Ultimate Shopify Guide Australia: Pricing, Setup, Features, FAQs

The Ultimate Shopify Guide Australia: Pricing, Setup, Features & FAQs

What You’ll Learn in This Guide

Section 1 :

Introduction

Section 2 :

What is Shopify, and How Does it Work?

Section 3 :

Shopify Pricing & Plans in Australia

Section 4 :

Getting Started: Setting Up a Shopify Store in Australia

Section 5 :

ABN: Do You Need One for Shopify Australia?

Section 6 :

Managing Your Shopify Store: Key Features

Section 7 :

Shopify Domains and Store Settings

Section 8 :

Managing Your Shopify Subscription and Store

Section 9 : 

Closing or Deleting Your Shopify Store

Section 10 :

Shopify Payments and Fees in Australia

Section 11 :

Dropshipping on Shopify: How can you make an income out of it?

Section 12 :

How to Ask for Help and Manage Your Shopify Account

Section 13 :

Conclusion

#Section 1 

Introduction 

Think today’s the day to start selling your brand online? Well,  you shouldn’t stress too much about specifics when you’ve got platforms like Shopify to make your life easy and profitable at the same time. 

Shopify is every business owner’s dream virtual store space. It provides you with all the tools and resources to set up your brand online and start selling in minutes. It has been a leading platform for big brands like Gymshark and Kylie Cosmetics, as well as solo entrepreneurs and small businesses.

This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about Shopify as an Australian business owner, from setting up your store to learning its key features, FAQs, and more.

#Section 2

What is Shopify, and How Does it Work?

What is Shopify? 

Shopify is an all-in-one e-commerce platform that allows you to buy and manage an online store easily. From products, services to digital goods, whichever business opportunity you go for, Shopify has all the resources you need to set up a sleek online store with minimal technical knowledge.

What Does Shopify Do?

With Shopify, you can sell your products and services online on a user-friendly platform that facilitates product management, quick payment processing, order tracking, and shipping. It also integrates social media and marketplaces such as Amazon, eBay, and other physical sales through Shopify’s POS.

How Shopify Works

Shopify functions under a subscription-based system, where businesses pay a monthly fee to use its e-commerce tools. Once a user chooses a Shopify theme, they can add products, set up available payment options (including Afterpay, ZipPay, and Shopify payments), and set up their store. For better functionality, the platform also offers apps and customisation options.

Is Shopify Legit?

Yes! Shopify ranks as a leading credible and trusted platform used by over 1.75 million businesses worldwide, including an impressive number of Australian retailers. It’s safe, reliable, and offers many local payment options, making it a great choice for all business types that are interested in selling online in Australia.

Who Owns Shopify?

Shopify was brought to life in 2006 by Tobias Lutke, Daniel Weinand, and Scott Lake in Canada. Being the world’s second-largest publicly traded company, Shopify is also listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX). Even though Shopify is a global company, it supports Australian businesses with local payment options, tax settings, and integrations.

#Section 3

Shopify Pricing & Plans in Australia

If you’re an Australian business hoping to establish your store on Shopify, you need to know everything about Shopify’s pricing structure. The table below will show a quick breakdown of Shopify’s plans, related costs, and transaction fees for the Australian Market :

Shopify Pricing Plans in Australia

Plan

Monthly Cost (AUD)                         

Online Credit Card Rate                       

In-Person Credit Card Rate                      

Third-Party Payment Fee                                      

   Key Features

Starter

$7

N/A

N/A

N/A

Sell products through social media, email, SMS, and WhatsApp; includes a ‘Buy Now’ button for existing sites

Basic

$42

1.75% + 30¢

1.95%

2%

Online store with website and blog, unlimited products, 24/7 support, up to 44.2% shipping discount

Shopify

$114

1.6% + 30¢

1.85%

1%

All Basic features plus professional reports, up to 44.2% shipping discount and insurance, 5 staff accounts

Advanced

$431

1.4% + 30¢

1.75%

0.6%

All Shopify features plus advanced report builder, third-party calculated shipping rates, 15 staff accounts

Shopify Plus

Starting at USD 2,300

Varies

Varies

Varies

Enterprise solutions with advanced customisation and support

shopify.com

Note: The prices above are based on an annual subscription. Monthly fees will vary

How Much Does Shopify Cost Per Month?

Below is a breakdown of Shopify’s monthly cost plans in Australia : 

The above prices are based on annual subscriptions, which offer savings over monthly charges. 

How Much Does Shopify Take Per Sale?

