This article outlines key considerations, common challenges, and essential best practices to evaluate before selecting Shopify as your e-commerce platform. Use this guide to make an informed decision and avoid unexpected issues later.

1. App Dependency and Hidden Costs

Shopify’s core platform is simple, but advanced functionality often requires the use of apps.

Many features that store owners assume are built-in—such as advanced product options, custom bundles, enhanced filtering, subscription systems, or specialised marketing tools—typically require third-party apps.

Impact to consider:

• Monthly app fees can stack quickly.

• Some apps charge based on usage, orders, or features.

• Multiple apps increase long-term operational costs.

Recommendation:
Identify every feature your store needs and check whether it is native or app-dependent. Calculate the projected subscription cost before you choose Shopify.

2. Performance Degradation from Too Many Apps

Each additional app adds scripts, styles, and external requests.

Stores that install numerous apps often experience reduced site speed, especially on mobile devices. Slower stores typically see higher bounce rates and lower conversions.

Impact to consider:

• Slower page load times

• Heavier product pages filled with unnecessary widgets

• Increased checkout friction

Recommendation:
Limit your store to essential apps only. Prefer lightweight, well-optimised apps or custom-built theme features when possible.

3. Scaling Challenges With Complex Catalogues or Logic

Shopify works well for simple to moderately complex stores, but advanced setups require a plan.

Stores that need custom pricing rules, B2B workflows, multi-location stock logic, large catalogues, or specialised checkout behaviour may face limitations without expensive apps or custom development.

Impact to consider:

• Workarounds using multiple apps

• Higher development overhead

• Operational inefficiencies

Recommendation:
If you expect complex workflows, analyse your business model early and determine whether Shopify can support your long-term architecture.

4. Theme Customisation Limits and Technical Requirements

Changing layouts, editing design, or customising the store beyond theme settings often requires coding.

Shopify themes are flexible but not fully drag-and-drop for advanced changes.

Impact to consider:

• Customisations may require Liquid, HTML, CSS, or JavaScript

• Smaller changes can break when switching themes

• Relying on external developers or freelancers may become necessary

Recommendation:
Ensure you are comfortable with basic theme edits or budget for ongoing technical assistance.

5. Importance of Keeping the Store Lightweight

Stores with fewer apps and simpler pages generally perform better.

High-performing stores often have minimal add-ons and rely heavily on native theme capabilities or custom-coded features.

Impact to consider:

• Better conversion rates

• Faster checkout experience

• Improved customer satisfaction

Recommendation:
Audit your site regularly and remove unnecessary apps or features. Keep the store clean, fast, and purposeful.

6. Costs Can Accumulate Before Launch

Many store owners subscribe to paid apps or themes long before going live.

This results in months of recurring charges without actual revenue.

Impact to consider:

• Wasted onboarding costs

• Increased financial pressure before launch

Recommendation:
Avoid purchasing paid apps, themes, or higher Shopify plans until your store is nearly ready to accept orders.

7. Focus on Checkout Flow and Mobile UX

Shopify’s checkout is optimised, but your overall funnel depends on your decisions.

Cluttered product pages, pop-ups, upsell widgets, and slow scripts negatively impact mobile users.

Impact to consider:

• Lower conversion rates

• Increased cart abandonment

• Poor customer experience

Recommendation:
Prioritise speed, clarity, and simplicity. Test your store thoroughly on mobile devices.

8. Ongoing Optimisation Is Required

Shopify is not a “set it and forget it” platform.

You must periodically tune performance, review apps, audit theme code, and update configurations.

Impact to consider:

• Regular maintenance

• Occasional refactoring of theme files

• Ongoing costs for optimisation

Recommendation:
Treat Shopify as an evolving system. Allocate time to maintain and improve it consistently.

Summary

Shopify is a powerful and user-friendly e-commerce platform, but it requires thoughtful planning and disciplined execution. Before choosing Shopify, ensure you understand:

• Which features require apps

• How app usage affects costs and performance

• Whether your business model needs custom logic

• The level of technical support you’ll need

• The importance of keeping your store lightweight

• How much effort is required for optimisation and maintenance

By considering these factors early, you can build a faster, more cost-efficient, and more scalable Shopify store from the beginning.