> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.upstackdata.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# initiate_checkout Event

> Track when a visitor starts the checkout process

Fires when a visitor starts the checkout process. This event marks the transition from browsing to buying and is critical for checkout funnel analysis.

<Note>
  **Shopify:** Automatically tracked when customers click the checkout button or land on the checkout page.
</Note>

## JavaScript

```javascript theme={null}
window._upstack('track', 'initiate_checkout', {
  items: [
    {
      id: 'SKU_12345',
      name: 'Classic Cotton Tee',
      price: 34.99,
      quantity: 2
    },
    {
      id: 'SKU_67890',
      name: 'Running Socks',
      price: 14.99,
      quantity: 1
    }
  ],
  value: 84.97,
  currency: 'USD'
});
```

## Properties

| Property | Type   | Required | Description            |
| -------- | ------ | -------- | ---------------------- |
| items    | array  | Yes      | Products in checkout   |
| value    | number | Yes      | Cart subtotal          |
| currency | string | Yes      | ISO 4217 currency code |

## When to Fire

* Checkout button click
* Checkout page load
* Express checkout initiation (Shop Pay, Apple Pay)

## Related Events

* [view\_cart](/pixel/events/view-cart) — Before starting checkout
* [add\_shipping\_info](/pixel/events/add-shipping-info) — After entering shipping details
* [add\_payment\_info](/pixel/events/add-payment-info) — After entering payment details
* [purchase](/pixel/events/purchase) — When order is completed