When you check out with multiple items on 1stDibs, we create a multi-item order — one unified checkout experience with a single payment authorization and a combined order total. Behind the scenes, each item gets its own item order ID so it can be tracked and fulfilled independently. This means you may see separate statuses, shipping updates, or communications for each item, even though they were purchased together.
What is a multi-item order?
A multi-item order groups all the items from your cart into one seamless checkout. You'll see a single payment authorization for the full estimated total, and all your items are managed together until they're each ready to confirm.
Why isn't my order confirmed yet?
A multi-item order confirms only once every item is ready. If even one item is still pending, the entire order remains unconfirmed. Not sure what "ready" means? See the next section.
This ensures:
- Your final total is accurate before any payment is collected
- You're charged once, rather than in multiple separate transactions
- All logistics, like shipping, are fully resolved before confirmation
What does "not ready" mean?
An item may not be ready to confirm for a few common reasons:
- Shipping quote required — A custom shipping quote is needed and may be pending with the seller or 1stDibs
- Quote approval pending — You need to review and accept a shipping quote before the item can move forward
- Seller action required — The seller needs to confirm the item is still available or provide additional details before the order can proceed
Until every item in your order reaches a "ready to confirm" state, the order will remain on hold.
What happens with payment?
At checkout:
- Your card is authorized for the full estimated order total — but not charged until the order is fully confirmed
- This ensures you're only billed once the complete and final cost is known
What can I do to help move things forward?
- Keep an eye out for any shipping quotes that need your approval
- Respond promptly if any action is required from you
- Reach out to support if something appears stalled
What if one item is stalled and holding up the rest of my order?
If a single item is preventing your entire multi-item order from confirming, the only way to unblock the remaining items is to cancel the stalled order. Once canceled, the other items will be free to move through the confirmation process. The canceled item will need to be purchased again as a new, separate order.
To get this process started, please reach out to our support team — we'll help identify the stalled item and coordinate the cancellation so your other items can continue moving forward.
Can items ship separately?
Yes — once your order is confirmed, items may ship individually depending on the sellers involved. Because each item has its own item order ID, it can be tracked and fulfilled on its own timeline. You can find all of your order details and individual item order IDs on your orders page.