Are you really ready for a webstore? When building an online store there are a lot of factors to consider. Even when you create an Etsy or Shopify store, there is planning involved. When you work with an agency, you do not have to do the planning alone. A web design agency is going to have the consultative time configured in their pricing estimate. However, depending on the client, the time needed may vary by client.

If you want to lower your consulting time with a design agency, have a clear understanding of some of the basics of opening an online webstore.

Inventory List

While you do not need to have all your inventory in place to open the store, especially if you offer made-to-order items, it is important to have an inventory list for whoever is designing your website. Whether you design your website or someone else does, you will need this information handy.

Have the following information ready:

Product Name
Product Description
Product Weight
Product Dimensions
Product Options (color, size, etc)
Turn-Around Time
Current Inventory (where applicable)

• Product Name
• Product Description
• Product Weight
• Product Dimensions
• Product Options (color, size, etc)
• Turn-Around Time
• Current Inventory (where applicable)

How Will You Ship the Order?

How will you ship your products? Will you use UPS, USPS, FedEx, or some other shipping company? Shipping impacts the digital configurations for your product.

Some people opt to charge flat rates for shipping and then ship wherever they can at the time. Other people opt to work with on shipping company and configure their store to match their pricing.

No matter which shipping solution you choose, it is important to research pricing options so you can communicate those goals with your web developer or configure them yourself.

What Is The Turnaround Time?

When someone places an order, how soon will they get it? It is important to have clear policies that customers understand when they order. Not everyone expects Amazon speed, but they do expect transparency.

Location and Address Information

When it comes to having an online store if you do not want to publish your home address, purchase a post office box to have mail returns sent to. This lets customers know the region you are located in and provides a place should something need to be returned.

Marketing Budget

Listen carefully, you need a marketing budget if you are going to be successful selling products online. If you do not have an initial marketing budget, consider an Etsy or Shopify option where there is a less overhead investment. If you develop with an agency your initial investment will be thousands. You will want a return on that investment and that is where a digital marketer can aid in your decision.

Digital marketing for an online store makes measuring return on investment (ROI) easier. You can track which campaigns refers business and how much they spend on their transaction. For more information about digital marketing, click here.

More Webstore Considerations

While many online concepts have overlapping themes, each business is unique. If you’re ready to get moving with your online business, let’s talk about your business goals. Lean on our expertise to develop an e-commerce webstore solution that meets your needs and grows alongside your business.