moves to a new domain or HTTPS.

4. Cart empties itself

Session or cookie problems — often caused by caching, a security plugin, or a mismatch between www and non-www URLs.

5. Shipping methods missing

Check shipping zones: the customer’s address must match a zone with at least one method enabled.

6. Order emails not sending

WordPress uses PHP mail by default, which many hosts block or send to spam. Install an SMTP plugin and connect a proper mail service.

7. Conflict after an update

Update WooCommerce, its extensions and your theme together. Outdated theme template overrides are listed in WooCommerce → Status.

8. Slow checkout

Too many scripts on checkout pages reduce conversions. Keep checkout lean — no sliders, popups or chat widgets.

Test regularly

Place a real test order every month on mobile. Read why stores get traffic but no sales for the bigger picture.

Need it fixed now? My WooCommerce error fix is $49 per issue, tested with a real order before handover.