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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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. Designs conversion-focused stores tailored to your brand.
- 2. Handles technical setup so you can focus on running your business.
- 3. Optimizes product pages for SEO and conversions.
- 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.