Want to start an online store but worried about the cost? Good news! Shopify has an amazing deal right now that lets you try their platform for just $1.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Shopify’s free trial and how to make the most of it.
What’s the Current Shopify Deal?
Let’s break down Shopify’s latest offer in simple terms:
- First 3 days: Completely free
- Next 3 months: Just $1 per month
- No credit card needed for the first 3 days
- Deal ends February 28, 2025
This means you can test out Shopify’s tools and features with almost no risk. It’s perfect if you’re just starting your online business journey.
Why Should You Try Shopify?
Shopify is like having a complete toolkit for running an online store. Here’s what makes it special:
Easy to Use
- No tech skills needed
- Simple drag-and-drop store builder
- Ready-made store designs to choose from
All-in-One Solution
- Build your store
- Accept payments
- Track inventory
- Ship products
- Handle customer service
Helpful Features
- AI writing helper for product descriptions
- Built-in marketing tools
- Sales tracking
- Mobile app to manage your store
How to Start Your Free Trial
Getting started with Shopify is super easy. Here’s what to do:
1. Visit Shopify’s Website
- Use an official link
- Click “Start Free Trial”
2. Set Up Your Account
- Answer basic questions about your business
- Pick your country
- Sign up with email or Google
- No credit card needed for the first 3 days
3. Choose Your Plan
- Look at different options
- Pick what works for your budget
- Remember: all plans are $1/month for the first 3 months
What to Do in Your First 3 Days
The first 3 days are completely free. Here’s how to make the most of them:
| Day | Main Task | Specific Actions | Tips & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1: Setup | Pick Store Design | • Browse theme store • Choose a mobile-friendly theme • Customize colors • Adjust fonts • Set up homepage layout | • Start with a free theme • Pick something simple and clean • Focus on mobile experience |
| Store Basics | • Add store name • Upload logo • Set store timezone • Choose currency • Add store description | • Keep your store name simple • Make sure logo is high quality • Double-check timezone settings | |
| Basic Pages | • Create About Us page • Add Contact page • Set up FAQ section • Add privacy policy • Write shipping policy | • Tell your brand story • Include contact methods • Use clear, simple language | |
| Initial Products | • List 3-5 products • Create product categories • Set up inventory tracking • Add basic pricing • Create collection page | • Start with your best products • Organize items logically • Use clear category names | |
| Day 2: Content | Product Descriptions | • Write clear titles • Add detailed descriptions • Include product features • Set up variants (sizes, colors) • Add product tags | • Focus on benefits • Use bullet points • Include all important details |
| Product Photos | • Upload quality images • Add multiple angles • Include size reference photos • Optimize image sizes • Add alt text for SEO | • Use good lighting • Show product in use • Keep image style consistent | |
| Payment Setup | • Choose payment gateway • Set up Shopify Payments • Add PayPal (if needed) • Set tax rates • Configure checkout settings | • Start with standard options • Check transaction fees • Enable auto tax calculation | |
| Shipping Options | • Set shipping zones • Add shipping rates • Configure free shipping rules • Set up local pickup • Add shipping policies | • Start with simple rates • Consider free shipping threshold • Be clear about delivery times | |
| Day 3: Testing | Store Testing | • Check all links work • Test checkout process • Verify payment methods • Test contact forms • Check mobile display | • Test on different devices • Try all payment methods • Check email notifications |
| Final Checks | • Review all product info • Check spelling/grammar • Test site speed • Verify contact info • Check all policies | • Use spell check • Ask friend to review • Test as a customer would | |
| Launch Decision | • Review store analytics • Check setup completion • Calculate costs • Plan marketing strategy • Decide on $1/month plan | • Consider your readiness • Check budget • Plan next steps |
Important Reminders:
- Back up your work regularly
- Keep track of your login details
- Save all important documents
- Take screenshots of your setup
- Document any issues you encounter
Before Moving to $1/Month Plan:
- Make sure all essential pages are complete
- Test checkout process thoroughly
- Have at least 5-10 products ready
- Ensure all policies are in place
- Have a basic marketing plan ready
Don’t Forget:
- You can’t process real orders during first 3 days
