Black Fridat Cyber Monday Tips to Boost Your Online Store Profits

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are coming fast — and if you’re running an online store, this weekend can make or break your Q4.

The truth is, shoppers are already waiting for the deals. Last year, online sales during BFCM hit record highs, and customers spent billions in just a few days. For many online sellers, that means one thing: an opportunity to win big — if your store is ready.

But here’s the catch: competition is tougher than ever. Every brand is fighting for attention, inboxes are crowded with promo emails, and ad costs skyrocket. So how do you stand out and actually boost your profits instead of just joining the noise?

That’s exactly what this guide will cover. Below, you’ll find 15 practical BFCM tips you can apply right now — from optimizing your store to planning campaigns that convert.

When Is BFCM in 2025?

Let’s get the dates straight — because if you don’t know when the weekend is, you’ll miss the prep window.

• Black Friday 2025 lands on November 28.
• Cyber Monday 2025 follows on December 1.

Yes, those are the anchor days. But here’s what many brands do now: extend the hype period. Think “Black Week,” “Cyber Week,” or early access deals for loyal customers. So while Nov 28–Dec 1 are the core, your campaign timeline should stretch beyond that.

Why BFCM Matters for Sellers (2024 Data + 2025 Outlook)

Let me walk you through why BFCM is still a beast — with last year’s numbers, and what’s brewing for 2025.

What Happened during BFCM in 2024 (Reality Check)

We can’t ignore what’s already been proven. Here’s what the 2024 holiday season taught us:

• Online retail spending from Nov 1 to Dec 31, 2024 hit $241.4 billion, up 8.7% over the previous year.
• During that season, mobile transactions accounted for 54.5% of online purchases. In other words, more than half of shoppers were on phones.
• Adobe’s report also flagged the growth in flexible payments (like BNPL), stronger discounts in major categories, and broader discounting earlier in the season.

Source: Adobe

These numbers show two big things:

1. The holiday season is a goldmine — the bulk of online spending is concentrated in these 2 months.
2. Mobile is no longer optional — if your mobile experience stinks, you lose more than half your potential sales.

What to Watch for 2025 (Forecasts & Trends)

Now, let’s peek into 2025: what are the analysts and reports saying might happen?

• Adobe’s “Holiday Insights 2025” suggests continuing growth in online holiday sales.
• Deloitte projects that U.S. holiday retail sales (Nov–Jan) will land between $1.61 to $1.62 trillion, with e-commerce expected to grow 7% to 9% to roughly $305 billion.
• But not everyone is super bullish: eMarketer calls for a more cautious view, estimating only 1.2% growth in U.S. retail for Nov–Dec 2025 (which implies that the battleground will be tighter).
• On consumer behavior:
  • Klaviyo predicts that 54% of consumers plan to use AI tools during the holiday season (price comparisons, product search, recommendations).
  • MarketWake’s BFCM 2025 guide forecasts “over 53% of online purchases will come via smartphones” — so mobile dominance continues.
  • Many brands are preparing for more early shopping behavior (shoppers jump in before Nov), and stretched discount periods.

What This Means for Your Online Business

So, putting the past + predictions together, here’s what you as a store owner should take away:

• The scale is still there. Even if growth moderates, online sales will remain huge — your competitors are going after the same pie.
• Mobile-first is mandatory. The fact that 54.5% of 2024 purchases came via mobile means you can’t skimp there. One slow-loading mobile page or clunky checkout, and you lose the sale.
• Early is better. Because consumers are starting earlier, your prep can’t wait. You should have campaigns, creatives, email series ready well ahead.
• AI, personalization, smart offers will be expected. As data tools become more accessible, customers will expect that your deals feel “for them,” not just “for everyone.”
• Margin pressure is real. With some forecasts being cautious, discounts will be more competitive. So you’ll need smarter bundling, upsells, and back-end efficiencies.

15 BFCM Tips to Boost Your Store Profits

Part 1: Get Your Store Ready (Foundation First)

1. Speed up your site

On Black Friday, patience is in short supply. Shoppers are juggling multiple tabs, scanning deals, and clicking fast. If your store takes more than a few seconds to load, they’ll bounce.

What you can do:

• Run a quick test with Google PageSpeed Insights or GTmetrix.
• Compress images and use next-gen formats like WebP.
• Make sure your hosting can handle traffic spikes — this is not the time for cheap shared hosting.