Shopify transaction fees depend on the plan you’ve selected and the relevant payment method :

  • Using Shopify Payments:
    • Basic Plan: 1.75% + 30¢ per online transaction
      shopify.com
    • Shopify Plan: 1.6% + 30¢ per online transaction
      shopify.com
    • Advanced Plan: 1.4% + 30¢ per online transaction
      shopify.com

Remember, when you choose Shopify Payments, you can notably reduce your transaction fees. 

Is Shopify Free?

Though it’s not free, Shopify does offer a free trial period of 3 days for users to get to know the platform. Once the free trial period is over, users can select any plan mentioned above, starting with AUD 7 monthly for the Starter plan. You must understand Shopify pricing structures and fees to help your Australian business select the most appropriate Shopify plan that aligns well with operational needs and financial considerations. 

#Section 4

Getting Started: Setting Up a Shopify Store in Australia

Setting Up a Shopify Store in Australia

Setting up a Shopify store in Australia is a clear-cut process, from starting a new business to introducing an existing one to e-commerce. Our step-by-step guide will help you launch your online store stress-free. 

Step 1: Sign Up for Shopify

  1. Visit Shopify Australia and click on “Start Free Trial”.
  2. Type in your email address and click on “Start Free Trial.”
  3. Shopify will then ask you a few questions about your business. Answer them, but feel free to skip if they do not apply to your business.
  4. Give your store a name (this will be a part of your Shopify URL, e.g., yourstorename.myshopify.com). 
  5. Click on “Next” and type in your business information (country, region, currency). 
  6. Click on “Enter My Store” to access your Shopify dashboard. 

Step 2: Choose a Shopify Plan

  • Shopify begins with a 3-day free trial period; after the trial, you must select a long-term plan. 
  • Shopify plans start from AUD 7 per month (Starter Plan) up to AUD 431 per month (Advanced plan).
  • The best plan is the one that suits your business requirements. 

Step 3: Customise Your Shopify Store

1. Choose a Theme

  • Visit “Online Store” and then “Themes” on the Shopify dashboard. 
  • Click on “Visit Theme Store” to check out free and premium themes. 
  • Click on “Add” to install a theme, then click on “Customise” to edit the design.

2. Add Branding & Customisation

  • Go to “Settings” then “Brand” and upload your logo. 
  • Under “Theme  Customisation,” select your preferred brand colors and fonts. 
  • Then, set up a homepage banner, collections, and product highlights. 

Step 4: Add Products to Your Store

  1. Go to “Products”, then “Add Product”. 
  2. Type in your product name, description, and pricing. 
  3. Upload high-quality images. 
  4. If applicable, set relevant inventory levels and SKUs. 
  5. Choose your shipping options and variants (e.g., sizes, colours) 
  6. Click on “Save” to publish your product.

Step 5: Set Up Payments & Taxes

1. Choose Payment Options

  • Some of the payment options Shopify supports are Shopify Payments, PayPal, Afterpay, and other payment gateways. 
  • Click on “Settings,” then “Payments,” and activate a payment method.
  • If you’re opting for Shopify Payments, type in your bank details to receive payments.

2. Set Up Taxes (Australia GST)

  • Say goodbye to taxation hassles because Shopify automatically calculates GST (10%) for all Australian stores.
  • Click on “Settings” then “Taxes” to enable GST.

Step 6: Connect a Domain Name

  1. You can buy a domain via Shopify or simply connect an existing domain.
  2. Click on “Settings” > then go to “Domains”.
  3. Select “Buy new domain” or “Connect existing domain”.
  4. Follow the prompts to verify and link your domain.

Common Issue :

One of the common issues our users face is the Cloudflare proxy. If you receive the message “Your domain has a Cloudflare proxy, which is not supported by Shopify,” go to your DNS settings and disable the Cloudflare proxy.

Step 7: Launch Your Store

  • Click on “Settings,” then go to “Preferences” and enable “Password Protection” off.
  • To avoid misinformation, double-check your store, product pages, and payment settings.
  • Now, you just click on “Launch Store,” and your Shopify website is live!

#Section 5

ABN: Do You Need One for Shopify Australia?

If you’re running a business, you need one.

  • When you’re selling products in Australia, it’s a requirement to register for an Australian Business Number (ABN) for tax purposes.
  • If your income is over AUD 75,000 per year, you must register for GST.

How to Add an ABN to Shopify

  1.     Go to “Settings” then “Taxes”.
  2.     Under Tax Registration, click on the country “Australia.”
  3.     Type in your ABN.
  4.     Next, enable GST collection if necessary.
  5.     Finally, click on “Save”.

