If you are thinking about launching your online store with Shopify in 2025, you are probably wondering how much it costs to sell online with Shopify. There are several costs involved, from the monthly subscription to shipping and marketing expenses. In this article, we will break down all the costs and benefits associated with selling on this platform, so you can make informed decisions and optimize your investment.
Key Takeaways
- Initial costs include domain, setup, and design.
- Shopify offers several subscription plans that cater to different needs.
- Transaction fees vary depending on the payment method used.
- Monthly operating expenses are an important factor to consider.
- Leveraging Shopify's tools can improve your store's profitability.
Initial Costs for Selling Online with Shopify
Starting to sell online with Shopify in 2025 involves a series of initial costs that you need to consider. These costs can vary depending on your needs and the type of business you want to build. At Imagine Business, we understand that every entrepreneur is different, which is why we offer personalized solutions to optimize your initial investment and maximize your profits. It is essential to plan these expenses to avoid surprises and ensure a successful launch of your online store.
Investment in Custom Domain
Having a custom domain is crucial for building a strong brand and generating trust with your customers. A custom domain gives you credibility and makes it easier for customers to find you online. At Imagine Business, we help you choose the perfect domain for your business and offer competitive registration options. A .com domain can cost between $10 and $20 per year, but there are other extensions and providers with different prices. Consider that a good domain name is a long-term investment in your brand. Additionally, a custom domain improves your SEO positioning .
Initial Setup Expenses
The initial setup of your Shopify store can involve some expenses, especially if you need professional help. While Shopify is an intuitive platform, some entrepreneurs prefer to hire an expert to set up the store, customize the design, and optimize the user experience. At Imagine Business, we offer initial setup services for Shopify, tailored to your needs and budget. These services can include theme installation, payment and shipping method setup, and app integration. Setup costs can range from $100 to $500, depending on the complexity of the project.
Design and Template Costs
The design of your online store is fundamental to attracting and retaining customers. Shopify offers a wide variety of free and paid themes, but if you want a unique and customized design, you may need to hire a designer. At Imagine Business, we have a team of designers experienced in Shopify who can create an attractive and functional online store that reflects your brand's identity. Design costs can vary significantly, from a few dollars for a premium theme to several thousand dollars for a completely custom design. Choosing an appropriate template is key to a good user experience .
Investing in good design and proper initial setup can make the difference between a successful online store and one that fails to take off. Don't skimp on these aspects, as they are the foundation of your online business.
Shopify Subscription Plans
Choosing the right subscription plan on Shopify is crucial for the success of your online store. As we at Imagine Business are dedicated to selling already operational online businesses and Shopify themes, we understand that this decision directly impacts your costs and functionalities. Selecting the right plan will allow you to access the necessary tools to manage your business efficiently and profitably.
Overview of Plans
Shopify offers a variety of plans designed to fit different stages and needs of your business. From the Starter plan, ideal for those starting to sell on social media, to Shopify Plus, a complete enterprise solution, there is an option for every type of seller. The main plans are: Starter, Basic, Shopify, Advanced, and Plus. Each offers different features and prices, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. It is important to carefully evaluate the features of each plan to make an informed decision.
Price Comparison
The prices of Shopify plans vary according to the features and functionalities they offer. Here is a comparative table to give you a clear idea:
| Plan | Monthly Price (approx.) | Transaction Fees (if not using Shopify Payments) |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | 5€ | Varies by payment provider |
| BASIC | 36€ | 2% |
| Shopify | 105€ | 1% |
| Advanced | 384€ | 0.5% |
| Shopify Plus | Custom | Negotiable |
It is important to note that these prices are approximate and may vary depending on your location and current promotions. Additionally, if you choose to pay annually, you can receive significant discounts. Consider the Shopify Retail plan if you have a physical store.
Benefits of Each Plan
Each Shopify plan offers specific benefits designed to meet the needs of different types of businesses:
- Starter: Ideal for testing ideas and selling directly through social media and messages.
- Basic: Perfect for small businesses starting to sell online. Offers essential tools to create and manage an online store.
