Get started with an ecommerce platform
Get started with an ecommerce platform
Create a solid foundation for your online business.
Create a solid foundation for your online business.
Create a solid foundation for your online business.
Build your ecommerce business step by step
Launching an online store can lead to more sales, brand awareness, and customer loyalty. But it also takes research and smart decision making. Let’s begin with some basic considerations and go from there.
• Learn what to look for in your ecommerce platform
• Develop your shipping strategy to balance speed and cost
• Reduce costs and waste with proper packing techniques
• Boost sales and keep customers coming back with easy returns
• Download the latest holiday insights and ecommerce trends reports
• Get small business advice from your peers and industry experts
Start saving on shipping today
Open a free FedEx business account to get discounts on U.S. and international shipping. You can
also create shipments faster, order free FedEx Express® packaging, and more.
Open a free FedEx business account to get discounts on U.S. and international shipping. You can also create shipments faster, order free FedEx Express® packaging, and more.
Choose the right ecommerce platform
Flexibility. Fulfillment. Convenience. These are the things that go into a great online experience for your customers. And it all starts with choosing the right platform. Plus, your choice of platform can impact your sales, efficiency, and growth. Take the time to explore your options. In the end, you’ll save time while designing the ideal customer journey.
Each platform has a different combination of features like accounting, inventory control, fulfillment, and marketing. The difference is in the details, so search for the tools that make sense for your business’s needs—now and in the future.
Another way to choose a platform is to use the power of your peers. Dive into online community boards and customer reviews. These first-hand insights will help you understand what the platforms offer and how they perform.
We don’t recommend any specific platform. But some of the more popular ones are Shopify®, WooCommerce®, Magento®, BigCommerce®, and Volusion®.
Grow sales and inspire loyalty with ShopRunner® by FedEx. Become a ShopRunner member retailer to offer fast, free shipping and returns on your website.
Key considerations when picking an ecommerce platform
Platform pricing
Most platforms charge a monthly fee or are available on a quarterly or annual contract basis. Many platforms also charge for add-ons and apps.
Built-in shipping services
Most platforms have these, but the rates might not be the lowest. Save by opening a FedEx business
shipping account.
Most platforms have these, but the rates might not be the lowest. Save by opening a FedEx business shipping account.
Consider your long-term goals. Find out which features are included in each pricing tier before you
make a decision.
Integration with your other programs
You may want specific functions, like accounting or customer contact emails. Make sure the platform will integrate with them.
Hosting
Ensure the hosting provider is secure, reliable, and has good tech support. Website downtime can impact your revenue and reputation.
User-friendliness
Some platforms require more technical know-how than others. Make sure whoever’s in charge of maintaining your platform can handle it.
Plug-ins
Do you have multiple shipping accounts? Plug-ins like ShipStation® , ShippingEasy®, and Ordoro® put them on
one interface.
Do you have multiple shipping accounts? Plug-ins like ShipStation® , ShippingEasy®, and Ordoro® put them on one interface.
Payment processing
Double-check the platform is PCI (payment card industry) compliant. Look out for processing fees that can add to your costs.
Go for a platform that allows you to personalize templates and features. You want your brand to be front
and center.
Go for a platform that allows you to personalize templates and features. You want your brand to be front and center.
Ease of use
Consider how many products you’ll be listing. You want it to be straightforward for customers to browse, scroll, and search.
Security
Customers need reassurance that their information is safe. Your platform should support HTTPS/SSL protocols.
Features
Look for functionality that lets you offer things like loyalty programs, “save for later” functions, and customized recommendations.
Mobile
Your online shop has to look good on a phone and load quickly. And intuitive small-screen checkout is a must.
Communication
If you’re going to send emails or notifications from the platform, make sure those features are supported.
Social selling
Sites like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok allow you to sell directly from a customer’s feed. But the platform needs to integrate with them.
Search engine optimization (SEO)
The higher your search rankings, the more customers you’ll reach. Watch for platforms that enable SEO optimization.
Get expert support and advice
Use our self-services tools, chat with a live agent, or schedule a call. We’re here to discuss
everything from discount programs to product packaging.
Use our self-services tools, chat with a live agent, or schedule a call. We’re here to discuss everything from discount programs to product packaging.
More to explore in ecommerce
Ecommerce home | Choosing a platform | Shipping | Fulfillment | Integration | International | Resources
Offering store pickup | Holiday shipping trends