Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Understanding Your Shopify Store Name Vs. Domain
- Changing Your Shopify Store Name
- Can I Change My Shopify Domain Name?
- The Impact of Changing Your Store's Name and Domain on SEO
- Leveraging Shopify Apps to Smooth the Transition
- Conclusion
- FAQ Section
Introduction
Have you ever debated renaming your Shopify store but felt unsure about the process or the implications? Whether it's to rebrand, reflect an expanded product line, or simply because the initial choice doesn't excite you anymore, changing your store's name might seem like a daunting task. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of changing your Shopify store name and domain while also touching on how such changes might affect your SEO performance and what Shopify apps can help ease the transition. Let's dive in and unlock the potential of your Shopify store with a fresh identity!
Understanding Your Shopify Store Name Vs. Domain
Before making any changes, it's essential to differentiate between your Shopify store name and your domain name. The store name is the internal identifier for your shop, mainly used within the Shopify platform and support interactions. On the other hand, your domain name (or URL) is what customers type into their browser to find your store online. It's the face of your brand in the digital realm.
Changing Your Shopify Store Name
If you're looking to freshen up your brand's identity or adjust your store's name to better align with your evolving product range, Shopify makes it straightforward to do so. Here's how:
- Log into your Shopify admin panel.
- Navigate to the "Settings" section, then click on "General."
- In the "Store details" area, you'll find the "Store name" field.
- Enter your new desired store name.
- Save your changes.
Remember, changing your store name won't automatically update your myshopify.com domain. This change is primarily for branding and display purposes across your store's pages.
Can I Change My Shopify Domain Name?
While your internal store name can be changed with ease, your primary myshopify.com domain name, assigned by Shopify when you first create your store, remains the same. But don't worry, you're not stuck with it forever. The solution is to purchase a custom domain name either directly through Shopify or from third-party providers. Once acquired, you can set your new domain as the primary domain for your store, ensuring a seamless match between your store's name and its online address.
The Impact of Changing Your Store's Name and Domain on SEO
A well-executed rebrand, including a name and domain change, can breathe new life into your store but tread carefully to protect your hard-earned SEO standings. Implement 301 redirects from your old URLs to the new ones to preserve link equity and inform search engines of your change. Additionally, update your store and any external listings (social media profiles, Google My Business, etc.) with your new name and domain to maintain consistency across the web.
Leveraging Shopify Apps to Smooth the Transition
Adjusting to a new store name and domain doesn't have to be a solo journey. Various Shopify apps can help manage redirects, update SEO settings, and even assist in marketing your rebranded store. Tools like "Easy Redirects" for managing bulk URL redirects or "Plug in SEO" for keeping your store's SEO in check can be invaluable during this period of change.
Conclusion
Changing your Shopify store name and domain is more than a cosmetic update; it's an opportunity to realign your business with your brand's evolution and vision. While the process requires careful planning, especially concerning SEO, Shopify's flexible platform and a plethora of supportive apps make it achievable. Embrace the chance for a fresh start and let your Shopify store’s new name be the beacon for your brand's future success.
FAQ Section
Q: How often can I change my Shopify store name?
A: You can change your store name as often as you like. However, for the sake of brand consistency and customer recognition, it's advisable to keep changes to a minimum.
Q: Will changing my store name affect my existing customers?
A: Directly, no. But, it's important to communicate the change to your customers to avoid confusion. Use email newsletters or social media announcements to inform them.
Q: Can I change my myshopify.com domain name to match my new store name?
A: No, your myshopify.com subdomain cannot be altered once set. However, you can purchase a custom domain and set it as your store's primary domain.
Q: Does changing my domain affect my SEO?
A: Yes, changes can affect your SEO standings temporarily. Utilize 301 redirects to minimize this impact and update all references to your new domain promptly.
Q: Are there any Shopify apps that can help manage the changes?
A: Absolutely. Apps for managing 301 redirects, SEO adjustments, and marketing your rebranded store can significantly help. Explore the Shopify App Store for tools suited to your needs.