- Shopify: Ideal for growing businesses that need more functionalities, such as advanced reporting and marketing automation.
- Advanced: Designed for medium and large companies that require advanced functionalities, such as third-party calculated shipping rates and greater control over logistics.
- Shopify Plus: A complete enterprise solution for large companies with high sales volumes and customized needs. Allows management of multiple stores from a single panel.
Choosing the right plan depends on your specific needs. Consider the size of your business, the expected sales volume, and the functionalities you need to manage your store efficiently. Don't hesitate to start with a more basic plan and upgrade as your business grows. Remember that at Imagine Business we can advise you to make the best decision.
Transaction and Processing Costs
Understanding transaction and processing costs is vital for calculating the profitability of your online store at Imagine Business. These costs can vary depending on the payment gateways you use and the payment methods you offer your customers. It is important to note that these costs can significantly affect your profit margins, so let's take a closer look at them.
Payment Gateway Fees
Payment gateways are intermediaries that facilitate transactions between your store and banks or financial entities. Each gateway has its own fees, which can be a percentage of the transaction value, a fixed fee per transaction, or a combination of both. When choosing a payment gateway, consider not only the fees but also the security, reputation, and ease of integration with your Shopify store. For example, if you sell Shopify themes , make sure the gateway is compatible with the platform.
Transaction Fees
Shopify charges transaction fees if you do not use Shopify Payments. These fees vary depending on the plan you have contracted. For example, in the Basic plan, the fee is higher than in the Advanced plan. If you use Shopify Payments, you save these fees , but you must consider the fees associated with Shopify Payments, which also vary by plan. It is crucial to evaluate your business's sales volume to determine whether it is more beneficial to use Shopify Payments or an external gateway.
Additional Costs by Payment Methods
Offering a variety of payment methods can increase your sales, but it can also generate additional costs. Some payment methods, such as credit cards, tend to have higher fees than others, such as bank transfers. Additionally, some payment methods may involve costs for chargebacks or disputes. It is important to analyze which payment methods your customers prefer and negotiate fees with providers to optimize costs .
It is essential to closely monitor transaction and processing costs to maintain your business's profitability. Regularly review payment gateway fees and payment methods, and adjust your strategy as necessary. Consider offering discounts for cash payments or bank transfers to encourage the use of more economical payment methods.
Here is a comparative table of transaction fees according to the Shopify plan (if you do not use Shopify Payments):
| Plan | Transaction Fee |
|---|---|
| BASIC | 2.0% |
| Shopify | 1.0% |
| Advanced | 0.5% |
Remember that these costs are just part of the equation. You should also consider marketing costs, shipping costs, and other operating expenses to have a complete view of the profitability of your online business .
Monthly Operating Expenses
Once your Imagine Business store is up and running, you need to consider monthly operating expenses. These costs are crucial for keeping your business running smoothly and for continuing to grow. Here are the main ones:
Additional Application Costs
Shopify has a large number of applications that can enhance your store, from email marketing tools to inventory management apps. Many of these applications have a monthly cost. It is important to evaluate which ones are truly necessary for your business and which are not. For example, if you sell Shopify themes , you may need an app to show live demos or to manage licenses.
- Analyze which applications you use and whether they are providing a good return on investment.
- Look for more economical or free alternatives that offer similar functionalities.
- Consider whether you can perform some tasks manually instead of relying on an app.
Marketing and Advertising Expenses
Marketing is essential for attracting customers to your store. This includes advertising on social media, email campaigns, SEO, and other strategies. These expenses can vary greatly depending on your niche and the intensity of your campaigns. At Imagine Business, we know that advertising targeted at entrepreneurs looking to buy online businesses is different from advertising for designers looking for templates.
- Defines a monthly budget for marketing and advertising.
- Experiment with different channels and strategies to see which works best.
- Use analytics tools to measure the performance of your campaigns and adjust them as necessary.
Store Maintenance Costs
Maintaining your store includes things like software updates, backups, and troubleshooting technical issues. If you do not have technical experience, you may need to hire a developer or an agency to help you with these tasks. At Imagine Business, we offer maintenance services for Shopify stores, as well as established online businesses , so you don't have to worry about these details.
