Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Understanding Shopify Domains
- Can You Change Your Shopify Domain?
- Changing Your Store's Primary Domain
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Have you recently considered changing your Shopify store's domain but found yourself puzzled about whether it's possible, and if so, how to go about it? You're not alone in this digital quandary. Changing a domain can feel like navigating uncharted waters, especially for those who are not particularly tech-savvy. This article aims to shed light on the process, making it clear and manageable for anyone looking to refresh their online presence. Whether you're rebranding, have found a more suitable domain name, or simply made a typo when first setting up your shop, this guide will provide you with the insights needed to make the change effortlessly. We'll explore the steps to successfully change your domain, the implications of making such a change, and tips for a seamless transition. By the end of this read, you'll be equipped with all the knowledge required to update your Shopify store's domain with confidence.
Understanding Shopify Domains
Before diving into the process of changing your Shopify domain, it's essential to understand what a Shopify domain is and the different types available. By default, Shopify assigns your store a domain in the format your-store-name.myshopify.com when you sign up. This default domain is functional but not exactly brand-friendly or memorable.
To establish a stronger online presence, most store owners opt for a custom domain that represents their brand more effectively, such as www.yourstorename.com. Custom domains can be purchased through Shopify directly or through third-party domain registrars like GoDaddy. Once acquired, you can set your custom domain as the primary domain for your Shopify store, ensuring that customers see your branded domain in their browser's address bar.
Can You Change Your Shopify Domain?
The short answer is yes, you can change your Shopify domain. However, there are nuances to consider. There's a difference between changing the name of a domain you already own and changing your store's domain to a different one. The name of a domain cannot be edited once purchased because you're acquiring ownership of that specific web address. If you want to use a new or different domain name, you will need to purchase the new domain and then update your Shopify store settings to reflect this change.
Changing Your Store's Primary Domain
Steps to Change Your Primary Domain in Shopify:
- Purchase Your New Domain: If you haven't already, buy the domain you wish to use from Shopify or a third-party registrar.
- Adding Your New Domain to Shopify: Once you own the new domain, you need to add it to your Shopify store. This can be done through the Shopify admin under the 'Domains' section. If the domain was purchased outside of Shopify, you’d need to configure the DNS settings to point to Shopify's servers.
- Set the New Domain as Primary: With the new domain added to your Shopify store, navigate to the 'Domains' section again and click on 'Change primary domain'. Select your new domain from the list and save your changes.
Important Considerations:
- URL Redirection: Changing your primary domain means that your store’s address in the web will change. Ensure to set up URL redirections where necessary to avoid broken links, especially if you've previously marketed your site under the old domain.
- SEO Implications: Changing your domain can temporarily affect your store's search engine ranking. Use 301 redirects and update your information in Google Search Console to mitigate these effects.
- Updating Your Branding: Ensure that all your marketing materials, business cards, and social media profiles reflect your new domain name.
FAQs
What happens to my old Shopify domain when I change to a new one?
Your old domain can still be connected to your store and redirect to your new primary domain. This ensures that customers attempting to visit your old URL are directed to your new domain.
Can I transfer a domain I bought from a third-party to Shopify?
Yes, most domains can be transferred to Shopify, which simplifies domain management by allowing you to control your domain settings from your Shopify admin. However, some domain extensions, like .fr domains, have specific restrictions that prevent transfer, though they can still be connected and used as your Shopify domain.
How long does it take for the domain change to take effect?
Domain changes, including DNS settings update and propagation across the internet, can take up to 48 hours but typically happen much faster.
Can I have multiple domains for my Shopify store?
Yes, you can add multiple domains to your Shopify store. However, only one can be set as the primary domain. Additional domains can be set up as redirects or alias domains.
Conclusion
Changing your Shopify domain is a straightforward process that can have a significant impact on your brand's online presence. By carefully selecting a new domain name that aligns with your brand identity and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth transition. Remember, the change doesn't stop with the technical switch in Shopify; make sure to update all your branding materials and communicate the change to your customers to maintain your business's continuity and reputation online. With a new domain, you're ready to open a fresh chapter for your online store, poised for greater brand recognition and success.