- Save your work frequently
- Take notes on what needs improvement
- Keep track of questions for Shopify support
- Plan your next steps if continuing
The Next 3 Months: Making the Most of Your $1 Trial
Once you decide to continue, you’ll pay just $1 per month for 3 months. Here’s what to focus on:
| Time Period | Action Area | Specific Tasks | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Month 1 | Store Design | • Choose brand colors • Optimize product photos • Create clear navigation • Add About page • Test mobile responsiveness | Make your store easy to navigate on all devices |
| Product Setup | • Write clear descriptions • Add multiple product photos • Set accurate prices • Create product collections • Add search tags | Use high-quality images and detailed descriptions | |
| Domain Setup | • Purchase domain name • Connect to Shopify store • Set up business email • Test all links • Activate SSL security | Choose a memorable, professional domain name | |
| Initial Marketing | • Create marketing plan • Install Google Analytics • Start store blog • Create email signup form • Plan first promotion | Focus on building your brand presence | |
| Month 2 | Social Media | • Select key platforms • Create business accounts • Post product photos • Share behind-the-scenes • Engage with customers | Choose platforms where your target customers spend time |
| Email Marketing | • Build email list • Create welcome emails • Plan newsletters • Design email templates • Test subject lines | Focus on growing your subscriber list | |
| Sales Tracking | • Monitor analytics • Track bestsellers • Analyze traffic sources • Check cart abandonment • Review pricing | Use data to make informed decisions | |
| Customer Feedback | • Request reviews • Monitor comments • List improvements • Address issues • Thank customers | Respond promptly to all feedback | |
| Month 3 | Product Growth | • Add requested items • Remove poor sellers • Update descriptions • Add seasonal items • Plan inventory | Let customer demand guide your inventory |
| Store Improvements | • Optimize checkout • Update shipping • Enhance photos • Add new features • Fix technical issues | Focus on removing friction points | |
| Financial Planning | • Review costs/margins • Check competitor prices • Calculate Shopify fees • Plan processing fees • Create business budget | Ensure your pricing structure is profitable | |
| Future Strategy | • Select Shopify plan • Set growth goals • Plan marketing budget • Consider hiring help • Create 6-month plan | Think long-term about your business growth |
Key Success Metrics to Track Monthly:
- Number of visitors
- Conversion rate
- Average order value
- Cart abandonment rate
- Email list growth
- Social media engagement
- Customer feedback score
- Revenue growth
Additional Notes:
- Adjust timeline based on your progress
- Focus on quality over speed
- Document what works and what doesn’t
- Keep customer experience as top priority
- Stay flexible and adapt your plan as needed
Regular Shopify Plans After the Trial
Shopify is a comprehensive platform that helps businesses grow. Understanding its pricing and affordability is important for potential users. Let’s break down the details of its pricing plans, value for money, and any hidden costs or additional fees. For Regular Shopify Plans After the Trial.
Pricing Plans Overview
Shopify offers different pricing plans to cater to various business needs. Here’s a quick look at the options:
| Plan | Basic ($19/month) | Shopify ($49/month) | Advanced ($299/month) | Plus (Starting at $2,300/month) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Solo entrepreneurs | Small teams | Scaling businesses | Complex businesses |
| Billing | Billed yearly | Billed yearly | Billed yearly | 1- or 3-year term |
| Card rates | 2% 3rd-party payment providers | 1% 3rd-party payment providers | 0.6% 3rd-party payment providers | Competitive rates for high-volume merchants |
| Inventory locations | 10 | 10 | 10 | 200 |
| Support | 24/7 chat support | 24/7 chat support | Enhanced 24/7 chat support | Priority 24/7 phone support |
| Global selling | 3 markets | 3 markets | 3 markets + add more for $59 USD/month each | 50 markets |
| Staff accounts | – | 5 additional | 15 additional | Unlimited |
| Checkout capacity | – | – | 10X | 40X |
| POS | POS Lite | POS Lite | POS Lite | 200 POS Pro locations with Shopify Payments |
| B2B Selling | – | – | – | Sell wholesale/B2B |
| CTA | Try for free | Try for free | Try for free | Get in touch / Learn more |
Value for Money
Although Shopify’s pricing may seem high, it offers great value for money. Each plan includes:
- Website Creation: Customizable themes and online store editor.
