Technology
Navigating Free Domains on Shopify: Can I Still Sell Successfully?
Can I Still Sell in Shopify Using the Free Domain Which Carries
The short answer is yes, you can sell in Shopify even if you use the free domain that includes However, there are several considerations to keep in mind for the long-term health and success of your business. This article will delve into the implications of using a free domain and the benefits of a custom domain for your online store.
Using the Free 30-Day Trial of Shopify
When you sign up for a 30-day free trial of Shopify, you're granted access to some of their free themes and templates that are tailored to your specific needs. While this can be a convenient and cost-effective way to launch your store, it’s important to understand the limitations and potential drawbacks.
Understanding
is a domain name owned by the Shopify eCommerce platform. It's a placeholder that is automatically selected when you first create a store on Shopify. If you choose to use this domain, your store URL will look something like While it's convenient, using a domain with can affect your brand identity and customer perception.
Professionalism and Branding
For the sake of your business and your customers, it's highly recommended that you avoid using a free domain like Once you have a free 30-day trial, you can easily purchase and migrate to a custom domain. Upgrading to a custom domain can significantly enhance your online presence, making your store look more professional and trustworthy.
Impact on Sales
Customers are typically more inclined to trust and engage with websites that have a custom domain, especially if they are comfortable with the practice of purchasing a domain via the provider's platform. Using a domain like may make your site appear less legitimate, potentially deterring visitors from making purchases. According to various studies, visitors are more likely to convert and buy from websites that have a custom domain name.
Steps to Transition to a Custom Domain
After the free 30-day trial, transitioning to a custom domain is a straightforward process. Here are the key steps:
Register a custom domain: You can register a domain name with a registrar such as GoDaddy, Namecheap, or another provider of your choice. Point your domain to your Shopify store: Follow the instructions provided by Shopify to update your domain settings so that it points to your new custom domain. Update settings in Shopify: Ensure that your Shopify store is configured to use your custom domain. Redirect traffic: Consider setting up 301 redirects to seamlessly transfer all previous traffic to your new custom domain.Conclusion
While you can certainly sell on Shopify using the free domain, it's crucial to consider the long-term implications for your business's success. A custom domain can enhance your credibility and customer trust, leading to increased sales and a more robust online presence. If budget is a concern, there are various affordable options available, making it easier than ever to transition to a custom domain.