Think of speed as the first impression: if your page loads fast, you’ve already earned trust.

2. Optimize for mobile

More than half of online sales during the 2024 holiday season came from smartphones. That means your store has to look and work flawlessly on a small screen.

What you can do:

• Test your checkout flow on your own phone — not just desktop.
• Make buttons big enough to tap easily, and don’t overload with pop-ups.
• Keep product pages clean: short bullet points, bold CTAs, and fast image loading.

If it feels smooth on mobile, you’ll capture the majority of BFCM shoppers. If it doesn’t, they’ll leave without hesitation.

3. Check inventory levels early

Imagine running an ad for your bestselling product, only to sell out on the first morning of Black Friday. Not only do you lose sales, but you also lose customer trust.

What you can do:

• Run a forecast now based on last year’s sales and expected growth.
• Double-check lead times with your suppliers or fulfillment partner.
• Keep a few backup SKUs ready in case your hero product runs out.

Shoppers hate “out of stock” messages — especially during BFCM. Inventory prep keeps your promises intact.

👉 Worried about supply chain delays? Many sellers rely on HyperSKU to ensure fast fulfillment and avoid BFCM stockouts.

4. Simplify checkout

Even if your marketing works and your product sells, a messy checkout can ruin everything. Extra fields, forced account creation, or clunky payment options are deal-killers.

What you can do:

• Offer guest checkout.
• Add express payment methods like PayPal, Apple Pay, or Shop Pay.
• Cut unnecessary form fields — you don’t really need someone’s “company name” for a T-shirt order.

Your goal: make buying effortless. Fewer clicks = more conversions.

5. Stress-test your store

Traffic surges on BFCM can be brutal. A site that runs fine with 50 visitors can crash with 5,000. Don’t let your best sales weekend turn into downtime.

What you can do:

• Ask your developer or hosting provider to run a load test.
• Have a backup plan in case your site slows (like a cached version of pages).
• Double-check that your plugins/apps are up to date and won’t break under pressure.

This step often gets skipped, but it’s what separates prepared stores from panicked ones.

Part 2: Drive Traffic & Build Hype

6. Plan email campaigns in advance

BFCM inboxes are war zones. Shoppers get flooded with deals from every direction, and the only way to stand out is to prepare early. Last-minute blasts rarely work—you’ll just get buried.

What you can do:

• Map out a campaign calendar now, with teaser emails, launch day emails, and last-chance reminders.
• Use tools like Klaviyo or Mailchimp to schedule and segment.
• Craft subject lines that spark curiosity instead of screaming “SALE!!!”.
• Warm up your list in October so your messages land in inboxes, not spam.

7. Leverage SMS marketing

While email is crowded, SMS still cuts through the noise. Open rates hover around 98%, and people check texts instantly. A well-timed text can bring shoppers back before they forget.

What you can do:

• Collect phone numbers early with opt-in pop-ups or at checkout.
• Use platforms like Postscript or Attentive.
• Keep messages short and punchy: “Your BFCM deal ends in 3 hours—don’t miss it.”
• Don’t overdo it—two or three SMS per campaign is plenty.

You can send the best promo in the world, but if your products can’t be delivered on time, customers won’t come back.

That’s why a reliable fulfillment partner like HyperSKU matters—fast shipping keeps your marketing promises real.

8. Use retargeting ads strategically

Many visitors will browse and leave. Retargeting pulls them back when they’re ready to buy. But sloppy retargeting (showing the same ad 20 times) just burns your budget and annoys shoppers.

What you can do:

• Set up retargeting on Meta Ads and Google Ads.
• Segment: cart abandoners see checkout reminders, while product viewers see “still interested?” ads.
• Cap frequency—3–5 impressions per shopper is enough.
• Use dynamic ads to showcase the exact items they viewed.

9. Optimize for SEO before BFCM

Paid ads get expensive in November, but organic traffic is free—if you rank. Many shoppers start searching for “best BFCM deals on [product]” weeks before the holiday. If you wait until November to optimize, it’s too late.

What you can do:

• Update product titles and descriptions with relevant keywords. Use SEMrush or Ahrefs to find long-tail phrases.
• Create a dedicated BFCM landing page now, and let Google index it before the rush.
• Add internal links from your blog or homepage to this BFCM page.
• Write at least one “gift guide” or “holiday shopping” blog post to capture seasonal search traffic.

