Shopify stores: cost and prep
Hiring someone to set up a Shopify store costs $500 to $2,500 for a basic build and $2,500 to $10,000 once products and features add up. The Shopify plan and any paid apps are billed monthly on top. With product photos and details ready, a store can open within 10 days.
Costs at a glance
| Item | Amount | Paid to |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | $500 to $10,000 | Your builder |
| Shopify plan | See shopify.com/pricing | Shopify |
| Paid apps | Varies. You can start with free apps | App makers |
| Payment processing | A percentage of each order | Shopify Payments |
| Domain | About $15 a year | Registrar |
Sources: Shopexperts, Shopify store setup cost, Shopify pricing
What to prepare
- Product photos, ideally both plain-background and in-use shots
- Names, prices, variants such as color and size, and stock counts
- Shipping method and rates, including any free shipping threshold
- Refund and exchange policy
- Business details and a bank account for Shopify Payments
- Logo and brand colors
Scope questions to ask
“Shopify setup” means different things to different people. Ask how many products get loaded, whether payments, shipping and tax are included, how many apps get configured, and whether a test order is part of the handoff.
The Sage Signatures Shopify package
- From $2,000, live in 10 days
- Theme design, 20 products, payments, shipping and tax, 3 essential apps
- Extra products at $5 to $10 each
- Care plans from $99 a month, first month free
Common questions
Is there an alternative to Shopify?
With only a few products, a regular site with payment links can work. Once you manage inventory and shipping across many products, Shopify is easier.
How long does DIY setup take?
First-timers usually lose the most time on payments, shipping and tax. Product entry grows with your catalog.