Many retailers are now offering a Buy Online, Pick up in Store (BOPIS) option, linking their online experience with the advantage of their physical store locations to get orders to customers quickly, efficiently and safely. BOPIS allows retailers to leverage their stores as distribution centers for online orders, match the convenience of fast shipping (with even faster returns) and eliminate shipping costs for their business and their customers. Inference virtual agents optimize the BOPIS process by automating orders, helping customers find the most convenient location to pick up their items, sending store directions via SMS, and alerting store associates to their arrival in the parking lot or inside the store.