Final Thoughts

Though these steps seem lengthy a read, if you follow the right setup, you’ll have your fully equipped Shopify store ready to go in no time.

#Section 6

Managing Your Shopify Store: Key Features

Your journey on Shopify begins after you set up your Shopify store and take measures to manage a successful online business. We’ll take you through a detailed guide on the must-know Shopify features that will support Australian business owners to optimise their business activities.

Managing Your Shopify Store- Key Features
  1. Adding Products to Shopify 

Your online store wouldn’t be one without having one of the basic components in it, and that’s your products. Here’s how you add products to your Shopify store : 

  • Log into Shopify > Products > Add Product.
  • Type in your product details. 
  1. Product Title
  2. Product Description
  3. Price (set in AUD, with GST if applicable).
  4. Inventory details (SKU and barcode if applicable).
  • Insert high-quality images.
  • Assign clear product categories and tags.
  • Choose shipping settings.
  • Click “Save”.

Tip: To add many products at once or to import via CSV files for large-scale inventories, use Shopify’s bulk editor feature. 

2. How to Add Reviews to Shopify

Customer reviews are the gateway to a strong and reliable brand. Here’s how you can add reviews to Shopify : 

  1. Go to the Shopify App Store and look for Product Reviews. 
  2.  Click on “Add app” and then install it.
  3. After the app has been installed, go to Apps and then Product Reviews.
  4. Customise your review settings (e.g., set to automatic or manual approval)
  5. Next, you can add a review section to your product pages through “Online Store” and then “Themes” and customise.
  6. Click Save and Publish. 

Tip: Discounts and loyalty points are strategic means to encourage customers to leave reviews. 

3. How to Add Afterpay to Shopify 

Afterpay lets customers pay after purchase through four interest-free installments. Buy now, pay later apps like Afterpay help and motivate customers to make payments with ease, which in turn boosts your conversions.

  1. To enable Afterpay in your Shopify store, follow this guide:
  2. The first thing is to check the availability of Afterpay in your region (Australia is supported by default)
  3. Go to “Settings” then “Payments” in Shopify.
  4. Select “Choose Payment Provider” and search for Afterpay. 
  5. Click Activate and type in your Afterpay Merchant ID & Secret Key. 

Ti: Adding the Afterpay logo to your product pages will let customers know about flexible payment options. 

4. How to Add Apple Pay to Shopify

Apple Pay is another flexible payment option that will quicken up your customers’ payment process. Apple Pay is eligible for all Apple device users. 

Steps to enable Apple Pay for your store: 

  1. Go to Settings > Payments > Shopify Payments. 
  2. Click on “Manage” under Shopify Payments.
  3. Scroll down to “Wallets” and enable “Apple Pay”.
  4. Click on “Save”.

Tip: Apple Pay only functions on Apple devices that use Safari; therefore, encourage and educate your customers to use it for a seamless checkout experience.

5. Exploring Shopify Themes

Shopify store themes come in a range of choices. So, while you’re surfing through Shopify and come across a store with an eye-catching design, these are the steps you need to follow to know more about that theme :

Method 1: Shopify’s Page Source Code

  1. Go to the Shopify Store in Google Chrome. 
  2. Right-click on the page and select “View Page Source”. 
  3. Press CTRL + F (Windows) or CMD + F (Mac) and type “Shopify.theme”.
  4. The theme name will be shown in a line of code. 

Method 2: Shopify Theme Detector 

Using Shopify Theme Detector, you can identify the theme a store is currently using. 

Tip: Stores with heavily customised themes can be harder to identify. 

Final Thoughts 

By sprucing up your store with these features, you can create a memorable and seamless user experience for your customers. From adding products, reviews to providing flexible payment options like Afterpay and Applepay- all these tweaks will bring you more conversions and help your Shopify store stand out. 

#Section 7

Shopify Domains and Store Settings 

The domain name you pick for your store also determines a part of your store’s branding and SEO efforts. From creating a new domain to changing your existing one to troubleshooting domain-related issues, this guide is the one for you. 

  1. Connecting a GoDaddy Domain to Shopify 

If you’ve already got a domain from GoDaddy, linking it to your Shopify is easy. Follow this step-by-step guide to connect a GoDaddy Domain : 

  1. Log in to Shopify > Settings > Domains. 
  2. Click on “Connect existing domain” and type in your GoDaddy domain name (e.g., www.yourstore.com
  3. Click “Next” > “Connect automatically” (if available). 
  4. Log in to your GoDaddy account and confirm the connection. 
  5. Shopify will then automatically update your DNS settings. 
  6. Click on “Verify Connection”, and within the next 48 hours, your domain will direct you to Shopify.

