1. Pick a product with real margin
Before building anything, check that the product can earn a healthy margin after fees, shipping and ads. Use a profit margin calculator with realistic numbers. If margin is under 25 percent, ad costs will usually erase your profit.
2. Choose a platform
Hosted builders are fast to launch but charge monthly fees and limit design. A custom store gives full control and lower fees at scale. Decide based on how unique your checkout and catalogue need to be.
3. Set up payments and shipping
Use a trusted payment provider, show total prices including shipping, and state delivery times clearly. Surprise costs at checkout are the top reason shoppers abandon carts.
4. Get your first customers
Start with channels you control: WhatsApp, Instagram and email. Add a chatbot to answer common questions so you never lose a sale overnight. Then add search content to bring in free traffic over time.
Try our free Profit Margin Calculator.
Need help building it? Talk to MakeMyStore.