Virtual Shopping Cart

Definition

A virtual shopping cart is the part of an online store or ordering system that keeps track of the products, quantities and options a customer selects before checkout. It typically calculates an order total and passes the order into checkout and payment processing.

Cart, checkout and gateway

The cart organizes the order. Checkout collects the details needed to complete it. A payment gateway handles payment information and connects the payment flow to processing. These functions can be bundled in one platform, but they are different parts of the purchase journey.

Accelerated checkout options such as Shop Pay can reduce repeat data entry. Restaurant ordering platforms such as Olo combine ordering workflows with restaurant-specific systems. Compatibility depends on the platform and payment setup.

Related payment guidance

Continue with explore payment gateway options, or return to the payments glossary.