Tip: By any chance, if the automatic connection fails, you can always manually update your GoDaddy DNS settings :

  • Set the A record to Shopify’s IP address: 23.227.38.65
  • Set the CNAME (www) to shops.myshopify.com

2.  Changing the Domain Name on Shopify

Yes, it is possible to change your Shopify domain name. But before you make your changes, keep these in mind:

  • If you’re using a custom domain, you can connect to a new domain at any time.
  • If you’re using Shopify’s default domain, you can’t change your domain, but you can buy and use a custom one.

Steps to change your Shopify domain:

  1. Purchase a new domain from Shopify, GoDaddy, or Namecheap (third-party providers).
  2. Connect to the new domain (Go ot Settings > Domains > Connect existing domain).
  3. Now that it’s connected, set the new domain as the primary and delete the old one.

 

Tip : When changing your domains, don’t forget to set up 301 redirects to keep your SEO rankings safe. 

3. Changing Your Shopify Store Name

Thinking of rebranding and want to start with changing your store name? Shopify’s got you.

Follow these steps to change your store name :

  1. Go to Settings > General in your Shopify admin.
  2. Find the Store Name field and enter the new name of your store.
  3. Click Save.

Note: This change does not make any changes to your domain name, only to your internal store name. If you wish to change the domain, follow the instructions from the previous section.

How to Fix the Cloudflare Proxy Error Message

If a message saying “Your domain has a Cloudflare proxy, which is not supported by Shopify” pops up, it’s because your store domain is using a Cloudflare proxy that is interfering with Shopify’s hosting.

To fix the Cloudflare proxy issue :

  1. Log in to Cloudflare > DNS Settings.
  2. Search for the A record and CNAME record directing to Shopify.
  3. Click the orange cloud icon next to these records to switch off the proxy (it will turn grey after you switch it off).
  4. Save the changes, and Shopify will verify your domain in 24-48 hours.

Tip: If the site is still not working, empty your Cloudflare cache and redo the verification process in Shopify.

Final Thoughts

Your Shopify store’s domain is an integral part of your store as a whole. A good domain will ensure your store is stable, accessible, secure, and SEO friendly. To aid all your domain and store settings, from connecting a GoDaddy domain, changing your store name to troubleshooting Cloudflare issues, these steps will help you maintain a smooth-functioning Shopify store.

#Section 8

Managing Your Shopify Subscription and Store

Managing Your Shopify Subscription and Store

Decided to take a break or maybe thinking of closing your store? Whatever decision you make, it’s important to do so while managing your store effectively. Shopify will support you here with a range of options, from pausing your store, canceling your subscription or completely deleting your account. This guide will take you through a detailed step-by-step process :

  1. Pausing a Shopify Store 

Breaks are much needed, no matter what business you’re running. So, if you’re looking to take a break from your Shopify business but plan to return later, Shopify has an option to “pause” your store. This action will store your data for lower costs.

Here are the steps to “Pause” your Shopify store :

  • Log in to Shopify Admin.
  • Go to “Settings” > “Plan”
  • Click on “Pause or deactivate store”.
  •  Choose “Pause and build” (for a decreased fee of USD 9/month)
  • Click on “Switch to Pause and Build” and confirm.

Important Notes :

  • If your store is on pause, customers can only view your store, but they cannot make any purchases.
  • You can return to a full plan at any time by reactivating your subscription.
  • If you’re planning to remain inactive for a while, we advise you to fully deactivate your store.

    2.   Temporarily Halting a Shopify Subscription (Without Closing Your Store)

You can leave Shopify and still save your data by pausing your Shopify subscription without opting to delete the store.

Here are the steps to temporarily halt your Shopify subscription: 

  • Head over to “Settings” then “Plan” in your   Shopify Admin.
  • Select “Pause and Build” to leave your store open but discontinue customer transactions.
  • Confirm the change to your plan.

Tip: This option is best if you’re planning to return to Shopify without losing your store setup and content.

   3.   Canceling a Shopify Subscription & Closing Your Store

If you choose to leave Shopify, you can do this by canceling your Shopify subscription and shutting down your store.