It is essential to keep in mind that operating costs can vary significantly from month to month. It is important to keep a detailed record of all your expenses and analyze them regularly to identify areas where you can save money.
- Regularly back up your store to avoid data loss.
- Keep your software updated to protect against security vulnerabilities.
- Consider hiring a technical support service to quickly resolve issues.
Shopify Starter: An Affordable Option
The Shopify Starter plan presents itself as an economical alternative for those who want to venture into e-commerce without the need for a complete online store. It is an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to validate their products or for those focusing on sales through social media and other direct channels. At Imagine Business, we understand the importance of starting with an accessible solution, and Shopify Starter can be that first step.
Features of the Starter Plan
The Shopify Starter plan offers a series of features designed to facilitate online sales simply and economically:
- Unlimited product pages: Allows you to create as many product pages as you need, each with detailed descriptions and attractive photos.
- Shareable links: Generates direct links to your products for easy sharing on social media, messages, or emails.
- Simplified order management: Manage your orders and track sales from a centralized panel.
- Integration with Linkpop: Facilitates the creation of a link in your social media bio that directs customers to your products.
- Secure payment processing: Provides your customers with a safe and reliable payment experience.
Ideal for Social Sellers
This plan is especially suitable for sellers who already have an established presence on social media or who prefer to interact directly with their customers. It allows you to convert followers into buyers without the complexity of managing a traditional online store. It is perfect for:
- Influencers who want to sell their own merchandise.
- Content creators looking to monetize their audience.
- Small businesses starting in e-commerce.
Limitations of the Plan
While the Starter plan is an excellent option to get started, it is important to consider its limitations:
- Lacks a complete online store: Does not include the ability to create an online store with a custom domain.
- Transaction fees: Applies a 5% transaction fee on Shopify Payments.
- Limited functionality: Does not offer all the advanced features of higher plans.
The Shopify Starter plan is an excellent option for those looking for a simple and economical way to start selling online. However, it is important to consider its limitations and evaluate whether it fits your long-term needs. If your business grows and you require more functionalities, you can always upgrade to a higher plan.
At Imagine Business, we offer a variety of Shopify themes designed to help you create an attractive and functional online store, even if you decide to start with the Starter plan and then upgrade to a higher plan. We can also help you find the online business that best suits your needs.
Basic Plan: Ideal for New Merchants
The Basic Shopify Plan is an excellent option for those taking their first steps in the world of e-commerce. At Imagine Business, we see this plan as a smart investment for entrepreneurs looking for a complete and easy-to-use solution to sell online .
Key Features of the Basic Plan
The Basic Plan offers the essential tools to create and manage an attractive and functional online store. Some of its most notable features are:
- Customized online store: Allows you to create a store with a professional design using pre-designed and customizable templates. At Imagine Business, we offer a wide variety of Shopify themes that cater to different market niches.
- Product management: Facilitates the uploading and organization of products, including descriptions, images, and prices.
- Payment processing: Integrates secure payment gateways to accept credit cards and other popular payment methods.
- Basic reports: Provides information on sales, traffic, and customer behavior.
- 24/7 technical support.
Monthly and Annual Costs
The Basic Plan has an affordable monthly cost, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs with limited budgets. Although the exact price may vary, it generally falls within an affordable range. Opting for an annual plan can lead to significant savings in the long run.
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| BASIC | $29 USD | $348 USD |
Advantages for Small Businesses
The Basic Plan offers numerous advantages for small businesses looking to establish their online presence:
- Ease of use: The platform is intuitive and easy to use, even for those without e-commerce experience.
- Scalability: As the business grows, the plan can be upgraded to more advanced options.
- Technical support: Technical support is available to resolve any questions or issues that may arise.
- Integration with applications: Allows integration of third-party applications to enhance store functionality.
The Basic Plan is an excellent option for those looking for a complete and affordable solution to start selling online. It offers the necessary tools to create an attractive store, manage products, and process payments securely.
