Shopify Store Setup & Design Blogs

Launching your first Shopify store in the U.S.? Follow this complete store setup checklist for smooth design, setup, and launch. 

Starting an online store in the U.S. is exciting, but without the right plan, your launch can get messy fast. Shopify makes it easier than most platforms, but you still need to set things up in the right order.
  1. 1. Choose the Right Shopify Plan

    Before touching the design, decide on your subscription. Shopify offers Basic, Shopify, and Advanced plans.

    Basic works for small startups testing the waters.

    Shopify is ideal if you expect steady sales from the start.

    Advanced suits scaling businesses with higher order volumes.

    Pro tip: Don’t overpay from day one. Start small, then upgrade as sales grow.

  2. 2. Secure Your Domain Name

    Your domain is your brand’s online address. Pick something short, memorable, and relevant to your niche.

    Check availability on Shopify or third-party providers like Namecheap.

    Always choose a .com or .us for U.S. businesses.

    Avoid numbers or complicated spellings.

  3. 3. Set Up Your Store’s Structure

    Think of your store like a real shop. Shoppers should find products easily.

    Create main categories (e.g., Men’s Clothing, Accessories).

    Add subcategories if you have large inventories.

    Keep menus simple — 3 clicks max to reach a product.

  4. 4. Design a Store That Converts

    Your design directly impacts sales. Use Shopify’s free themes if you’re on a budget or invest in a custom design for a unique look.

    Keep the homepage clean with a clear hero banner and CTA.

    Use high-quality product photos and lifestyle images.

    Ensure mobile optimization — more than 60% of traffic comes from phones.

  5. 5. Add Your Products the Right Way

    Don’t just upload images and prices. Take time to make each product page persuasive.

    Use clear product titles.

    Write detailed descriptions highlighting benefits, not just features.

    Upload multiple product images with zoom-in options.

    Set accurate inventory levels.

  6. 6. Set Up Payment Gateways

    U.S. customers expect multiple payment options.

    Enable Shopify Payments for credit cards.

    Add PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

    Offer “Buy Now, Pay Later” options like Shop Pay Installments.

  7. 7. Configure Shipping Settings

    Unexpected shipping costs kill conversions.

    Offer free shipping for orders over a set amount.

    Set clear delivery times.

    Use calculated rates if you ship nationwide.

  8. 8. Install Essential Shopify Apps

    Apps can automate tasks and boost sales.

    Email Marketing: Klaviyo or Omnisend.

    Reviews: Judge.me for social proof.

    Upselling: Frequently Bought Together.

    Analytics: Google Analytics & Shopify Reports.

  9. 9. Test Your Store Before Launch

    Pretend you’re a customer and buy from your store.

    Test payment processing.

    Check shipping calculations.

    Review mobile display.

  10. 10. Launch and Promote

    Once everything works, start driving traffic.

    Use social media ads (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok).

    Collaborate with influencers.

    Run an email launch campaign to your subscriber list.

How That Nerd Studio Helps U.S. Businesses Set Up Shopify Stores

At That Nerd Studio (TNS), we don’t just set up a Shopify store — we build a selling machine. Our team:

  1. 1. Designs conversion-focused stores tailored to your brand.
  2. 2. Handles technical setup so you can focus on running your business.
  3. 3. Optimizes product pages for SEO and conversions.
  4. 4. Integrates essential apps to boost sales from day one.

Whether you need a clean, modern store or a completely custom design, we deliver it ready to launch — no guesswork, no headaches. Ready to launch your Shopify store with zero stress? Contact That Nerd Studio today and let’s get your U.S. business selling online in weeks, not months.

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