Here’s how you cancel a Shopify subscription and close your store: 

  1. Log in to Shopify Admin.
  2. Go to “Settings” then “Plan”.
  3. Go down and click on “Pause or deactivate store.”
  4. Choose “Deactivate store” and follow the on-screen instructions.
  5. You will then need to select a reason for leaving Shopify (this helps Shopify improve services for its customers)
  6. Click on “Deactivate now” and confirm.

What you need to know before cancelling : 

  • Shopify will not provide any refunds for unused Shopify subscriptions.
  • Shift any active custom domains before closing the store. 
  • All store data will be deleted after some time. 

   4.   Unsubscribing from Shopify (Without Losing Your Store Data)

To discontinue payments but maintain access to your store, you can unsubscribe without permanently deleting your data. 

Here’s how to unsubscribe from Shopify : 

  1. Pause your store by following the instructions from section 1. 
  2. Take down paid apps and subscriptions to avoid extra charges. 
  3. Download store data if you have plans to return later. 

Tip: Shopify policy keeps your store data for two years after cancellation, so within that period, you are free to reactivate your store by logging back and selecting a new plan.

   5.   Retaining Customers Who May Consider Leaving Shopify

If you’re a Shopify store owner planning to retain customers, we suggest you try these tips before canceling your store:

  • Optimise costs – instead of canceling, consider switching to a plan with a lower price.
  • Boost store productivity – change store themes, add more apps, and tweak your marketing efforts.
  • Ask for help Shopify offers active support through live chat, email, and phone support.

Final Thoughts

Looking to take a break, downgrade, or fully shut down your store? Shopify’s got you, providing you access to a range of flexible options that will help you make the right choices for your business.

#Section 9

Closing or Deleting Your Shopify Store

Closing or Deleting Your Shopify Store

Before choosing to shut down your Shopify store, you need to know the different options available to you. The three options are that you can either pause the store, close it permanently, or completely delete your Shopify account altogether. The outline below will ease your stress and take you through a seamless process to provide other alternatives to help you make the best decision for you and your business.

1. Deleting a Shopify Store

To delete your Shopify store permanently, you only need to follow these steps :

  1.     Access your Shopify Admin.
  2.     Browse to “Settings” then “Plan”.
  3.     Click on “Pause or deactivate store.”
  4.     Next, Shopify will ask you to confirm your choice and enter your password.
  5.     Click on “Deactivate now” to finalise.

What you need to remember before deleting:

  • Once you delete your store, you will not be able to recover your store data.
  • Shopify is not obligated to offer refunds on subscriptions.
  •  If you own a custom domain, transfer it to a custom domain before deleting your store.
  •  Shopify keeps inactive accounts for two years before permanently deleting them. You can always return and reactivate your account within that period if you wish.

Alternative option: If you’re not sure about deleting your store, you can always pause its activities instead and return later.

2. Closing a Shopify Store (Without Deleting Your Account)  

You can choose to stop selling on Shopify but still retain your store data. This is an alternative to closing the store without deleting your full account/store.

Here’s how you do it :

  1.     Head over to “Settings” then “Plan” in your Shopify Admin.
  2.     Choose “Pause and Build” to keep your store inactive for a small fee of USD 9/month.
  3.     Confirm your plan.

Why should you choose this option?

  • Your store will remain as it is, and if you want, you can reactivate it later.
  • You will not lose your customer data, order history, or settings.
  • This is a cost-effective way to retain your store without running it.

3. Deleting a Shopify Account 

To delete your full Shopify account and not just the store, follow these steps : 

  1. Close your store with the steps above. 
  2. Call Shopify Support and request a full account deletion. 
  3. For this, Shopify will ask for an identity verification before permanently removing your account details.

Warning (!) :

  • Deleting your account will permanently wipe away all your customers and store data.
  • You will have to use a separate email to create a new Shopify account later.

Tip: As deleting takes away all your past data, consider pausing your Shopify Store or temporarily transferring it to another owner.

4. How to Remove “Powered by Shopify” from Your Store

For a more customised brand experience, you can remove the “Powered by Shopify” text from your website’s footer. Follow the below steps to remove “Powered by Shopify” : 

  1. Visit Online Store and then Themes in Shopify Admin.
  2. Select “Actions,” then select “Edit Code”.
  3. Under Sections, look for “footer.liquid”.
  4. Use Ctrl + F (Cmd + F for Mac) to find “Powered by Shopify.” 
  5. Delete the coded text.  
  6. Click Save and refresh the site. 

Alternate route: If you’re using a free Shopify theme, you can remove it through these steps – Online Store > Themes > Edit Languages > General > Powered by Shopify (delete text). 

