Table of Contents
- Why Shopify is the Best Choice for Australian Ecommerce
- Benefits of Starting a Shopify Store in Australia
- Costs of Creating a Shopify Store
- Shopify Development Cost Breakdown
- Money-Saving Tips for Shopify Development
- Frequently Asked Questions about Shopify Development Costs
- Conclusion: How Much Does it Cost to Develop a Shopify Store?
- How WPPRO Assists with Shopify Development
If you’re considering setting up a Shopify store in Australia, understanding the Shopify development cost is essential. This guide will cover everything you need to know about the costs involved in developing, managing, and running a Shopify store.
At WPPRO, we have extensive experience in creating Shopify stores for Australian clients, and we’re here to provide you with a detailed cost breakdown.
Why Shopify is the Best Choice for Australian Ecommerce
Shopify is an excellent platform for starting an online business in Australia due to its user-friendly features and integrated tools. Here are some reasons why:
1. User-Friendly and SEO Optimised
Shopify is designed to be intuitive, requiring no coding knowledge. Additionally, its SEO-friendly structure helps improve your store’s visibility on search engines.
2. Easy Store Management
Managing your Shopify store is straightforward, akin to using a spreadsheet. You can easily update products and track sales without technical expertise.
3. Great User Experience
Shopify provides an intuitive interface, making it easy for beginners to navigate and manage their stores effectively.
4. Integrated Tools
Shopify offers built-in tools for payments, blogging, and e-commerce functionality, reducing the need for additional plugins.
5. Responsive Design
Shopify themes are responsive, ensuring your store looks great on all devices without extra development.
6. Extensive Apps and Integrations
With a wide range of apps available, you can enhance your store’s functionality easily.
7. Scalable Growth
Shopify allows you to scale your business effortlessly, upgrading your plan as your needs grow.
Benefits of Starting a Shopify Store in Australia
Launching a Shopify store in Australia comes with several advantages:
1. Localised Payment Options
Shopify supports popular Australian payment gateways like Afterpay and ZipPay, enhancing the checkout experience.
2. Automatic GST Calculation
Shopify automatically calculates GST, ensuring compliance with Australian tax laws.
3. Seamless Shipping Integration
Integration with local carriers like Australia Post simplifies shipping management for your store.
4. Local Customer Support
Shopify offers 24/7 support, including teams based in Australia, providing timely assistance.
5. Optimised for the Australian Market
Shopify’s platform is tailored for Australian users, supporting AUD and local SEO features.
6. Access to Local Apps
The Shopify App Store features apps designed specifically for Australian businesses, enhancing your operations.
7. Strong Community Support
Shopify has an active community in Australia, providing networking opportunities and valuable insights.
Costs of Creating a Shopify Store
When creating a Shopify store, consider the following costs:
1. Monthly Subscription Fee
The basic Shopify plan starts at approximately $30/month or $300/year, an essential ongoing expense.
2. Third-Party Apps
Budget around $200 annually for essential apps that enhance store functionality.
3. Custom Development and Design
Invest in design to stand out. Template costs range from $300 to $1,000, while custom development can range from $10,000 to $50,000 based on complexity.
4. Miscellaneous Charges
- Transaction Fees: Shopify charges a fee (typically 2.9% + 30¢) per transaction.
- Payment Gateway Fees: Payment processors like Stripe also charge fees, affecting your overall costs.
- Credit Card Processing Fees: Typically around 2% to 3% per transaction.
5. Email Marketing Server
Costs for email marketing platforms range from $20 to $50/month or approximately $300/year.
6. Maintenance Fees
Regular maintenance and support can cost around $1,000/month or $12,000/year.
Shopify Development Cost Breakdown
Here’s a summary of the costs involved:
Initial Setup Costs (One-Time):
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Template Cost | $300 – $1,000 |
| Custom Development | $10,000 |
| Email Marketing Server Setup | $300 |
| Total Initial Setup Cost | $15,000 (average) |
Ongoing Annual Costs:
| Cost Category | Amount (Annually) |
|---|---|
| Monthly Subscription Fee | $300 |
| Third-Party Apps | $200 |
| Email Marketing Server | $450 |
| Maintenance & Retainer Fees | $12,000+ |
| Total Annual Ongoing Costs | $20,000/year |
Money-Saving Tips for Shopify Development
Here are some practical tips to help you save on Shopify development:
1. Use Free Themes Cautiously
Free themes can save money, but may limit your store’s SEO potential.
2. Limit Customisations
Prioritise essential customisations to manage costs effectively.
3. Leverage Shopify’s Built-in Features
Utilise built-in tools to avoid unnecessary custom development.
4. Do It Yourself
Handle routine tasks such as content updates to save costs.
5. Avoid Monthly Retainers
If feasible, skip retainers and hire developers only when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shopify Development Costs
1. What is the cost to set up a Shopify store in Australia?
Setting up a basic Shopify store typically starts at $29/month, plus additional costs for themes and apps, leading to an estimated first-year cost of $500 to $1,000.
2. Is Shopify a good choice for online businesses in Australia?
Yes, Shopify is ideal for Australian businesses due to its user-friendly features and local support.
3. What is the minimum budget for a Shopify store?
The minimal budget starts at $29/month, covering only essential features.
4. Can you use Shopify without a website in Australia?
Yes, but it’s not recommended as it limits your store’s marketing and credibility.
Conclusion: How Much Does it Cost to Develop a Shopify Store?
Understanding the costs associated with developing a Shopify store is crucial for effective budgeting. With proper planning, Shopify can be a cost-effective solution for your online business.
How WPPRO Assists with Shopify Development
WPPRO offers comprehensive support for your Shopify development needs, ensuring a smooth process from start to finish.
We provide expert guidance and services, including SEO optimisation and technical support, allowing you to focus on running your business.
