Shopify is one of the best-known platforms for running an online shop. It handles the cart, checkout, payments and order management, so you can focus on your products. But it is not the right answer for every business, so here is an honest look at when it fits.
When Shopify makes sense
- You have products people can order without a conversation. Items with clear prices, sizes and options suit an online shop well.
- You can fulfil orders reliably. That means stock you can count on, packaging, and a delivery or collection arrangement that works.
- You want to reach customers beyond your local area. A shop works around the clock and is not limited to people who can visit you.
- You want to take payment up front. Card payments at checkout mean no chasing invoices for small orders.
When it might not be the right fit
- Most of your work needs a quote. Trades and bespoke services are usually better served by a good website with a quote form.
- You only have a handful of products. A simple website with an order or enquiry form may be enough to start with.
- You don't have time to manage orders. An online shop is a commitment: orders, stock, questions and returns need handling promptly.
What it costs to run
Shopify charges its own monthly plan fee, paid directly to Shopify, plus payment processing fees on sales. Check Shopify's current pricing page for the up-to-date figures, as plans change. On top of that you may choose paid apps or a premium theme, and you will have your usual costs of stock, packaging and postage.
What a good shop needs
- Clear product photos and honest descriptions
- Accurate delivery prices and times, set up as delivery rules so customers see them at checkout
- Clear policies: returns, refunds, delivery and privacy
- Sensible categories so customers can find things quickly
- Product pages written for search, so people can find you on Google
- A product feed for Google Shopping, if you want your products to appear there
Start small and grow
You don't need to put everything online on day one. Many businesses start with their best-selling or easiest-to-post products, learn how orders and delivery work in practice, then add more.
If you are not sure whether an online shop is right for you, it is worth talking it through before you commit. Sometimes the honest answer is that a website with a good enquiry form will do the job better.