Part 3: Maximize Conversions

10. Bundle products for higher AOV

Bundles are a win-win: shoppers feel like they’re getting more value, and you raise your average order value without slashing prices. But if you don’t plan bundles properly, they can become a fulfillment nightmare.

What you can do:

• Group complementary items (e.g., phone case + charger + screen protector).
• Offer tiered bundles (Buy 2, Get 1 Free) to encourage higher cart sizes.
• Test bundles on a small scale before promoting them heavily.

11. Offer flexible payment options

Picture this: a shopper has $200 worth of items in their cart but hesitates at checkout. Flexible payment options can push them over the line. Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) is now a norm, not a bonus.

What you can do:

• Add BNPL services like Klarna, Afterpay, or Shop Pay Installments.
• Make sure your checkout supports PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
• Highlight these options on product pages—not just checkout—to reduce hesitation.

12. Add urgency & scarcity

Shoppers know BFCM deals don’t last. If your store doesn’t highlight this, they’ll “think about it” and forget. Urgency pushes action, but it has to feel real, not gimmicky.

What you can do:

• Use countdown timers with apps like Hurrify or Countdown Timer Ultimate.
• Show low-stock alerts (“Only 5 left in stock”).
• Run flash deals with limited-time discounts.

Done right, urgency creates FOMO without damaging trust.

13. Upsell & cross-sell at checkout

BFCM isn’t just about discounts—it’s about maximizing each transaction. An upsell at checkout is the perfect moment: shoppers already decided to buy, and suggesting an add-on feels natural.

What you can do:

• Add “frequently bought together” prompts on product pages.
• Offer relevant upgrades (e.g., larger size, premium version).
• Use tools like ReConvert or Bold Upsell.
• Keep offers relevant—irrelevant add-ons feel pushy.

👉 And remember: smooth fulfillment matters here. With HyperSKU, your upsells and bundles ship together seamlessly, keeping customers happy.

Part 4: Retain Customers & Scale Post-BFCM

14. Strengthen your customer support

BFCM brings in a flood of first-time shoppers, and their experience will decide if they ever come back. Slow replies or unclear policies can ruin the relationship before it even starts.

What you can do:

• Add a live chat option with tools like Tidio or Gorgias.
• Prepare canned responses for FAQs like “Where’s my order?” or “What’s the return policy?”
• Extend support hours during peak shopping days.

Great support isn’t just problem-solving—it’s marketing in disguise.

15. Collect social proof & reviews

The BFCM wave will bring new buyers. Don’t let their experience fade away—turn it into social proof. Reviews build trust year-round and make your next campaign easier.

What you can do:

• Use review apps like Judge.me or Loox.
• Encourage reviews with post-purchase emails.
• Repurpose customer photos and testimonials on social media and product pages.
• Make your unboxing experience memorable: consider personalized thank-you cards, branded packaging, or custom tags that make customers feel unique.

👉 HyperSKU’s Brandlift Package allows you to customize thank-you cards, packaging, and tags, giving customers a special experience that encourages reviews and social sharing.

5 Best Products to Dropship During BFCM 2025

If you’re thinking about starting an online business from scratch, BFCM is one of the best times to give it a try. Dropshipping makes it possible to test products without the headache of stocking inventory—your supplier takes care of the storage, packing, and shipping, and you only buy after a customer orders. In other words, you can move fast, ride the holiday shopping wave, and see which products actually sell.

Here are some categories that tend to shine during BFCM:

1. Print-on-Demand Products

Shoppers love giving gifts that feel personal. A custom mug with a name, a holiday hoodie with a funny slogan, or a phone case designed for a specific vibe—these little touches make products feel one-of-a-kind.

Great picks: custom T-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and tote bags.

People are on the hunt for thoughtful gifts, and personalized items hit the sweet spot between unique and affordable. HyperSKU POD helps sellers launch custom products without worrying about inventory or logistics.

• Curious about the possibilities? Check out Rachel’s success story, where she turned her online influence into a fast-growing fashion line.
• Or see how a charity leveraged POD to hit $60K in just 30 days with HyperSKU POD.

If T-shirts are on your list, you may also find our Shirt Printing Guide useful—it breaks down the most popular printing techniques.

