Shopify first entered the Irish market in 2011, and has since become one of the most popular e-commerce solutions in the country. Though this was during the height of the Celtic Tiger, it’s not difficult to see why so many people flocked to Shopify as their website provider of choice – with its easy-to-use tools and affordable pricing, it’s easily one of the best e-commerce solutions on the market today.
Shopify Website Building
If you’re new to Shopify, it can be daunting getting started building your website. Not only will you have to learn how to write HTML and CSS (two very different coding languages), but also how to customize certain aspects of your site. One way around this is by using a pre-made template. However, if you opt for a premade template, be sure to customize it in some way so that it isn’t too similar to any other website in Ireland – which would confuse potential customers. To help get started on building your store, check out Shopify’s very own YouTube channel with loads of information on creating an online business.
Can I Use my .IE Domain Name with Shopify?
Shopify’s terms of service state that you will be responsible for collecting and remitting any taxes if your business is outside of Ireland. As a result, if your business is based outside of Ireland but your website is hosted by Shopify’s servers, it’s likely that you’ll need to collect VAT on all sales made through your Shopify store. How much tax will you need to collect? And how will you handle returns? You’ll have to consult with an accountant or tax advisor in order to figure out these details! Make sure you understand what’s required under Irish law before setting up shop.
Is there VAT if my business is based outside of Ireland but my website is hosted by Shopify’s servers?
Shopify has extensive information on VAT and whether or not you’ll be subject to it based on your business’s location. If you’re located outside of Ireland but wish to register a .ie domain name, you’ll still be required to charge VAT if your Shopify store is registered in an EU country. You can read more about that here: Are You Required To Charge VAT For Your Store? If that’s not an option, Shopify also recommends checking out Squarespace and Wix, which both allow you to keep your personal and professional sites separate.
Is it easy to learn shopify?
Shopify is incredibly easy to learn and it’s a one-stop solution if you want a do-it-yourself ecommerce platform. There are many resources available online that will teach you how to use Shopify, including several videos on Shopify’s website. If you know how to register a domain name and set up a hosting account, then setting up your own shop will be intuitive and easy. While there are some professionals who work with ecommerce solutions, most merchants tend to take advantage of the DIY aspect of Shopify. You don’t need any special skills or previous experience in order to get started with an online store from scratch.
How soon can you set up a Shopify store?
Shopify allows business owners to “create” their store in only five minutes. There is also a 30-day free trial, so you can test out Shopify before making any kind of commitment. However, you do need to provide credit card information at checkout. If you’re not ready to commit right away, start your trial now and see if it’s something that works well with your ecommerce business! To get set up best and fastest, hire a pro!
This one might be obvious, but it’s important. If you’re looking for an ongoing partnership, make sure your potential new hire is on board with that. You don’t want to bring someone in only to lose them halfway through your project because they need something else in their schedule. A commitment of 6 months at minimum is ideal; 2-3 years is even better if you can swing it. And, of course, payment isn’t everything—make sure you ask candidates about their goals and career goals too! With some luck (and some follow up interviews), you should end up with not just someone who can do great work but someone who wants to stick around for awhile too. I really hope that this helped you to realise things to consider before hiring a web developer. Also, make sure to choose the right Shopify web designer!
By the way, I build Shopify Stores for business’s so don’t hesitate to reach out.