Final Thoughts 

Deciding to close or delete your Shopify store is a big deal, so if you’re not sure about your decision, try pausing it instead. This option is stress-free, as it allows you to come back to your store without compromising your data. However, if you have made up your mind about leaving Shopify, remember to shift any domains, download all valuable data, and cancel subscriptions before going ahead. 

#Section 10

Shopify Payments and Fees in Australia

If you’re an Australian business owner looking to sell on Shopify, you need to be clued in on Shopify’s payment system and transaction fees. For your ease, we’ve broken them down, including the costs of using third-party gateways.

Shopify Payments and Fees in Australia

1.      What are Shopify Payments?

It’s a built-in payment processor for Shopify, which allows merchants to receive and accept payments without the help of a third-party gateway such as PayPal or Stripe. Shopify Payments accepts credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Afterpay for all eligible businesses in Australia.

Benefits of Shopify Payments in Australia:

  • There will be no third-party transaction fees (only Shopify’s standard card rates).
  • Quick payouts (usually 2 business days in Australia).
  • Easy checkout process, with very few redirects, supporting your conversion rates.
  • Aids multi-currency payments, which are perfect for international sales.
  • Integrated security details, such as fraud detection tools.

Why should you use Shopify Payments in Australia?

Shopify Payments eliminates the additional transaction fees charged when using external payment gateways.

2.      Does Shopify Take a Cut from Your Sales? 

Yes, based on your plan and choice of payment, Shopify charges a percentage per sale. 

Below are the Shopify Transaction Fees you need to know when using Shopify Payments in Australia:

Shopify Plan

Online Card Rate

In-Person Card Rate (Shopify POS)

Basic

1.75% + 30¢ per transaction

1.4% + 0¢ per transaction

Shopify

1.6% + 30¢ per transaction

1.4% + 0¢ per transaction

Advanced

1.4% + 30¢ per transaction

1.4% + 0¢ per transaction

Note: These rates are applicable only for Shopify Payments.

Third-party payment gateways (such as PayPal, Stripe, or Afterpay) come with an extra transaction fee added by Shopify, apart from the usual provider’s rates:

Shopify Plans                       Extra Fee for Using External Payment Gateways

Basic                                                      2.0% per transaction

Shopify                                                   1.0% per transaction

Advanced                                             0.5% per transaction

Example Scenario:

If you’re using the Basic Shopify plan and use PayPal (which charges ~2.6% per sale), Shopify will add an extra 2% fee, making your final truncation fee 4.6% + 30 cents per sale.

3. Other Payment Gateways to Use in Australia 

If you’re opting out of Shopify payments, you can choose from several payment providers in Australia, such as : 

  • PayPal (2.6% + 30 cents per sale) 
  • Stripe (1.75% + 30 cents per sale) 
  • Afterpay (6% + 30 cents per sale) 
  • Square (1.9% per sale) 

What should you go for? 

  • With Shopify Payments, you can avoid extra fees. 
  • If you’re looking for Buy Now, Pay Later, Afterpay is the most sought-after in Australia.
  • If you have an existing customer base for PayPal, keep it as it is.

4. When Do You Get Paid on Shopify?

Here’s how it works: when a customer places an order, their payments funnel through Shopify Payments and are sent to the Australian bank account linked to Shopify: 

Below is the Payout Schedule for Australian business owners : 

  • The standard payout time is 2 days post-sale. 
  • Sales made on weekends are processed on Mondays. 
  • On public holidays, payouts take an extra day. 

Tip: You can easily check your payout status by going to Shopify Admin > Settings > Payments > View Payouts. 

Final Thoughts: How to Minimise Your Shopify Fees 

To reduce transaction fees : 

  • Use Shopify Payments over third-party payment gateways (to avoid extra fees). 
  • Select the right Shopify plan for your business- High plans have lower transaction fees.
  • Provide in-person sales if applicable – Shopify POS comes with low transaction fees.
  • Transfer costs to customers – Some stores include a small surcharge fee for credit card payments.

By following the above methods, you can build a rewarding store that maximises profits under a lower fee structure on Shopify, Australia.

#Section 11

Dropshipping on Shopify: How can you make an income out of it?

Dropshipping has taken the entrepreneurial world by storm, now becoming a leading business model for entrepreneurs to sell products without hoarding inventory. Now, with the aid of Shopify, the  Dropshipping business has never been simpler. In this section, we’ll introduce you to the arm of Dropshipping on Shopify, covering areas such as how to dropship on Shopify, how to make money on Shopify, and the right tools that will make your Dropshipping venture a success.

