How to start an online store

In recent years, entrepreneurs from all over the world have flocked to e-commerce, and it’s easy to see why. According to Digital Commerce 360, consumers spent $4.29 trillion online in a pandemic-fueled 2020, up from nearly $3.46 trillion the previous year.

E-commerce appeals to people for a variety of reasons, not just the possible cash rewards. Many would-be online sellers are pulled in by the flexibility and independence that launching an e-commerce website can provide: you can work from anywhere in the globe, grow at your speed, and get to be your boss.

Shopify is one of the best places to start your business online and a Shopify Digital Agency can help you set up your store easily.

Are you thinking about opening an online store but aren’t sure where to start? Here are some pointers on how to get started with an online store.

A domain name

Your domain name is more than just an internet address for customers to discover your store; it’s also your company’s online identity. It can help you appear more professional and establish instant credibility with your audience, but make sure you choose a name that is consistent with your brand and easy to remember for your customers.

A web host

Your store will “live” online with a web host, who will operate as a digital landlord for all of your material (like files or images). This is a service provided by hosting companies; however, many domain registrars and store builders also supply hosting services, making it simple to cross this item off your to-do list. There are a few factors to consider while choosing a web host or e-platform:

Tools

Does the platform provide you with all of the tools and applications such as Woocommerce or Shopify that you’ll need to make your business a success? Is it possible to utilize it to establish marketing campaigns, manage inventory, sell across numerous channels, and receive payment? Is it possible to automate sales tax, personalize your checkout process, or include online chat? In other words, can the platform provide the specific functions needed to help run your business efficiently? The right platform will depend on your business model. Speaking with Tom Rab who runs a number of ecommerce stores including PupHood UK – he said the primary driver of whether to use a dedicated platform like Shopify or an open platform like WordPress will depend on the business setup. If you’re looking at a simple website with strong analytical data and integrations whilst requiring little technical knowledge, Shopify can be a good platform to use. Whereas if you’re wanting maximise flexibility in your development toolset then WordPress with Woocommerce will win out.

Price

Does the platform offer a pricing plan that matches your eCommerce requirements while remaining cost-effective? Is the plan equipped with the essential marketing and business management resources?

Design

Is it possible for the platform to create a store that is both visually beautiful and functional? Is it possible to start with a large range of user-friendly eCommerce website templates? Can it use catchy designs in promoting the visual outlook of your store?

Mobile Functionality

Does your website builder support mobile? Will customers be able to navigate your store without difficulty on their smartphones? Mobile functionality is increasingly important with it playing a significant factor in your presence in Google.

SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificate

SSL is a security technology that allows your customers’ browsers and your store to establish a secure, encrypted connection. This is required to accept payments, but don’t worry—many web hosts (or online store builders) can supply it for you.

Something to offer for sale

Before starting an online business or considering it, you should have decided on what you are going to sell. You should know if they are products you would be making yourself, or if you would be serving as a middle man. These are a few factors you must have settled. It would help you to determine who your potential buyers are.

Wrap Up

With everything set up, it would be a wise decision to test run your online store. Get a few friends to place orders, you can even place an order yourself. Make sure everything is running fine. You are good to go with these steps. You see, starting an online store is not as difficult as it appears.