Shopify Plan: For Growing Businesses
The Shopify Plan is an excellent option for businesses that already have some traction and are looking to expand. This plan offers a balance between features and costs, allowing merchants to access more advanced tools without incurring the high costs of the Advanced or Shopify Plus plans. At Imagine Business, we see this plan as a key point for those looking to take their online stores to the next level.
Advanced Features of the Shopify Plan
This plan includes features that are not available in the Basic plan, such as professional reports that give you deeper insights into your store's performance. It also offers lower transaction fees, which is crucial as your sales volume increases. Additionally, you can create up to five staff accounts, making it easier to delegate tasks and manage the business.
- Detailed professional reports.
- Reduced transaction fees.
- Up to five staff accounts.
Comparative Costs
The Shopify Plan has a monthly cost that sits between the Basic and Advanced plans. It is important to evaluate whether the additional features justify the extra investment. Often, businesses that experience steady growth find that this plan offers a better return on investment in the long run. Keep in mind that the price may vary slightly depending on whether you choose monthly or annual payment.
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| BASIC | $29 | $348 |
| Shopify | $79 | $948 |
| Advanced | $299 | $3588 |
Benefits for Established Sellers
For sellers who already have a customer base and a steady income flow, the Shopify Plan offers a series of significant benefits. The ability to generate professional reports allows for more informed decisions about marketing and sales strategies. Additionally, the lower transaction fees can result in considerable savings as sales volume increases. This plan also facilitates team management by allowing the creation of multiple staff accounts, improving operational efficiency.
The Shopify Plan is ideal for businesses looking to scale their operations and optimize their sales strategies. It offers a robust set of tools that allows established sellers to maintain their growth and improve their profitability. At Imagine Business, we recommend this plan to those seeking a balance between cost and functionality to boost their Shopify template and theme sales business.
Advanced Plan: For Experienced Merchants
This plan is designed for businesses that already have a considerable sales volume and need more robust tools to manage their online store. If you are already selling Shopify themes or helping others create their online businesses, this plan could be the next logical step.
Features of the Advanced Plan
The Advanced Shopify Plan offers additional features compared to the Basic and Shopify plans. It is designed for merchants who need detailed reports and more powerful automation tools.
- Custom reports: Get detailed insights into your store's performance.
- Third-party shipping rate calculation: Offers your customers accurate shipping rates.
- Advanced automation: Simplifies repetitive tasks and optimizes your processes.
Monthly Costs and Benefits
The monthly cost of the Advanced Plan is $399 (USD), although it may vary depending on your location. If you opt for annual payment, the cost reduces to $299 per month. Transaction fees through external payment gateways are reduced to 0.5%, which can mean significant savings if you handle a high sales volume. This plan includes up to 15 staff accounts, making it easier to manage larger teams.
| Feature | Advanced Plan |
|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | $399 |
| Transaction Fee | 0.5% |
| Staff Accounts | 15 |
Ideal for High Sales Volumes
The Advanced Plan is ideal for businesses with high sales volumes and looking to expand into new markets. If your store generates more than $5,000 in monthly revenue, consider this plan to take advantage of its advanced features. Additionally, if you are actively working with different national markets, this plan allows you to customize international pricing and offer accurate shipping rates to your customers. This plan also includes customer segmentation tools to improve your marketing campaigns.
Shopify Plus: Enterprise Solution
Shopify Plus is the platform designed for large businesses looking for a tailored solution. It is an ideal option if your company needs a robust and scalable infrastructure to manage a high volume of sales and complex operations. At Imagine Business, we understand that choosing the right platform is crucial for success, and Shopify Plus offers the tools and flexibility needed to take your business to the next level.
Custom Costs of Shopify Plus
The price of Shopify Plus is not fixed but adapts to the specific needs of each company. Generally, it is based on a percentage of monthly sales, with a guaranteed minimum. This model allows the platform to grow with you, adjusting costs as your business volume increases. It is important to contact Shopify directly for a personalized quote and to understand all the costs involved. Consider that this investment can be very profitable if you plan to launch a dropshipping store with a high sales volume.