Dropshipping on Shopify

With the right guidance, Dropshipping on Shopify is a cakewalk. It only takes a few correct steps to build a successful online business without the burden of inventory management, and here’s how you do it with Dropshipping on Shopify:

Step 1: Creating Your Shopify Store

  • First, sign up for a Shopify account, and choose the best plan for your business.
  • Pick a domain name that suits your brand or business.
  • Select a Shopify store theme that projects your store’s niche and is easy to navigate.

Step 2: Select Your Niche 

In dropshipping, a profitable niche goes a long way. To find one, look for these factors in your niche : 

  • Market demand
  • Profit margin
  • Competition 
  • Your interests and experience 

To help you get started, our popular dropshipping niches are gadgets, beauty products, fashion, health and wellness, and home decor.

Step 3: Finding Reliable Suppliers

Shopify incorporates several Dropshipping apps to help you network and connect with suppliers. A few to name:

  • Oberlo (sources products from AliExpress)
  • Spocket (Ships faster from US and EU suppliers)
  • Modalyst (a tailored selection of high-quality suppliers)

Through these, you can surf, pick, and add products to your store with ease. Do remember to ensure that your selected supplier offers quality customer service and fast shipping options. 

Step 4: Set Up Your Products

  • Make sure your product descriptions are engaging and SEO-friendly.
  • Go for reasonable pricing based on your costs, shipping fees, and desired profit margins. 
  • Showcase your products with HD images. 

Step 5: Time to Market Your Store! 

Now that your store is live, it’s time to draw in customers. Here are some strategies to follow: 

  • Social media marketing (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok
  • Google Ads and Facebook Ads
  • Influencer marketing
  • SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) for organic results

Step 6: Automate Order Fulfillment 

When your customers place an order, Shopify automatically directs it to your supplier, and they ship it straight to your customer’s doorstep. 

Tip: Apps like Oberlo or DSers can aid with a smooth automated order fulfillment process as well as order management. 

How to Make Money on Shopify Through Dropshipping 

Shopify is a money-making hub if you know exactly what to do. To effectively make a moment on Shopify through dropshipping, you need the perfect hook, line, and sinker through the correct products, targeting, and marketing.

Here’s how you make money dropshipping with Shopify:

1. Set Competitive Pricing

  • Mark up your products for a profitable margin (a normal markup is 2x to 3x the cost price).
  • Before you price your products, consider your shipping fees, payment processing fees, and other hidden costs.

2. Optimise Your Store for Conversions

  • Add clear calls to action on your product pages like “Buy Now” or “Shop Now”.
  • Optimise checkout processes to help customers complete their orders easily.
  • Customer reviews, easy return policies, and secure payment options go a long way in building customer relationships. 

3. Use Upselling and Crosselling

  • Add similar or pairing product recommendations near checkout or on product pages to increase average order value.
  • Apps like Bold Upsell and Frequently Bought Together can motivate customers to purchase more.

4.Keep Your Eyes on Customer Retention

  • Give your customers a reason to come back by offering discounts for future purchases and start to build an email marketing list.
  • Use loyalty programs to build a community for your brand.

5. Boost Your Marketing Strategies

  • Retargeting ads, email campaigns, and social media ads can be used to expand your reach.
  • Make use of best-selling products or genius marketing campaigns and raise stakes with a bigger ad spend or expanding to newer markets.

Shopify Dropshipping Apps You Need to Know

One of the easiest ways to make the most of Dropshipping on Shopify is to use apps that automate and streamline your store:

  • Oberlo: supports importing and selling products from suppliers, tracking orders, and automating order fulfillment.
  • Spocket: to connect with high-quality suppliers in the US and EU, reducing shipping times for Australian customers. 
  • DSers: to connect you to suppliers on AliExpress, supports bulk order processing, and automates your order fulfillment process. 
  • Printful: Printful helps you kickstart your print-on-demand store with custom apparel and other products. 

Bonus Tip: The Shopify free trial is your ideal opportunity to test the platform and its apps before committing to a long-term paid plan.

Final Thoughts

If you’re an Australian entrepreneur looking to start a business with minimal upfront investment, dropshipping on Shopify is perfect. Follow the steps above, use the right apps and marketing strategies, and you can transform your Shopify store into a cash cow in no time.

What’s more interesting is how Dropshipping allows you to work from anywhere, grow your business, and explore various products and niches.

Think dropshipping might be your thing? Sign up for Shopify now and dive into our world of online selling!

