Configuration

Discount allocation & application modes

Understand free item mode vs. spread mode, and product-level vs. order-level discount application at checkout.

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Better Bundles gives you precise control over two separate questions: which components absorb the discount (allocation), and where the discount is applied at checkout (application). This guide explains both.

Allocation: free item mode

In free item mode, the components you mark as free absorb the discount first while everything else stays at full price. This is the natural fit for “buy X, get Y free” offers — the customer sees the free item at $0.00 on their order, which is a powerful message.

Note: If the configured discount ever exceeds the combined value of the free items, the free items are zeroed and the remainder spreads across the paid items — and the editor warns you so you can adjust the configuration.

Allocation: spread mode

In spread mode, the total bundle discount is distributed across all components proportionally to each item's share of the combined price. A $20 discount on a bundle where one item is 60% of the value puts $12 of the discount on that item.

All allocation math runs in integer cents with largest-remainder rounding, which guarantees the line-level discounts always sum exactly to the total discount — no stray pennies on orders, refunds, or reports.

Application: products vs. order

Separately from allocation, each bundle chooses where its discount is applied at checkout:

  • Discount products in bundle — each component line is priced at its allocated (discounted) unit price. Customers see the discounted prices directly on the line items.
  • Apply discount on order — components appear at their natural prices, and the bundle discount is applied as an order-level discount, keeping product lines at full price for reporting.
Tip: Product-level application is the right default for most stores. Choose order-level application if your accounting or 3PL prefers component lines at natural prices. Order-level application is available on the Growth plan and up.

Choosing the right combination

  • Gift with purchase → free item mode + product application (customer sees the $0.00 line).
  • Kit at a bundle price → fixed price + spread mode (every item shows a fair share of savings).
  • Percentage-off set → percentage pricing + spread mode.
  • Clean accounting lines → any allocation + order application.

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