Exclusive Features
Shopify Plus offers a series of features that are not available in standard plans, including:
- Advanced checkout customization: Allows you to tailor the payment process to your brand's specific needs, improving customer experience and increasing conversion rates.
- Process automation: With Shopify Flow, you can automate repetitive tasks and optimize workflows, freeing up time for your team to focus on strategic activities.
- Priority support: Access to a specialized technical support team available 24/7.
- Greater flexibility in store management: Allows you to create multiple stores for different markets or brands, all from a single platform.
Shopify Plus is not just a platform, but a strategic partner that helps you grow and scale your business. It offers the tools and support necessary to overcome the challenges of large-scale e-commerce.
Benefits for Large Companies
The benefits of Shopify Plus for large companies are numerous:
- Scalability: The platform is designed to handle large volumes of traffic and sales without compromising performance.
- Flexibility: Allows you to adapt the platform to your business's specific needs, integrating with other tools and systems.
- Efficiency: Automates processes and optimizes workflows, reducing costs and improving productivity.
- Support: Access to a team of experts who will help you get the most out of the platform. If you are looking for Shopify themes and templates for your store, at Imagine Business we can help you.
Shipping and Logistics Costs
Shipping and logistics costs are a fundamental aspect to consider when selling online, especially if you are selling templates or themes from Shopify through Imagine Business. Efficient management can make the difference between a profitable business and one that struggles to survive. It is crucial to understand how to optimize these costs to maximize your profits.
Integrated Shipping Options
Shopify offers various integrated shipping options that can simplify logistics management. These options allow you to calculate real-time shipping rates, print shipping labels, and track orders. For Imagine Business, this means you can offer your customers different shipping alternatives, from the most economical to the fastest, adapting to their needs and budgets. Additionally, integration with services like Shopify Shipping facilitates shipping management directly from the Shopify control panel.
International Shipping Costs
If you plan to sell your Shopify themes and templates to international customers, it is vital to understand the costs associated with international shipping. These costs can vary significantly depending on the destination, weight, and dimensions of the package, as well as applicable tariffs and taxes. It is advisable to research the customs regulations of each country and offer shipping options that include prepayment of tariffs to avoid unpleasant surprises for your customers. Consider using international shipping cost calculation tools to obtain an accurate estimate and offer competitive prices. For Imagine Business, this means thoroughly researching international shipping rates and providing transparent options to customers.
Discounts and Special Rates
Negotiating discounts and special rates with shipping companies can be an excellent way to reduce shipping costs. If your sales volume is considerable, you can contact companies like DHL, FedEx, or UPS directly to request preferential rates. Another option is to use shipping services that offer volume discounts or memberships. Additionally, consider offering free shipping on orders over a certain amount to encourage customers to spend more. For Imagine Business, this means actively exploring volume discounts and special rates with different shipping providers to optimize costs and offer better prices to customers.
An effective strategy for reducing shipping costs is to optimize the packaging of your products. Use appropriately sized boxes and envelopes to avoid excess space and weight, which can significantly increase shipping costs. Additionally, consider using lightweight yet durable packaging materials to protect your products during transport.
Strategies to Optimize Costs
Price Adjustment and Margins
At Imagine Business, we understand that price optimization is vital for maximizing the profitability of your online store. It is not just about lowering prices, but finding the perfect balance between being competitive and maintaining healthy margins. An effective strategy is to analyze competitors' prices, but without falling into a price war that harms everyone. Consider the added value you offer, such as the quality of your Shopify templates or the specialized technical support we provide at Imagine Business.
- Competitor analysis: Monitor the prices of similar products in other stores.
- Cost calculation: Ensure you know all your costs, including transaction and shipping costs.
- Dynamic pricing strategies: Adjust prices based on demand and season.
A good practice is to regularly review your profit margins and adjust them as necessary. Don't be afraid to experiment with different pricing strategies to see what works best for your business.
