How to open an online store
Your online store step by step
Opening an online store takes seven steps: from the idea, through formalities and choosing the software, to the first order. We describe them one by one and show where we can help.
In plain words: a store like a shop on the street
An online store is made of the same parts as a brick and mortar shop. You need premises, an address, equipment and goods on the shelves.
The server where the store runs around the clock.
The name customers type into the browser, for example yourstore.com.
Cart, checkout, payments and a management panel.
Photos, descriptions, prices and stock levels.
Seven steps to the first order
Idea and customer
Think about what you want to sell and to whom. Check how competitors sell and find what will make your store stand out: a wider choice, better service or more convenient delivery.
Formalities
Register your business and check the local rules for online sales in your country. Every store also needs terms of service and a privacy policy in line with GDPR, and it is worth having a lawyer review them.
Store software
Choose Store Builder if you sell on your own, or Multi-Vendor if you want to build a marketplace with many vendors. Before buying, try the panel and storefront in the demo versions.
Domain and hosting
The domain should be short, easy to remember and related to what you sell. Hosting must meet the CS-Cart system requirements. We recommend three proven hosting options and will help you register the domain.
Products
Add products by hand or import them from a CSV file or from your old store. Descriptions, photos, variations and features help both customers and search engines.
Payments and shipping
Connect payment gateways and carriers. Polish integrations are listed below, and the full list is in the SoftSolid add-ons catalog.
Launch and promotion
Place a test order, turn on analytics and submit the store to search engines. Friendly URLs, a sitemap and structured data help customers find your products.
Polish integrations to start with
Ready-made SoftSolid add-ons for the couriers, payments and invoicing services most often chosen in Poland.
What we can do for you
Let us start with a talk
Tell us what you want to sell. We will recommend the software edition and hosting, and then launch the store together with you.