2. Health & Beauty

The holiday season is when people want to look and feel their best—or gift self-care products to loved ones. Plus, the “new year, new me” mindset kicks in right after.

Great picks: Skincare kits, facial rollers, mini massage devices, blue-light glasses, essential oil diffusers.

These items make great gift sets, and they’re lightweight enough to ship quickly during peak season.

3. Home & Office Essentials

With remote and hybrid work still shaping lifestyles, home and office upgrades are in demand. BFCM shoppers also look for practical buys alongside splurge items.

Great picks: Air purifiers, ergonomic desk gear, smart home gadgets, organizers.

These are higher-ticket items that people often wait to buy until discounts hit.

4. Pet Products

Let’s be honest—many people spend as much on their pets as they do on family. And holiday-themed pet items? They sell fast.

Great picks: Festive pet outfits, interactive toys, grooming kits, feeding accessories.

Pet owners love spoiling their pets, and seasonal products bring out the impulse buyers. If you want more inspiration, check out our 2025 guide on dropshipping pet products for trending items and tips on selling them online.

5. Electronics Accessories

Electronics are BFCM bestsellers every year, but accessories are the hidden gems. They’re cheaper, giftable, and perfect as last-minute add-ons.

Great picks: Wireless earbuds, charging stations, phone stands, smartwatch bands, portable power banks.

Small tech gadgets are classic stocking stuffers, and everyone’s upgrading devices around this time.

💡 Quick tip: Look for products that are lightweight, durable, and gift-ready. Those are the items that ship smoothly, survive the holiday rush, and actually convert during the busiest shopping weekend of the year.

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid During BFCM

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are massive opportunities, but they come with their own set of challenges. Knowing what to avoid can save you a lot of headaches—and lost revenue.

1. Mismanaging Inventory

Underestimating demand can lead to stockouts, while overestimating can leave you with unsold inventory. One seller shared their experience of losing $15K in profit last BFCM due to overstocking and poor preparation (source:Reddit).
Tip: Base your inventory on realistic sales forecasts and keep a buffer for unexpected demand. For a deeper dive into best practices, check out our guide to dropshipping inventory management.

2. Ignoring Customer Support

More traffic usually means more questions. Ignoring customer inquiries can result in negative reviews and lost sales.
Tip: Make sure your support team is ready, or set up auto-responses for common questions.

3. Running Untested Promotions

Launching discounts or ads without testing can waste your budget.
Tip: Try small campaigns first, analyze results, then scale the ones that work.

4. Overcomplicating Checkout

Lengthy forms, forced account creation, or limited payment options can kill conversions.
Tip: Keep checkout simple with guest options and popular payment methods like PayPal or Apple Pay.

5. Neglecting Mobile Optimization

A large portion of shoppers will be on mobile. Poor mobile experience means lost sales.
Tip: Test your store on multiple devices, make buttons easy to tap, and avoid excessive pop-ups.

Final Thoughts

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are your chance to make the most of the busiest shopping days of the year—but preparation is everything. From optimizing your store for speed and mobile, to planning inventory, running tested promotions, and avoiding common pitfalls, every step counts. The stores that plan ahead not only boost sales during BFCM, but also build trust and loyalty that lasts well beyond the holidays.

If you’re ready to kick off your BFCM preparations, HyperSKU provides support to help sellers launch products quickly and streamline their operations. Register today to get started and access everything you need to sell confidently this holiday season.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is BFCM in 2025?

Black Friday 2025 falls on November 29, and Cyber Monday follows on December 2. Planning early is key to capturing the holiday rush.

2. Do I need to hold inventory for BFCM?

Not necessarily. Many sellers use dropshipping or print-on-demand to test products without upfront inventory costs.

3. How can I optimize my store for BFCM traffic?

Focus on site speed, mobile responsiveness, simplified checkout, and tested promotions. These factors help reduce cart abandonment and improve conversions.

4. Which products sell best during BFCM?

Trending categories include print-on-demand items, health & beauty, home & office essentials, pet products, and electronics accessories. Lightweight, giftable, and unique items often perform best.

5. How do I avoid common mistakes during BFCM?

Plan inventory carefully, test your promotions, provide strong customer support, and make sure your website can handle traffic surges. Also, optimize for mobile and simplify checkout.