Efficient Use of Applications
The Shopify app ecosystem is vast, but not all apps are necessary for your business. Often, entrepreneurs subscribe to multiple applications that end up duplicating functions or that they simply do not use. It is essential to conduct an audit of the applications you have installed and remove those that are not generating a clear return on investment. At Imagine Business, we recommend focusing on applications that truly drive your sales or improve the efficiency of your operation. For example, a good email marketing app may be more valuable than three social media apps that you are not actively using.
Maximizing Resources
Maximizing available resources is key to reducing costs. This involves everything from optimizing your time to making the most of the tools you already have at your disposal. At Imagine Business, we encourage you to explore all the functionalities offered by the Shopify themes we sell before looking for external solutions. Often, the answer to your needs is already integrated into the platform. Additionally, consider automating repetitive tasks to free up time that you can dedicate to more strategic activities, such as content creation or customer service.
- Task automation: Use tools to automate email marketing, inventory management, and other repetitive tasks.
- Staff training: Invest in training your team so they can use the tools efficiently.
- Process review: Analyze your internal processes to identify areas where costs can be reduced or efficiency improved.
Benefits of Selling Online with Shopify
Shopify has become an essential platform for those looking to sell online businesses , and Shopify themes. But what real benefits does it offer to entrepreneurs like you? Let's break it down.
Access to Marketing Tools
Shopify gives you access to a ton of integrated marketing tools. You don't need to be a digital marketing expert to start seeing results. You can create email marketing campaigns, manage your social media, and optimize your store for SEO, all from one place. This greatly simplifies the process and allows you to focus on what really matters: growing your business.
- Customer segmentation for more effective campaigns.
- Integration with social media to promote your products.
- SEO tools to improve your visibility in search engines.
Technical Support and Advice
One of the great advantages of Shopify is its technical support. If you have any problems or questions, you can contact them 24/7. Additionally, they have a vast knowledge base and forums where you can find answers to your questions. This is especially useful if you are new to the world of e-commerce.
Having good technical support is essential, especially when you are starting. Knowing that you can count on help at any time gives you a lot of peace of mind and allows you to resolve issues quickly.
Ease of Use and Scalability
Shopify is known for being easy to use. You don't need to be a programmer to create and manage your online store. The interface is intuitive and guides you step by step. Additionally, it is a very scalable platform. You can start with a basic plan and, as your business grows, you can switch to a more advanced plan with more functionalities.
- Intuitive and easy-to-use interface.
- Scalable plans to adapt to your growth.
- Wide variety of customizable themes and templates.
Final Thoughts on the Costs of Selling on Shopify
At the end of the day, selling online with Shopify in 2025 can be a great option for many entrepreneurs. Costs vary depending on the plan you choose, from more affordable options like the Starter plan to more comprehensive solutions like Shopify Plus. It is important to evaluate your needs and the size of your business to select the plan that best suits you. Additionally, do not forget to consider the additional expenses that may arise, such as the custom domain and applications. With good planning and a clear strategy, Shopify can be a powerful tool to grow your online store and achieve your business goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the initial costs to start selling on Shopify?
Initial costs include purchasing a custom domain, setup expenses, and possible design and template costs.
What subscription plans does Shopify offer?
Shopify offers several plans, including Starter, Basic, Shopify, Advanced, and Shopify Plus, each with different features and prices.
What are the transaction fees on Shopify?
Transaction fees vary depending on the plan and the payment method used. If you use Shopify Payments, the fees are lower.
What monthly operating expenses should I consider?
Operating expenses may include additional applications, marketing and advertising, and store maintenance costs.
What does the Shopify Starter plan include?
The Starter plan is ideal for those selling through social media and does not require creating a complete online store.
What are the advantages of the Basic plan?
The Basic plan is perfect for new merchants, as it includes all the essential functions for an online store at an affordable cost.
What benefits does the Shopify plan offer for growing businesses?
The Shopify plan includes advanced analysis tools and lower transaction fees, ideal for businesses that are expanding.
What exclusive features does Shopify Plus have?
Shopify Plus customized offers solutions for large companies, including management tools and specialized support.