#Section 12

How to Ask for Help and Manage Your Shopify Account

Whether you’re an expert on Shopify or just getting into it, help is still needed. Lucky for you, Shopify offers a range of support options to help troubleshooting issues, answer questions, and manage your account efficiently.

This section will tell you how to reach out to Shopify support, send a collaborator request on Shopify, and includes all support links and detailed instructions for you to follow.

How to Ask for Help and Manage Your Shopify Account

How to Contact Shopify Support

If you face any issues with your Shopify store, simply reach out through any of these channels:

1.      Live Chats

The fastest way to get help on Spotify is through our live chat support feature. Follow these steps to use it:

  • Log in to your Shopify account.
  • Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the ‘Help Center’ link.
  • Select ‘Chat with Us’ to start a live conversation with one of our support agents.
  • Then, select the issue you need support for.

Live chats are available 24/7, so you can reach out and receive help any time.

2.      Support Phone

To talk to someone directly, you can simply make a call to Shopify’s support team through these steps:

  • Head over to the Shopify Help Center and click on ‘Contact Support. ’
  • Choose your country, and you will be given a local Shopify phone number for that country.

Shopify’s phone support is available 24/7 for all emergency issues or more tailored assistance.

3.     Email Support

For low-priority requests, you can reach out to Shopify support via email. To connect via email centre, once you’re at the Help Center, select your issue or question, and Shopify will guide you to their email support options. This is more suitable for general inquiries, non-urgent queries, or if you want a record of the conversation.

4.      Shopify Community Forum

Sometimes, the best help comes from your community. The Shopify Community Forum allows you to exchange your experiences on Shopify and find solutions from other Shopify users. You can also browse for topics and create new posts stating your issues, troubleshooting tips, and store optimisation.

5.      Social Media Support

Our social media accounts are always active, so feel free to reach out to Shopify’s official social media accounts:

  • Twitter: @ShopifySupport
  • Facebook: Shopify’s official page  

Social media support is not as detailed as the other methods we’ve mentioned above; however, if you’re looking for a quick response or a general inquiry, then Shopify socials are your go-to. 

How to Send a Collaborator Request on Shopify

To tweak your store management, you need the right help. So, whether it be a web developer, designer, or marketing expert, you can send a collaborator request and offer them access to your store without giving full admin rights. This is a hassle-free way to stay in control of your store and work alongside experts.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on sending a collaborator request:

  1.     Log into your Shopify Account.
    • Type in your credentials and access your Shopify admin panel.
  1.     Navigate to ‘Settings’
    • Select the ‘Settings’ icon at the bottom left of your Shopify dashboard.
  1.     Click on ‘Users and Permissions’
    • Go to the ‘Account’ section, select ‘Users and Permissions.’
  1.     Send a Collaborator Request
    • On the Users and Permissions page, select ‘Add Collaborator. ’
    • Next, you’ll be required to enter the email of the collaborator and state which areas of the store they can access (e.g., products, orders, reports.  
  1.     Confirm and Send Request
    • Evaluate the permissions and click ‘Send Invitation. ’
    • Your collaborator will receive this invitation via an email and a link to accept it and access the store.

Note: When working with Collaborators, you can put your fears of privacy to rest as the collaborators are only allowed to access areas of the store you’ve allowed them to. This way, you can work securely with other parties on the Shopify store while safeguarding your data.

Official Shopify Support Links

These Shopify support links will quickly guide you to all the information you need:

  • Shopify Help Center: help.shopify.com
    • Gives your answers to common queries, guides, and tutorials.
  • Shopify Support Contact Page: shopify.com/contact
    • Gives you access to live chats, email support, and phone support.
  • Shopify Community Forum: community.shopify.com
    • This is a space for Shopify merchants to ask questions, get answers, and network with other users.
  • Shopify Status Page: shopifystatus.com
    • Helps you check for service interruptions and/or Shopify’s system updates. 

#Section 13

Conclusion

Shopify’s support channels are always there to give your store assistance to run it smoothly. From immediate support via live chats, request for collaborator requests, or need to browse troubleshooting issues, Shopify’s arsenal of support tools are accessible and efficient. If you’re a Shopify store owner, make the best of these tools to optimise your store for smoother operations.

If you’ve got issues and questions, all the answers you need are with Shopify’s support team. Reach out to them through their available contact methods, and they’ll take you through all the steps that will help spring your store back to business. 

 Pro Tip: For quick access, bookmark the Shopify Help Center and Support Contact Page.

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