- Sales Channels: Sell online, in person, and on social media.
- Checkout System: Customizable checkout process.
- Marketing Tools: Social media integrations and Shopify Email.
- Inventory Management: Track sales, orders, and manage inventory.
- Financial Management: Access to Shopify Finance.
- Analytics: Comprehensive reporting tools.
These features help businesses scale effectively, making Shopify a valuable solution for growth.
Hidden Costs and Additional Fees
While Shopify includes many features, there are some hidden costs and fees to consider:
- Transaction Fees: Shopify charges transaction fees if you don’t use Shopify Payments.
- App Costs: Some apps in the Shopify App Store may have additional charges.
- Theme Costs: Premium themes may add to your overall cost.
- Shipping Fees: Depending on your sales volume and shipping methods.
These costs can add up, so it’s important to account for them when budgeting for your Shopify store. Here is more information on Regular Shopify Plans After the Trial.
Special Deal for Black-Owned Businesses
Shopify has an extra-special offer for Black-owned businesses:
- 120 days free (4 full months)
- Special training included
- One-on-one help
- Available in US, Canada, and UK
To qualify:
- Business must be at least 50% Black-owned
- Must be in an eligible country
- Must follow Shopify’s regular rules
Cool Features You Get in Your Trial
Your trial includes all these helpful tools:
Store Features:
- Online store builder
- Shopping cart
- Payment processing
- Inventory tracking
- Customer management
Marketing Tools:
- Email marketing
- Social media integration
- Discount codes
- SEO tools
- Blog platform
Support Features:
- 24/7 help
- Training videos
- Help center
- Community forum
How to Cancel if You Need To
Not sure Shopify is right for you? No problem! Here’s how to cancel:
- Go to Settings in your Shopify dashboard
- Click on “Plan”
- Choose “Cancel Trial”
- Tell them why you’re leaving
- Click “Deactivate Store”
Remember:
- Canceling is free
- You won’t be charged if you cancel in time
- You can always come back later
Tips for Success
Want to make the most of your Shopify trial? Try these tips:
1. Start With a Plan
- Know what you want to sell
- Have product info ready
- Plan your store layout
2. Use the Free Tools
- Try the AI writing helper
- Use the logo maker
- Test different store designs
3. Learn as You Go
- Watch tutorial videos
- Read the help guides
- Join the Shopify community
4. Get Ready for Sales
- Set up payment methods early
- Plan your shipping strategy
- Create return policies
Common Questions About Shopify’s Trial
Here are answers to questions many people ask:
Q: Do I need a credit card for the first 3 days?
A: No, you can start without one.
Q: Can I sell during the free trial?
A: Not in the first 3 days, but yes once you start the $1/month period.
Q: What happens after 3 months?
A: Regular pricing starts based on your chosen plan.
Q: Can I change plans later?
A: Yes, you can switch plans anytime.
Is Shopify Right for You?
Shopify might be perfect if you:
- Want to start selling online
- Need an easy-to-use platform
- Want all your store tools in one place
- Like having helpful support
It might not be best if you:
- Just want a simple blog
- Don’t plan to sell products
- Need a very complex website
Ready to Start?
Starting your Shopify journey is easy and almost risk-free with the current trial offer. You get:
- 3 days completely free
- 3 months for just $1 per month
- All the tools you need to start selling
Remember, this offer ends February 28, 2025. If you’re thinking about starting an online store, now’s a great time to try Shopify!
Final Tips for Your Shopify Journey
1. Start Simple
- Begin with a few products
- Use a clean, basic design
- Add more as you grow
2. Ask for Help
- Use Shopify’s support
- Join online communities
- Learn from other sellers
3. Plan Ahead
- Think about your goals
- Plan your budget
- Consider long-term costs
4. Take Action
- Don’t wait for perfect
- Start with what you have
- Improve as you go
Starting an online store might seem scary, but with Shopify’s current trial offer, you can try it out with very little risk. Take advantage of the free days and $1 months to learn, experiment, and build your dream store!
Thank you for taking the time to read my article “Shopify Free Trial 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Started for Just $1”
